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Hairy Bikers Beef Casserole

Hairy Bikers Beef Casserole - recipe card
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A hearty and comforting British beef casserole with tender chunks of beef, root vegetables, and a rich savory gravy. Slow-baked to perfection, this dish is ideal for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lb beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 lb small potatoes, quartered (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F / 163°C. Prepare all ingredients: dice the onion, slice the carrots, chop the celery, mince the garlic, and quarter the potatoes if using. This ensures efficient cooking and even texture in the final dish.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until evenly coated. The flour helps to brown the beef properly and thicken the casserole sauce during cooking.
  3. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers. Working in batches to avoid crowding, add the floured beef cubes and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply browned. Transfer browned beef to a plate; crowding the pan steams the meat instead of searing it.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom to build flavor in the sauce.
  5. Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften but still hold their shape. This step enhances sweetness and texture in the casserole.
  6. Stir in the minced garlic and 2 tbsp tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. The tomato paste adds depth and richness; avoid burning it by keeping the heat medium.
  7. Pour in 1 cup dry red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping the bottom vigorously to release all caramelized bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the wine reduces slightly, which concentrates the flavor and removes alcohol harshness.
  8. Add the seared beef back to the pot, along with 2 cups beef broth, 1 bay leaf, and 1 tsp dried thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
  9. If using potatoes, add the quartered potatoes to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Cover with a tight-fitting lid to trap moisture and transfer to the preheated oven.
  10. Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Check halfway through and stir gently if needed to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking; the sauce should bubble slightly.
  11. After baking, remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes uncovered. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to skim off any excess fat from the surface if desired.
  12. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving, as it can be bitter if left in.
  13. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, alongside crusty bread or over mashed potatoes. The casserole should be thick, rich, and aromatic.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw if frozen, then place in a covered oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F / 177°C for 20-30 minutes until heated through, or reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition

Keywords: hairy bikers beef casserole, beef casserole recipe, British beef stew, slow-cooked beef, hearty casserole, comfort food, oven-baked casserole, beef and vegetable casserole, family dinner, easy casserole, one-pot meal

Find it online: https://britishrecipes.uk/hairy-bikers-beef-casserole/