recipe beef casserole uk

Warm Up with a Hearty Beef Casserole Recipe from the UK

If you're looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for a chilly evening, look no further than a traditional UK-style beef casserole recipe. This classic dish is a staple of British cuisine, and for good reason - it's easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a family favorite.

The Origins of Beef Casserole in the UK

Beef casserole, also known as beef stew or beef hotpot, has a long history in the UK. The dish originated in the 18th century, when cooks would slow-cook tougher cuts of beef in a rich broth with vegetables and grains. Over time, the recipe evolved to include a crunchy, golden-brown crust on top, typically made with a mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and butter.

A Simple yet Delicious Beef Casserole Recipe

Here's a simple recipe for a classic UK-style beef casserole that serves 4-6 people:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stewing steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup mashed potatoes
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

In a separate pot, boil the mashed potatoes until heated through. In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked beef mixture in the bottom of the dish. Top with half of the mashed potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the grated cheese and half of the breadcrumbs. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese and breadcrumbs on top. Dot the top with butter.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Tips and Variations for the Perfect Beef Casserole

To take your beef casserole to the next level, try these tips and variations:

Use a variety of vegetables: Add diced carrots, sliced mushrooms, or chopped bell peppers to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Try different types of cheese: Experiment with cheddar, Parmesan, or even feta cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Add some spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give your casserole a spicy kick.

Make it ahead: Prepare the beef mixture and mashed potatoes up to a day in advance, then assemble and bake when ready.

With these simple tips and a classic UK-style beef casserole recipe, you'll be well on your way to creating a hearty, comforting dish that's sure to become a family favorite.