Looking for a heartwarming dinner that’s both flavorful and easy to make? Look no further than our Baked Beef and Asparagus Casserole. This dish combines tender, savory beef with crispy asparagus, all enveloped in a creamy sauce, making it the perfect main course for family dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 cups cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Equipments
- Oven
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula
How to Make Baked Beef and Asparagus Casserole – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing and trimming the asparagus. Cut them into 2-inch pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Peel and chop the onion finely and mince the garlic. Measure out all other ingredients and have them ready, as this will streamline the cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Introduce the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, ensuring no pink spots remain.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the browned beef mixture with cream of mushroom soup. Add the asparagus pieces and mix well. Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top cheese layer is melted and golden brown, and the asparagus is tender.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully and helps make serving stress-free. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious creation with family or friends.
How to Serve Baked Beef and Asparagus Casserole
Serve the casserole hot alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread. This dish is versatile enough to complement various side dishes, allowing you to get creative based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For extra flavor, consider adding some herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the beef mixture. You can also swap out the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a homemade sauce if you prefer a different texture or flavor.
High-Protein Delight: Amplify Your Casserole with Extra Protein!
To make this recipe a high-protein powerhouse, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas into the casserole. These additions will not only elevate the protein content but also add a unique texture and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of crispy bacon on top before baking will add an irresistible crunch and a smoky depth of flavor.
Low Carb Whisper: Make It Lean and Green
If you’re sticking to a low carb diet, this casserole is your new best friend. To keep it low carb, consider replacing the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade low-carb cream sauce made from heavy cream and broth. You might also experiment by adding in some spinach or zucchini to enhance the nutritional value without increasing the carb count significantly.
Storage Instructions
To store this casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen asparagus? Yes, you can use frozen asparagus, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the dish to prevent excess moisture.
- What other cheeses can I use? You can use mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles. Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste preferences.
- Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it uncooked. Bake it the next day, adjusting the cooking time as needed since it will be cold.
- Can I substitute the beef with another protein? Indeed, ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives that can seamlessly replace beef in this recipe.
The Final Serve: Your Turn to Shine in the Kitchen!
Now that you know all the secrets to creating this delicious Baked Beef and Asparagus Casserole, it’s time to make it your own! Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or opt for a protein-boosted or low-carb version, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and let us know in the comments how it turned out!