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1
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
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2
In a large pan on medium-high heat, add the oil.
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3
When the oil begins to swirl, add the beef, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, a pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper.
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4
Cook until the meat is browned, 6 to 8 minutes.
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5
Stir in the tomato paste and saute for a few minutes to intensify the flavor.
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6
Add the stock and bring to a simmer.
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7
Season again and remove the mixture to a bowl with a slotted spoon, leaving the fat in the pan.
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8
In the same pan, add the onions and cook until almost tender.
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9
Then add the carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, a pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper.
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10
Cook, tossing, until the vegetables are tender but still a bit crunchy, 6 to 8 minutes.
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11
Remove from the heat.
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12
In the bottom of a 13-by-9-inch casserole dish in this order, layer half of the beef mixture, pressing it down to level it, and then sprinkle half of the cheese evenly over the beef.
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13
Pour the remaining half of the beef over the cheese and press down to level as well.
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14
Add the vegetables, followed by the remaining cheese; press to level.
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15
Top with the tater tots in a neat row like little soldiers.
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16
Sprinkle the top with paprika and bake until the edges on the tots turn golden brown, 25 minutes.
