Easy Beef and Mushroom Casserole for Busy Weeknights

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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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

1. 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.

2. Layer the Casserole:

• Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
• Spread it out evenly, ensuring the beef and vegetables are well-distributed.

3. 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!