Lazy Beef Casserole
A hearty, slow-cooked beef casserole with rich flavors from red wine and consomme, perfect for comforting family dinners and suitable for all beef lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut beef into 2-inch pieces.
- In a 3-quart casserole dish, combine beef, red wine, consomme, salt, pepper, and sliced onion.
- Mix together bread crumbs and sifted flour and stir into the casserole mixture; cover.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) about 3 hours or until beef is tender.
- If desired, add vegetables (potatoes, carrots, green beans, peas) about 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For maximum flavor, consider marinating the beef in red wine overnight. The bread crumbs add a nice texture, but you can substitute with crushed crackers if needed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of baking. Feel free to experiment with vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, which can enhance the dish's flavors, similar to what you might find in other beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Lazy Beef Casserole with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. A simple green salad pairs well, offering a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole. For a comforting family dinner, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, reminiscent of the sides enjoyed with Roast Beef And Sunday Potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, covered to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy Beef Casserole contains roughly 569 calories, with 38g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (76% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 942mg per serving (41% 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?
Yes, you can substitute beef chuck with other cuts like brisket or round, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Tender cuts may require less time, while tougher cuts may need longer to become tender. Always check for doneness before serving.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and cover it tightly. Refrigerate it overnight and bake it the next day. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What type of red wine works best in this recipe?
A dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, works wonderfully in this casserole. Avoid sweet wines as they may alter the dish's flavor profile. The wine enhances the beef's richness, making it a key ingredient in creating a savory depth.
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).