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### Instructions
1. **Preheat Oven:**
Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
2. **Cook the Filling:**
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until soft. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in carrot, zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. **Season and Simmer:**
Add tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes to let flavors develop. Remove from heat.
4. **Prepare the Topping:**
In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, melted butter (and cheese if using). Mix until the texture is like damp sand.
5. **Assemble the Casserole:**
Pour the meat and veggie mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the sesame topping over the top.
6. **Bake:**
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crisp. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
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### Tips & Variations
* **Go Vegetarian:** Swap the minced meat for lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
* **Spice It Up:** Add chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for extra depth.
* **Add Grains:** Layer cooked rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes under the filling for a heartier dish.
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### Serving Suggestions
Pair it with a crisp green salad or a simple yogurt-garlic sauce on the side. Leftovers make a great filling for wraps or stuffed bell peppers the next day.
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**Savory Minced Meat and Vegetable Casserole with Sesame Topping** is the ultimate blend of cozy and creative. With its rich flavors, hidden veggies, and irresistible crunch, it’s bound to become a weeknight staple you actually look forward to.
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Would you like this turned into a printable recipe, Pinterest pin, or meal-prep version? Just let me know!
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