How to Make Slow Cooked Summer Beef Casserole Perfect for Warm Days

As the warm days of summer roll in, I find myself craving hearty yet refreshing meals that are easy to prepare. One of my absolute favorites is this Slow Cooked Summer Beef Casserole. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate fresh vegetables and tender beef into your family’s diet. If you’re looking for quick family dinners that are both satisfying and flavorful, you’re in for a treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
• Perfect for warm days, as it’s slow-cooked to perfection.
• Loaded with fresh vegetables for a nutritious boost.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers taste even better!
• Pairs wonderfully with couscous or your favorite side.

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 600 g (1.3 lbs) braising beef, chopped into chunks
• 2 tbsp plain (all-purpose) flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
• 330 ml (11 oz) Guinness or other ale
• 360 ml (1 1/2 cups) beef stock
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small courgette/zucchini, chopped into chunks
• 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
• Freshly chopped parsley
• 1/4 red onion, peeled and thinly sliced
• Cooked couscous (I love using Ainsley Harriott’s Spice Sensation for extra flavor!)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 160C/325F (fan).
2. In a Dutch oven or heavy-based pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. In a bowl or bag, toss the beef with flour, salt, and pepper until well coated. Add the beef to the pan and brown it all over, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic, stir, and cook for one minute. Then, pour in the Guinness and beef stock.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, stir, and cover the pan with a lid. Place it in the oven and let it cook for 3 hours. Remember to check every hour and add a splash of water if it looks a little dry.
6. After 3 hours, add the chopped peppers and courgette. Cover and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to warm the veggies through while keeping them crunchy.
7. Once done, take it out of the oven and sprinkle with parmesan, parsley, and red onion slices. Serve it warm with couscous.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly:

• For a richer flavor, let the beef marinate in the flour, salt, and pepper for a few hours before cooking.
• Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrition.
• If you’re short on time, you can use a slow cooker instead of the oven. Just follow the same steps and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Don’t skip the parmesan! It adds a delightful creaminess that elevates the dish.
• For a twist, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.

How to Serve

This Beef Casserole is best served warm, and I love pairing it with fluffy couscous. If you’re looking for easy pasta recipes to serve alongside, consider a simple garlic pasta or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the casserole. It’s also a great dish for entertaining, as it can be made ahead and simply reheated!

Make Ahead and Storage

This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the oven. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

So, there you have it! A delicious, hearty, and satisfying Summer Beef Stew that’s perfect for those warm days. I hope you enjoy making this easy delicious casserole as much as I do. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of Beef Stew Meat Recipes and a wonderful way to bring the family together over a comforting meal. Happy cooking!