Pastelón

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 ripe plantains
• ½ yellow onion
• 3 garlic cloves
• ½ red bell pepper
• 8 oz tomato sauce
• ½ cup beef broth
• ¼ cup olives, pimento-stuffed (optional)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 tbsp adobo seasoning
• 1 packet sazón with annatto
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 cup vegetable oil

Steps

1. Peel plantains and slice lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick planks. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry plantain slices in batches until golden brown on both sides, then remove and drain on paper towels.
2. In a separate large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the beef. Cook until vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato sauce, beef broth, adobo seasoning, sazón, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional olives. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange half of the fried plantain slices in a single layer on the bottom of the dish.
6. Spread the seasoned ground beef mixture evenly over the plantain layer. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the beef.
7. Top with the remaining plantain slices, forming a second layer. Cover with the remaining shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.