Basic beef casserole

This basic beef casserole features tender beef simmered with fresh vegetables and enriched with red wine and beef broth. It's a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family dinners or meal planning.

26 Dec 2025
Cook time 120 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
2 lb beef
2 onions
1 stalk celery
2 garlic cloves
2 carrots
2 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
1 tbsp tomato puree
1 cup red wine
2 cups beef broth
1 can canned tomatoes
2 tbsp dried oregano
Basic beef casserole

A basic beef casserole is a gratifying blend of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors. It is the ultimate comfort food that's perfect for any cozy dinner. This recipe is both hearty and wholesome, suitable for feeding the entire family or preparing ahead for meal planning. Here's how to make a delicious, no-fuss beef casserole that everyone will love.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Prepare the Dutch Oven:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the Beef:
- Add the beef chunks to the Dutch oven. Sear the meat on all sides until it's nicely browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same Dutch oven, add the chopped onions, sliced celery, minced garlic, and sliced carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become tender.
5. Add the Flour and Tomato Puree:
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat the vegetables and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato puree until it is well combined with the vegetables.
6. Deglaze with Wine:
- Pour in 1 cup of red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the Dutch oven. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, letting the wine reduce slightly.
7. Combine Ingredients:
- Return the browned beef to the Dutch oven. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and add the canned tomatoes (including their juices).
8. Season and Simmer:
- Add 2 tablespoons of dried oregano to the mixture. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
9. Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
10. Serve:
- Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your basic beef casserole with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad!

This basic beef casserole is a perfect recipe for both beginning and experienced cooks who appreciate a simple and flavorful home-cooked meal. With just a few key ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll have a comforting dish that's sure to please. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or savor the leftovers for a quick and satisfying meal later on.

Basic beef casserole FAQ:

What temperature should I bake the beef casserole at?

Bake the beef casserole at 325°F (160°C) for optimal cooking and flavor infusion.

How long should I bake the beef casserole for?

Bake the casserole for about 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Can I substitute the red wine in the recipe?

Yes, you can substitute red wine with additional beef broth for a non-alcoholic version. However, using wine adds depth to the flavor.

How should I store leftovers from the beef casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

What size Dutch oven is recommended for this recipe?

A large Dutch oven, typically 5 to 7 quarts, is recommended to accommodate the ingredients and allow for even cooking.

Tips:

- Use a well-marbled cut of beef for better flavor and tenderness.

- Sear the beef before adding it to the casserole to enhance its depth of flavor.

- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best taste.

- Let the casserole simmer slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.

- If you prefer a thicker casserole, let the sauce reduce uncovered during the last 15-20 minutes of simmering.

- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to customize the dish to your liking.

- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 600kcal
Protein 50g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 7g
Fat 36g

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