Beef And Barley
Hearty beef and barley casserole combines tender chuck roast with savory mushroom soup and wholesome barley, making a comforting meal perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub salt and pepper into the chuck roast.
- Place the seasoned roast in a 13 x 9-inch pan or similar-sized wide casserole dish.
- Mix water, barley, sliced onion, cream of mushroom soup, and sugar together.
- Pour the mixture around the meat and cover tightly with foil.
- Bake at 325°F for 2 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
- After 1 1/2 hours, turn the meat over and add additional water if the mixture seems too dry.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or mushrooms to the mixture before baking. If you don't have barley, you can substitute with quinoa or rice, but adjust cooking times accordingly. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can add depth. Make sure to check the liquid level halfway through to prevent drying out, as the cooking time can vary based on the roast's size.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is perfect served with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad adds a nice contrast. For a delightful dessert, try pairing with No Crust Apple Nut Pie to round out your dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beef and barley can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture and heat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to preserve quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Barley contains roughly 964 calories, with 56g protein, 186g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (344% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (228% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1023mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round roast. However, cooking times may vary, and it's best to choose cuts that benefit from slow cooking to ensure tenderness. Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and flavor.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cooking liquid. You could also sauté the onions before adding them to the dish for a deeper flavor base. A splash of red wine can also enhance the overall taste.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, beef and barley freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove, adding a bit of liquid if necessary.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).