Name: Tender Beef Casserole with a Savory Slow Cooker Twist
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced; 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup dry red wine; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 1 sprig fresh rosemary; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Savor the rich, comforting flavors of this Tender Beef Casserole, slow-cooked to perfection. Juicy beef, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs meld together in a savory broth, creating a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. (50 words)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tender Beef Casserole is a heartwarming dish that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the beef with deep, savory notes while keeping it tender and juicy. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or gatherings, as it yields generous portions with minimal effort. The recipe is forgiving, allowing you to customize vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste. Plus, the aroma that fills your home as it cooks is irresistible, making it a go-to comfort food for any season.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Brown the Beef: Searing the beef before slow cooking locks in flavor and adds a rich, caramelized depth.
Layer Strategically: Place root vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
Don’t Skip the Deglazing: Use wine or broth to scrape up browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
Check Liquid Levels: Ensure there’s enough broth to keep the casserole moist but not soupy.
Thicken if Needed: If the sauce is too thin, mix in a cornstarch slurry 30 minutes before serving.
Fresh Herbs at the End: Add fresh parsley or thyme just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Taste and Adjust: Season gradually and taste before serving to balance flavors.

Yield: Serves 6

Tender Beef Casserole with a Savory Slow Cooker Twist

Tender beef and hearty vegetables slow-cooked in a savory broth for a comforting, flavorful casserole.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup dry red wine
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 sprig fresh rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

<ol><li>Prepare the Beef: Pat dry the beef cubes with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This ensures a good sear and enhances flavor.</li><li>Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, to lock in juices. Transfer to the slow cooker.</li><li>Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add onion and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally.</li><li>Deglaze the Pan: Add tomato paste to the skillet, stirring for 1 minute. Pour in red wine, scraping up browned bits for extra flavor. Let simmer for 2 minutes.</li><li>Combine Ingredients: Transfer the wine mixture to the slow cooker. Add carrots, potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.</li><li>Set and Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until beef is fork-tender and vegetables are soft.</li><li>Check Consistency: If the sauce is too thin, mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the casserole. Cook on high for 20-30 minutes to thicken.</li><li>Taste and Adjust: Remove thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.</li><li>Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes to meld flavors. This makes it even more delicious!</li><li>Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a cozy meal.</li></ol>

Notes

For best results, don’t rush the browning process; it’s key to building flavor.
If using dried herbs, reduce the amount by half to avoid overpowering the dish.
Check vegetables halfway through cooking to ensure they’re not overcooking; adjust sizes if needed.
This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 555Total Fat 28gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 16gCholesterol 125mgSodium 389mgCarbohydrates 29gFiber 3gSugar 4gProtein 41g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Beef Chuck Roast: Opt for well-marbled chuck for tenderness; trim excess fat to avoid greasiness.
Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and onions provide heartiness; choose firm, fresh produce for best texture.
Red Wine: A dry red like Cabernet Sauvignon adds depth; substitute with grape juice if avoiding alcohol.
Beef Broth: Low-sodium broth allows better control over seasoning; homemade broth elevates flavor.
Tomato Paste: Adds umami and richness; use a high-quality brand for better taste.
Garlic and Herbs: Fresh garlic, thyme, and rosemary enhance aroma; dried herbs work in a pinch but use sparingly.
Worcestershire Sauce: Boosts savory notes; a little goes a long way, so measure carefully.

Variations and Substitutions

For a lighter version, swap beef for leaner cuts like sirloin, though cooking time may reduce. Root vegetables can be substituted with parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for a sweeter profile. For a gluten-free option, ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free or omit it. To make it alcohol-free, replace red wine with additional broth or grape juice. Add mushrooms or green beans for extra texture and flavor. For a spicier twist, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. If you prefer a creamier casserole, stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream at the end.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tip: Add a splash of broth when reheating to maintain moisture.