Homestyle Beef and Vegetable Casserole Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting casserole straight out of the oven to bring the family together. This Homestyle Beef and Vegetable Casserole is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or weekend gatherings. Packed with seasoned ground beef, nutritious vegetables, tender potatoes, and a creamy sauce, this dish hits all the marks for flavor and comfort. The optional cheese topping adds a golden, gooey layer that’s sure to win over everyone at the table.

Not only is this casserole incredibly filling, but it’s also budget-friendly and versatile. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking to use up leftovers, this dish adapts easily to what you have on hand. Let’s dive into how you can make this beloved classic at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef 🍖
• 1 medium onion, chopped 🧅
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.) 🥕🌽
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced 🥔
• 1 cup beef broth 🍲
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup 🍄
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess) 🥛
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 🥢
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 🌿
• Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping) 🧀
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for cooking) 🧈

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Season and Add Flavor
To the browned beef, add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Then mix in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream (if using), followed by the beef broth. Mix well until everything is incorporated and simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes and frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients with the sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the potatoes to begin softening.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly with a spatula. If using cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Low-carb version: Substitute diced cauliflower or turnips for the potatoes.
• Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Extra creamy: Double the sour cream or add a block of softened cream cheese.
• Top with mashed potatoes: For a shepherd’s pie twist, layer mashed potatoes on top before baking.
• Different veggies: Use fresh or canned vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Cooking Note:

This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 10 extra minutes to the covered baking time if baking straight from the fridge. It also freezes well—assemble and freeze before baking, then thaw overnight and bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Pair with a simple cucumber and tomato salad for freshness.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for extra flavor.

Tips:

• Don’t skip pre-cooking the beef – it helps reduce grease and enhances flavor.
• Dice potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
• Use sharp cheddar for a bold, cheesy finish.
• Want a crunchy topping? Add crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
• Double the batch and freeze one for later—perfect for meal prep!

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

45–50 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour – 1 hour 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx. based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 460
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 780mg

Note: Nutritional values will vary depending on specific ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire casserole up to a day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready.

Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely. You can freeze it before or after baking. Be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. For best results, thaw before reheating.

What kind of beef should I use?
Lean ground beef (85–90%) is best. You can also use ground turkey or chicken.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, but you may need to sauté them for a few minutes beforehand to ensure they cook fully in the oven.

What cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can work beautifully.

Conclusion

This Homestyle Beef and Vegetable Casserole is the definition of cozy comfort food. It’s rich, savory, and easy to customize with what you have in your pantry or freezer. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals for the week, this one-pan dish delivers warmth and flavor in every bite. Make it tonight and watch it become a regular in your home-cooked meal rotation!

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