Hearty and Comforting Recipe
This Beef & Vegetable Casserole is the perfect dish for when you need a hearty, satisfying meal. It combines tender beef with a variety of vegetables, all baked in a rich, savory sauce. The casserole is comforting, filling, and easy to prepare, making it a great option for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or stew beef, cubed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium if preferred)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheesy topping)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef (or stew beef) to the pan, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat, if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add Onions and Garlic: To the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add Carrots and Potatoes: Add the carrots and potatoes to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a large baking dish.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in the green beans, corn, and peas. Add dried thyme and rosemary, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the casserole mixture. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If you’re adding cheese, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the casserole with fresh parsley and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad.
Why You’ll Love This Beef & Vegetable Casserole:
- Comforting and Hearty: This casserole is packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce that brings everything together.
- One-Dish Meal: All the ingredients are combined in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your preferences. You can also use ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This casserole is great for meal prep, and you can easily store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for later.
Tips for the Best Beef & Vegetable Casserole:
- Brown the Beef Well: Don’t skip the browning step; it adds depth of flavor to the casserole.
- Use Sturdy Vegetables: Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes hold up well during baking, making them perfect for this casserole.
- Add Some Spice: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the sauce.
Conclusion:
This Beef & Vegetable Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a savory sauce all come together in one delicious dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or preparing ahead for busy days, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.