Hearty Beef Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a Hearty Beef Casserole. This dish is a timeless classic, packed with tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or meal prep, this casserole is as satisfying as it is easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and filling: A complete meal in one dish.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices.
Hearty beef casserole
This Hearty Beef Casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal featuring tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce, topped with melted cheese and breadcrumbs. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s easy to make and customizable with your favorite ingredients. Ready in just over 2 hours, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1.5 lbs (700g) beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the BeefPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides, then transfer to a casserole dish.
- Cook the VegetablesIn the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.Add the carrots, celery, mushrooms, and potatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly softened.Transfer the vegetables to the casserole dish with the beef.
- Assemble the CasseroleIn a bowl, mix the beef broth, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and smoked paprika.Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables in the casserole dish. Stir to combine.Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake and ServeCover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 1.5 hours.Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving.2. Can I use a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.3. What can I use instead of beef?
You can substitute beef with lamb, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
Special Notes
- Beef selection: Use chuck or stewing beef for the best results.
- Vegetable swaps: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes for variety.
- Cheese options: Try mozzarella or parmesan instead of cheddar.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to impress.
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