Northern Beef Casserole
Northern Beef Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender stew beef, smoky bacon, and flavorful vegetables all simmered in a rich beef broth with chili sauce. Perfect for family dinners, it offers a savory taste with a hint of spice, served over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp; set aside.
- In the same frypan, brown the beef after rolling in flour.
- Brown the mushrooms, onion, and green pepper.
- Parboil the carrots for 10 minutes.
- Add 1 tablespoon flour, 2 cups undiluted beef bouillon, and chili sauce to the pan.
- Put all ingredients in a casserole dish.
- Dice the bacon and spread on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) about 2 hours or until tender.
- Serve over rice or noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of beef broth and red wine instead of just beef bouillon. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute turkey bacon for the traditional bacon. Feel free to add more vegetables like peas or bell peppers to enhance the dish. To thicken the casserole, add an extra tablespoon of flour if needed during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Northern Beef Casserole pairs beautifully with rice or noodles, providing a hearty base for the rich flavors. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread to balance the meal. For a comforting touch, a side of steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes would complement this dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be cautious not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Northern Beef Casserole contains roughly 348 calories, with 22g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (193% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (71% of the Daily Value), and protein (44% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 635mg per serving (28% 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 type of meat for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute stew beef with ground beef or chicken for a lighter option. If using ground beef, be sure to drain excess fat after browning. Chicken thighs or pork can also work well, but adjust cooking times as needed to ensure tenderness.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even tastier. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What can I do if the casserole is too dry?
If you find your casserole is dry, you can add a splash of beef broth or water before serving. Stir it gently to incorporate moisture. Alternatively, consider serving it with a sauce or gravy on the side for added richness.
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).