Slow Cooker Beef Casserole Recipe
Are you a fan of the delicious aroma of a beef casserole simmering in a slow cooker? If so, then you’ll be pleased to discover how simple it is to make this classic dish in your own home!
With just a few ingredients, your slow cooker can craft a delicious and hearty meal that your whole family will enjoy. Read on for the details:
Traditional history: Beef casserole has been a popular dish for generations, with variations found in cuisines around the world. Its slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and comforting meal.
Ingredients: To make a beef casserole, you’ll need ingredients such as beef chunks, onions, carrots, potatoes, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and a blend of herbs and spices. These ingredients can be easily found at your local grocery store.
Procedure: Start by browning the beef chunks in a skillet to enhance their flavor. Then, transfer the beef to the slow cooker and add the onions, carrots, potatoes, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs and spices. Stir everything together and set the slow cooker to low heat. Let the casserole cook for several hours until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Timing tips: The cooking time for a beef casserole in a slow cooker can vary depending on the size of the beef chunks and the heat setting of your slow cooker. Generally, it takes around 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat. It’s best to check the beef for tenderness before serving.
Final thoughts: Making a beef casserole in a slow cooker is a simple and convenient way to enjoy a delicious and comforting meal. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and the beef to become tender. Serve the casserole with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Traditional History
Beef casserole has been a classic dish for centuries. The earliest known reference to it appears in a 15th-century French cookbook, which contains recipes for both beef and vegetable casseroles.
By the 18th century, beef casserole had gained immense popularity in Britain. It had become a favorite among many homes in Europe by the 19th century.
Nowadays, slow cooker beef casserole is a well-loved dish across the globe. Its timeless combination of succulent meat and vegetables cooked in a flavorful stock makes it a timeless classic enjoyed by all generations.
Ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients for this savory dish, including diced onion, carrots, mushrooms, red wine, 2 lbs chuck roast, 1 large onion, 4 cloves garlic, 2 cups beef broth, parsnips, turnips or rutabagas.
Red wine is essential to the casserole, as it adds a great depth of flavor.
Once all the ingredients are ready, it’s time to begin prepping for the dish!
Method
Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F.
Now, it’s time to assemble your slow cooker beef casserole.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add some oil or butter. Once hot, add the onion and garlic and cook until fragrant.
Toss in the ground beef and season with salt and pepper to taste. When the meat is cooked through, drain off any excess fat.
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, thyme leaves, bay leaves, potatoes and carrots into the skillet with the beef mixture.
Lower heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes before transferring everything to a buttered baking dish or slow cooker insert.
Finally, pour beef broth over the ingredients in the baking dish or slow cooker insert; cover with foil or lid if using an oven-safe baking dish (or simply use your slow cooker lid).
Bake for 2 hours at 350°F or cook on low for 8 hours in a slow cooker before serving warm!
Timing Tips
Keeping a close eye on your casserole while it cooks is essential for achieving the perfect dish. Timing is paramount for a delicious slow cooker beef casserole, so here are some tips for getting it just right: | Time Needed |
---|---|
Prep | 10 mins |
Cooking | 4-8 hrs |
Total | 4-8 hrs 10 mins |
For best results, set your slow cooker to a low heat and cook for 8 hours. This will ensure that all of the ingredients are cooked through, but not overdone. If you’re short on time, set the heat to high and check on the casserole after 4 hours. Always consider the size of your slow cooker pot – larger pots may take longer than smaller ones. Additionally, inspect your casserole an hour or two before it is due to be finished – this will give you the opportunity to add more time if needed.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve followed the recipe and set the timer, you can sit back and look forward to a scrumptious meal!
This slow cooker beef casserole dish is sure to be a hit among all your family members.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to seep into the meat and vegetables for a more intense taste.
If you let it cook for longer, the beef and veggies will be more succulent and tender.
Serve it over steaming mashed potatoes or rice for an incredible dinner!
Take pride in the effort you put in to make a special meal and savor every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Other Types of Meats Can I Use in This Recipe?
You could try using other cuts of beef, like brisket or chuck roast. Alternatively, try substituting pork, chicken, turkey, or even lamb for a delicious twist on the classic casserole.
Are There Any Substitutions for the Listed Ingredients?
Yes, you can make substitutions for the ingredients. For example, use pork instead of beef or replace vegetables with your favorites. Try something new!
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven Instead of a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make this recipe in the oven. Just adjust the cooking time and temperature according to your needs. Enjoy!
Is This Recipe Suitable for Vegetarians?
No, this recipe is not suitable for vegetarians. Unfortunately, it contains beef which cannot be substituted with a vegetarian-friendly ingredient.
Can I Freeze This Casserole After Cooking?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole after cooking. However, it’s best to cool it completely before storing in an airtight container. Enjoy the delicious leftovers!