“Easy Angel Beef Casserole Recipe”

Angel Beef Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. This savory casserole combines tender beef, a rich, creamy sauce, and layers of vegetables, all baked to perfection. The unique blend of flavors in this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a special event or just looking to enjoy a delicious meal at home, Angel Beef Casserole brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table.

Ingredients

To prepare this delectable Angel Beef Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 pound of ground beef or stew beef (choose your preference)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
  • 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
  • 2 cups of potatoes (peeled and diced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Preparation

To prepare the Angel Beef Casserole, follow these simple steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until softened and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the ground beef (or stew beef) to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  4. Stir in the beef broth, heavy cream, and mushroom soup. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.
  5. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and diced potatoes to the skillet, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Mistakes to Avoid

While making the Angel Beef Casserole, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid to ensure that the dish turns out perfect:

  1. Overcooking the Beef: Make sure not to overcook the beef before adding the other ingredients. Ground beef can become tough and dry if overcooked, so aim for a browned but juicy texture.
  2. Using Too Much Broth: Adding too much beef broth can result in a watery casserole, which won’t hold its shape well. Stick to the recommended amount to maintain the right consistency.
  3. Skipping the Pre-cooking of Potatoes: If you don’t partially cook the potatoes before adding them to the casserole, they may not cook fully in the oven. You can either parboil them or slice them thinly for faster cooking.
  4. Not Seasoning Enough: It’s important to season the casserole properly. If the dish lacks enough seasoning, it might taste bland, so don’t forget to adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
  5. Not Covering the Casserole: If you leave the casserole uncovered for the entire baking time, it may dry out. Cover it with foil for the first 20-30 minutes of baking and then uncover it to allow the top to brown.

Ingredient Alternatives

If you’re looking to customize your Angel Beef Casserole with alternative ingredients, here are some options:

  • Meat Substitutes: You can replace the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version.
  • Cream Alternatives: For a lighter casserole, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or even a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk.
  • Vegetable Choices: Feel free to swap out the frozen mixed vegetables for your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, spinach, or even butternut squash work well in this dish.
  • Cheese Alternatives: Instead of cheddar or mozzarella, you can try using gouda, parmesan, or a blend of different cheeses for added flavor.
  • Soup Substitutes: If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup, or even make your own creamy sauce from scratch.

Tips and Tricks

To make sure your Angel Beef Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

  1. Layering the Casserole: If you want a thicker casserole, try layering the ingredients in the baking dish. Start with a layer of beef mixture, followed by a layer of potatoes and vegetables. This will help all the flavors meld together and create a more hearty dish.
  2. Adding Herbs for Extra Flavor: Fresh or dried herbs can elevate the flavor of your casserole. Thyme, rosemary, or oregano are great additions to the beef mixture. If you’re using fresh herbs, add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
  3. Customize the Toppings: If you prefer a crunchy topping, sprinkle additional breadcrumbs or grated cheese over the casserole before baking. For a more decadent topping, try adding a layer of crispy fried onions or crushed potato chips for an extra crunch.
  4. Allow Time for Resting: After removing the casserole from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve in neat portions.
  5. Freezing for Later: If you want to make the casserole ahead of time, you can prepare it and freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and bake it from frozen for about 50-60 minutes, adding extra time if necessary.

Suggestions

Here are a few ideas to complement your Angel Beef Casserole or customize it to your liking:

  • Side Dishes: Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to balance out the richness of the dish. Steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach would also pair wonderfully.
  • Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for some spicy kick.
  • Add More Cheese: For cheese lovers, try adding an extra layer of your favorite cheese between the casserole layers. Parmesan, gouda, or even blue cheese can create a delightful flavor contrast.
  • Serving as a Meal Prep Option: Angel Beef Casserole is perfect for meal prepping. Divide the casserole into individual portions and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole without beef? Yes, you can easily substitute the beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? Absolutely! Fresh vegetables work just as well. If using fresh potatoes, make sure to slice them thinly or parboil them to ensure they cook properly in the casserole.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Simply bake it the next day as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual. If frozen after baking, simply reheat it in the oven until hot.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup? You can use any cream-based soup such as cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even make a homemade cream sauce if preferred.

 


Conclusion

Angel Beef Casserole is a delicious, hearty, and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of tender beef, creamy sauce, and vegetables baked to perfection makes it an easy choice for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying dinner. With its customizable ingredients and options for making it ahead or freezing it, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. So, next time you’re craving a comforting meal, give this casserole a try — it’s sure to win over the whole family

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“Easy Angel Beef Casserole Recipe”


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  • Author: Emilline Labrita

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound of ground beef or stew beef (your choice)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
  • 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
  • 2 cups potatoes (peeled and diced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  • Add the ground beef (or stew beef) to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook the beef until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  • Stir in the beef broth, heavy cream, and mushroom soup. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the sauce to thicken.
  • Add the frozen mixed vegetables and diced potatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together until the potatoes and veggies are evenly coated in the sauce.
  • Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, and add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping if desired.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
  • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

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