Name: Beef Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h 15 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs stewing beef or chuck roast, cut into chunks; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 medium potatoes, cubed; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried; 1 sprig fresh rosemary or 1/2 tsp dried; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Beef Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish made with tender beef, vegetables, and a savory sauce, all slow-cooked or baked until rich and flavorful. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up from the inside out, making it a perfect choice for family dinners, cold weather, or any time you want a satisfying, home-cooked classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deep, rich flavors that develop during slow cooking.
Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
Versatile—can be made on the stovetop, in the oven, or in a slow cooker.
Leftovers taste even better the next day.
Comfort food at its best, with minimal hands-on time.

Beef Casserole

Ingredients

Stewing beef or chuck roast, cut into chunks
Olive oil
Onion
Garlic
Carrots
Celery
Potatoes
Tomato paste
Beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Fresh thyme or rosemary
Bay leaf
Salt and pepper

Directions

Season beef with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Sear beef in batches until browned on all sides, then transfer to a plate.
Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot, cooking until softened. Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute.
Pour in beef broth , scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
Return beef to the pot along with potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, and bay leaf.
Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for 2–2½ hours, or until beef is tender. For oven baking, cook at 325°F (165°C) for the same amount of time.
Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 and takes about 20 minutes of prep time plus 2–2½ hours of cooking.

Variations

Add mushrooms for extra earthiness.
Use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or chili powder.
Thicken sauce by simmering uncovered at the end or adding a cornstarch slurry.
Swap potatoes for pasta or rice, adding them near the end of cooking.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed. This casserole also freezes well for up to 3 months—thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef and vegetables first, then cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Can I skip searing the beef?

You can, but searing adds a richer flavor and better texture.

What’s the best cut of beef for casserole?

Chuck roast, stewing beef, or brisket works best for tenderness.

Can I make it without potatoes?

Yes, just add more vegetables or serve with rice or bread.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, add them during the last 30–40 minutes of cooking.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered or stir in a cornstarch slurry at the end.

Can I use ground beef instead?

Yes, but reduce cooking time since ground beef cooks much faster.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

What should I serve it with?

Crusty bread, rice, or a green salad make great sides.

Conclusion

Beef Casserole is a timeless, comforting dish that’s full of flavor and easy to make. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory sauce, it’s a satisfying meal that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation.

Jane