29 Nov 2025
Cook time 165 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil
5 bacon strips
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 leek
2 cups mushrooms
2 lb beef
2 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup red wine
1 tbsp fresh thyme
3 bay leafs
salt & pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley
Enjoy a comforting and hearty Leek, Mushroom & Beef Casserole that's perfect for any cozy dinner. This dish combines tender beef, flavorful leeks, earthy mushrooms, and a rich broth, accented with bacon and red wine for a truly satisfying meal.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Ingredients:
- Chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Finely dice the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Trim, clean, and thinly slice the leek.
- Slice the mushrooms.
- Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the fresh parsley.
3. Cook Bacon:
- In a large ovenproof casserole dish or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the dish.
4. Sauté Vegetables:
- Add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil to the dish.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced leek. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes, until they begin to brown.
5. Brown the Beef:
- Push the vegetables to the sides of the dish and add the beef pieces in a single layer.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the beef on all sides until browned, mixing occasionally to coat with flour and evenly distribute the vegetables.
6. Deglaze and Build Flavor:
- Pour in the beef broth and red wine, stirring to deglaze the bottom of the dish.
- Add the fresh thyme leaves and bay leaves, and stir everything together.
7. Combine and Cook:
- Return the crispy bacon to the dish, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stovetop, then cover the dish with a lid or foil.
8. Bake:
- Transfer the covered casserole dish to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
9. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Garnish with the chopped fresh parsley.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
10. Enjoy:
- Serve hot with your preferred side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
You've successfully cooked a delicious Leek, Mushroom & Beef Casserole that's sure to please everyone at the table. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful gravy. Enjoy your comforting homemade meal!
Leek, mushroom & beef casserole FAQ:
What is the baking time for the Leek, Mushroom & Beef Casserole?
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
How can I tell if the beef is done?
The beef is done when it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. It should also be simmering gently in the sauce.
Can I substitute the beef with another meat?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with chicken or pork, but adjust the cooking time as those meats may require less time to become tender.
How should I store leftovers of the casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of red wine in this recipe?
You can use beef broth, grape juice, or pomegranate juice as a non-alcoholic substitute for red wine, but the flavor will differ.
Tips:
- Ensure you cut the beef into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Sear the beef well to develop a rich and deep flavor.
- Use fresh thyme and parsley for the best aromatic results.
- Deglaze the pan with red wine to lift all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
- Cook the casserole slowly over low heat to allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully.