When the week gets busy and you're looking for a hearty, nutritious meal to feed the family, nothing beats a savory beef and mushroom casserole. Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also easy to prepare and perfect for healthy eating. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a busy parent looking for a wholesome meal, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Pantry Staples:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Optional: ¼ cup (60ml) red wine for depth of flavor
Preparation Steps
- Prep the Beef:
- Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Cook the Mushrooms:
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet.
- Cook for another 5 minutes until they release their moisture and become tender.
Assembly and Baking
- Combine Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the seared beef, cooked vegetables, and mushrooms in a large mixing bowl.
- Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and optional red wine.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the mixture, then stir well to combine.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
- Spread it out evenly, ensuring the beef and vegetables are well-distributed.
- Bake:
- Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Bake in the oven for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your beef and mushroom casserole hot, with a side of fresh green salad to add a touch of crispness to your meal.
- Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the rich, flavorful sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage:
- Allow the casserole to cool completely.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating:
- To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
- Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Enjoy this comforting beef and mushroom casserole, packed with nutrients and bursting with flavors. It's the perfect meal to end a busy day on a high note!
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