Harvest Beef Casserole
A hearty beef casserole with mixed vegetables and savory cornbread topping, perfect for comforting family dinners and satisfying a crowd with rich flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef and seasoned salt in a skillet; cook over high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add frozen mixed vegetables in onion sauce to the cooked beef; stir and heat through for about 3-5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix Jiffy cornbread mix with milk and margarine until smooth.
- Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into a casserole dish.
- Spread the cornbread batter evenly over the beef mixture.
- Microwave on high power for 13 to 17 minutes until the cornbread is cooked through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef while cooking. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use leftover cooked beef for convenience. If you don't have Jiffy cornbread mix, any cornbread recipe will work, but adjust the liquid accordingly. This dish is a great way to use up leftover vegetables as well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Weekend Stew for a comforting dinner. For extra flavor, consider drizzling some hot sauce or your favorite barbecue sauce over the top before serving. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally until heated through, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Ensure the cornbread topping stays moist by covering it with foil while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harvest Beef Casserole contains roughly 689 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2346mg per serving (102% 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 fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables! Just chop them into small pieces and sauté them with the ground beef until tender. Fresh vegetables will add a different texture and flavor, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you prefer not to use margarine, you can substitute it with unsalted butter or olive oil. Both options will work well, adding a nice richness to the cornbread batter. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil is a great alternative.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to enhance the dish's flavor and texture. Use vegetable broth instead of milk in the cornbread mix for a fully vegetarian meal.
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).