Patchwork Casserole

In a large skillet, brown ground beef until no longer pink, breaking up with a spoon; drain fat. Add green peppers and onion; saute until tender. Add potatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, salt, basil and pepper; blend well. Spoon half of meat and potato mixture into a 13x9-inch baking dish or two 1 1/2-quart casseroles. Cover with half of the cheese. Top with remaining meat and potato mixture. Cover with aluminum foil. Bake at 350!F. for 45 minutes. Remove foil. Cut remaining cheese into decorative shapes. Arrange cheese in a patchwork design on top. Let stand 5 minutes or until cheese melts.