Easy Oven
A hearty oven-braised beef stew with tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and savory tomato and onion notes, perfect for comforting family dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coat beef with flour, salt, and pepper; toss with oil in a 3-quart casserole.
- Bake, uncovered, at 400° for 30 minutes.
- Cover and bake at 375° for 2 hours or until meat is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or herbs like thyme and rosemary to the casserole before baking. You can substitute the stew meat with chuck roast or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. This dish also pairs well with a side of Gerken Salat (Cucumber Salad) for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of steamed green beans or a light salad, such as Gazpacho Jigger Salad, complements the rich flavors of the dish perfectly. For a complete meal, consider pairing with a glass of red wine.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the stew to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Oven contains roughly 1639 calories, with 26g protein, 245g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (128% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2042mg per serving (89% 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 frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots and potatoes, but be aware that they may release extra moisture during cooking. If using frozen vegetables, add them halfway through the baking time to ensure they do not become mushy.
What can I substitute for the dry onion soup mix?
If you don't have dry onion soup mix, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of beef bouillon granules. This will provide a similar flavor profile to enhance your stew.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your stew, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes when mixing the ingredients. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who like a spicy kick.
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).