Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. (James 1:17)

Patchwork Casserole

2 lbs. ground beef

2 cups chopped bell pepper

1 cup chopped onion

2 lbs. frozen hash browns

2 (8-oz.) cans tomato sauce

1 cup water

1 (6-oz.) can tomato paste

1 t. salt

½ t. dried basil

¼ t. black pepper

1 lb. American Cheese, thinly sliced


Cook and stir beef in large skillet over medium heat until crumbled and brown (about 10 minutes); drain.  Add bell pepper and onion; sauté until soft, about 4 minutes.  Stir in all remaining ingredients except cheese.  Spoon half the meat mixture into 13x9x2” baking pan or 3 quart baking dish; top with half the cheese.  Spoon remaining meat mixture  evenly on top of cheese.  Cover pan with foil.  Bake in preheated 350º oven for 45 minutes.  Cut remaining cheese into decorative shapes; place on top of casserole.  Let stand, loosely covered, until cheese melts, about 5 minutes.  MAKES 8-10 SERVINGS.