Hearty Beef and Vegetable Casserole

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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This Hearty Beef and Vegetable Casserole is your ticket to a comforting, satisfying meal that brings warmth to your table. Packed with nutritious vegetables and topped with melty cheddar cheese, it's a dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is easy to prepare.

Ingredients for Hearty Beef and Vegetable Casserole

Ground beef forms the hearty base of this casserole, providing a rich and savory flavor. Onion and garlic are essential aromatics that enhance the overall taste. The red bell pepper adds a hint of sweetness and vibrant color, while the carrots and green beans introduce freshness and crunch. Russet potatoes are chosen for their creamy texture when cooked. The diced tomatoes and tomato paste create a robust sauce, accented by dried thyme and oregano for an herby depth. A splash of beef broth helps meld the flavors together, and the finishing touch of shredded cheddar cheese brings gooey, cheesy goodness that’s irresistible.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a deeper flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of red wine before adding the vegetables.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
  • Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Cut veggies uniformly for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and crusty bread to mop up the sauce. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top before serving. A glass of red wine can also complement the hearty flavors of this dish nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking directly from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
What if I don't have all the vegetables listed?
Feel free to substitute with what you have on hand—zucchini, peas, or corn can be great alternatives.

Hearty Beef and Vegetable Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This gives you ample time to prepare the casserole while the oven reaches the right temperature. Next, grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat, adding the ground beef. As it cooks, break it apart with a spatula until it's browned all over. This step is crucial for developing flavor.

Once the beef is nicely browned, toss in the onion and garlic. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent, releasing that irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen. Now, stir in the red bell pepper, carrots, and green beans. Let them cook for about 5 minutes to soften a bit.

Add the cubed potatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, oregano, and a splash of beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for 10 minutes until it slightly thickens.

Transfer everything into a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You'll know it's done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid scalding your tongue.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prepping.
  • Loaded with veggies and protein for a balanced meal.
  • Cheesy, savory, and full of comforting flavors.
  • Minimal cleanup with a one-dish wonder.

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup green beans, chopped
2 cups russet potatoes, cubed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 cup beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the bell pepper, carrots, and green beans; cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Add the potatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, oregano, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

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