There’s something truly comforting about a slow-cooked casserole, especially when it’s packed with tender beef and vibrant summer vegetables. This beef casserole will fill your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas and provide a satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the season’s freshest produce while indulging in tender, flavorful beef.
This recipe is all about patience and simplicity. Toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, and let the magic happen over a few hours. The result? A rich and savory casserole that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for those lazy summer days when you want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sunshine.
Hearty Ingredients for a Comforting Meal
The foundation of this beef casserole lies in its wholesome ingredients.
Tender chunks of beef chuck create a rich, savory base, complemented by the natural sweetness of zucchini and bell peppers.
These vibrant vegetables brighten the dish and add essential nutrients, making it a delightful and hearty choice for summer gatherings.
Flavorful Cooking Techniques
Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor and locks in juices.
This step ensures that each bite of beef is succulent and packed with taste.
The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld perfectly, resulting in a comforting casserole that warms the heart.
Aromatic Herbs and Spices
The addition of dried thyme and garlic brings a fragrant element to this dish.
These herbs elevate the overall flavor profile, creating a mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen.
Adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper allows for a personalized touch, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors.
The Comfort of Slow Cooking
With a total cook time of 6 to 8 hours, slow cooking is key to this casserole’s success.
It offers the luxury of minimal kitchen time, allowing you to enjoy the sunny days while the meal simmers to perfection.
This method enhances tenderness and creates a dish that begs to be savored rather than rushed.
The Perfect Accompaniment
Serving this casserole with crusty bread transforms it into a complete meal.
The fresh bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce and complements the hearty flavors of the beef and vegetables.
This combination invites family and friends to gather around the table, sharing warmth and comfort.
Nutrition and Serving Information
This casserole serves up to six, making it an ideal choice for family meals or friendly gatherings.
With 350 calories per serving, it provides a balanced combination of protein, fat, and carbohydrates.
Enjoying this dish not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the body, making it a summer staple.
Delicious and Easy Summer Beef Casserole
This slow-cooked beef casserole combines chunks of succulent beef with summer vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes in a savory sauce. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Each bite offers a rich, savory taste complemented by the natural sweetness of the summer vegetables, making this casserole a delightful centerpiece for any summer gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear on all sides until browned. Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker.
- Add Vegetables: To the slow cooker with the beef, add zucchini, bell pepper, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve: Once done, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, and enjoy this delicious casserole with crusty bread or over rice.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
