Welcome to the ultimate comfort dish—the Beef Casserole Recipe that will warm your heart and soothe your soul. This savory casserole is perfect for those chilly nights when you crave a meal that’s both hearty and easy to prepare. Join me as we journey through crafting this delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs of beef chuck, cubed
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup of green peas
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Equipments
- Large oven-safe casserole dish
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stove and oven
How to Make Beef Casserole Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Turn on your oven to 350°F (175°C) to start preheating. A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking and helps to develop the rich flavors of the casserole. It’s all about getting those layers of flavors perfectly melded together.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cubed beef chuck and sear all sides until browned. Browning the beef locks in moisture and gives the meat a delightful texture. Transfer the browned beef to the casserole dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot with residual beef flavor, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent. Toss in the diced carrots and chopped celery. Cook the mixture until the vegetables are tender. This step is critical in building layers of flavor that create a satisfying depth in your casserole.
Step 4: Mix the Broth
Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, salt, and pepper into the vegetable mix. Pour the beef broth over the vegetables and give everything a good stir. Bring it to a simmer to blend the flavors before moving on to the next step.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Add the sautéed vegetables and broth combination to the oven-safe casserole dish containing the beef. Mix in the potato chunks. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce and Add Peas
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Remove the casserole from the oven after 1 hour, add the slurry, and gently stir in the green peas. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 15 minutes. The cornstarch slurry will thicken the sauce, while the peas add a sweet pop.
How to Serve Beef Casserole Recipe
Once the beef casserole is done, let it rest for about 10 minutes so that the flavors can settle in. Serve this hearty dish hot, perhaps garnished with some fresh thyme or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Be sure to use a good quality beef chuck as it slowly tenderizes throughout the cooking process. Customize your casserole by adding mushrooms or swapping out green peas for green beans for a different texture. Ensure your dish is fully cooked by occasionally checking the tenderness of the meat and potatoes.
Protein-Packed Version: High Protein Beef Casserole
Want an even more robust protein boost? Consider adding black beans and kidney beans to your casserole. These legumes will not only increase the protein content but also add unique flavors and textural contrasts. It’s a simple way to sustain energy levels throughout your busy day!
To further amp up the protein, sprinkle in some cheese towards the end of baking. An aged cheddar layer over the top can create a deliciously golden crust that melts beautifully.
Low-Carb Delight: Slimmed Down Beef Casserole
If you’re watching your carbs, this Low-Carb Beef Casserole Version is a savory delight. Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets, keeping the dish hearty without the extra carbs. You’ll still get that satisfying filling feeling, perfect for low-carb diets like keto.
Moreover, leave out the cornstarch thickener. Instead, allow the casserole to reduce naturally in the oven by baking it slightly longer. This version offers all the taste with less guilt, making it ideal for health-conscious foodies.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Beef casserole also freezes well—transfer it to freezer-safe packaging, and it can last for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave before serving.
FAQs
- Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker? Yes, you can prepare this recipe in a slow cooker. Sauté the beef and vegetables first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
- What’s the best type of beef for this recipe? Beef chuck is recommended for its flavor and tenderness. It becomes soft and juicy when stewed over time.
- How can I add a spicy kick to this dish? To spice up the beef casserole, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth? While it’s possible to substitute chicken broth, using beef broth enhances the flavor profile tailored to the beef casserole.
- Is it necessary to brown the beef before baking? Yes, browning the beef caramelizes its surface, locking in juices and enriching the overall taste.
Conclusion: Share the Love of Beef Casserole
This beef casserole recipe is like a warm hug on a cold day, radiating comfort and flavor. Whether enjoyed by the fireplace or shared during a gathering, this casserole is a masterpiece of home-cooked goodness. If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends or family and don’t forget to leave a comment on how yours turned out!
Beef Casserole Recipe
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the beef cubes in olive oil. Set the beef aside in a casserole dish.
- Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Add tomato paste, thyme, salt, pepper, and broth. Simmer.
- Combine all into a casserole dish with potatoes. Bake for 1 hour.
- Mix cornstarch with water, add to dish along with peas. Bake for 15 more minutes.