Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Vegetable Casserole is a perfect dish for families and gatherings. It combines ground beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese in a comforting baked meal. This recipe is great for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something hearty and satisfying. The best part is that it is easy to throw together and can please even the pickiest eaters!

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Vegetable Casserole

Ingredients :

• 1 lb Ground beef
• 1 tsp Basil, dried
• 2 cups Carrots, chopped
• 2 cups Celery, chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 small Onion, chopped
• 1 tsp Oregano, dried
• 3 cups Potatoes, diced
• 1 can Tomatoes, diced
• 4 cups Beef broth, low sodium
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Heavy cream

Directions :

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the skillet and sauté until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the diced potatoes, canned tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let it cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Vegetable Casserole

Serve the casserole warm. It goes well with a side salad or some crusty bread. This dish can also stand alone as a complete meal, combining protein, veggies, and comfort all in one.

How to Store Cheesy Beef and Vegetable Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake it until warmed through.

Tips to Make Cheesy Beef and Vegetable Casserole

• Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what you have on hand. Peas, green beans, or bell peppers are great options.
• For extra flavor, try adding some spices like paprika or thyme.
• Make sure to stir the cheese into the mixture well for a creamy texture.

Variation

You can make a lighter version by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and keep it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work well and can save you time in the prep stage. Just add them directly to the skillet with the other ingredients.

What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.