Looking for a dish that brings together tender beef and colorful vegetables in a comforting bake? This chopped beef casserole is just the answer. It’s the perfect meal for those busy weekdays when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Imagine a bubbling dish filled with succulent chopped beef, aromatic herbs, and a medley of vegetables, all crowned with a golden layer of cheese. The blend of flavors creates a satisfying dish that pleases everyone at the table, from kids to adults. And the best part? It’s easy to prepare and requires minimal clean-up!
This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a taste experience that combines savory and hearty flavors. Perfect for serving leftovers too, as it tastes even better the next day.
Overview of Chopped Beef Casserole
This dish is a delightful blend of tender chopped beef and vibrant vegetables enveloped in a creamy sauce. The bubbling casserole emerges from the oven, featuring a golden-brown cheesy top that’s irresistible.
As it bakes, the ingredients meld together, creating a warm and inviting aroma that fills the kitchen. This casserole is not just about flavors; it’s also about the wholesome ingredients that provide nourishment, making it a go-to for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The foundation of any casserole lies in its ingredients. In this dish, the choice of chopped beef adds a rich, hearty touch. Fresh vegetables, including carrots, green beans, and corn, contribute color and texture, enhancing the overall appeal.
The creamy sauce binds all components together, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Topping it with shredded cheddar cheese not only offers a savory dimension but also creates that coveted golden crust that anyone would love to dig into.
Preparation Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, start by prepping your ingredients efficiently. Chop your vegetables and have your beef ready before you begin. Browning the beef in a skillet enhances its flavor, while sautéing the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness.
Mixing the sauce in a separate bowl allows for even distribution of flavors. Ensure that the beef and vegetable mixture is well-coated before transferring it to the casserole dish. This step is key for a cohesive taste throughout the meal.
Baking to Perfection
Baking the casserole requires attention. Covering it with foil initially traps moisture, preventing the dish from drying out. After the first 25-30 minutes, removing the foil allows the cheese to melt beautifully and develop that appealing golden crust.
Keep an eye on the oven; the bubbling cheese is a good indicator that your casserole is nearing readiness. A few extra minutes can make a difference, so be prepared to adjust your cooking time slightly based on your oven’s performance.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole shines on its own, but it can also be complemented with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad for a crisp contrast. The salad can add brightness and balance to the rich flavors of the casserole.
If you want to make the meal even heartier, serve it over a bed of cooked rice or egg noodles. This adds texture and helps soak up the flavorful sauce, creating a fulfilling dining experience.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! This casserole often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating can be done in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover it to retain moisture and heat until warm throughout. Enjoying this dish over multiple days makes it not just a meal, but a comforting staple for busy weeks ahead.
Chopped Beef and Vegetable Casserole Recipe
This satisfying casserole features chopped beef mixed with a variety of vegetables, all enveloped in a rich sauce and topped with melted cheese. The dish offers a well-rounded flavor profile, with each bite being both comforting and fulfilling.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chopped beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3 cups cooked rice or egg noodles (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the chopped beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until soft. Stir in carrots, green beans, and corn, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well, then add the beef and vegetable mixture to the bowl, stirring until evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the beef mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot on its own or over rice or egg noodles for a complete meal.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
