CREOLE TOMATO CASSEROLE

Creole Tomato Casserole
Makes 6 servings

3 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups chopped onions
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1 cup chopped bell peppers
1 cup chopped celery
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 pound ground beef (or 1 pound sweet Italian sausage remove from the casing and crumbled)
6 Creole tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
1/2 teaspoon dried sweet basil
1 cup fine breadcrumbs
6 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

In a large heavy pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add the onions, green onions, bell pepper, celery and garlic. Cook, stirring, for 8 to 10 minutes, or until soft and golden. Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook, stirring often, until brown. Add the tomatoes, salt, cayenne, oregano and basil. Cook, uncovered, over medium-low fire, stirring occasionally, for one hour. Skim off any oil that rises to the surface.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Pour the mixture into a baking dish.  Sprinkle the top with the breadcrumbs, then drizzle with the butter. Sprinkle the top with the cheese. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese melts.