Imagine a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day—this is what Angel Beef Casserole embodies. Picture this: tender chunks of beef swimming in a sea of creamy sauce and layered with fluffy mashed potatoes, all topped with melty cheese that oozes with every scoop. If you think your taste buds are tingling already, just wait until you smell it baking in the oven.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What can I substitute for ground beef in Angel Beef Casserole?
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- How do I know when my casserole is done?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now let me take you back to that memorable family reunion where I first tasted this divine creation. My aunt served it up as the centerpiece of our dinner table, and folks, I could hear angels singing! This dish is not just food; it’s an experience filled with laughter and warmth. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re simply craving something comforting.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- You can whip up this dish quickly, making meal prep hassle-free.
- The rich flavors will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Its beautiful layers make it stunning to serve at gatherings.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to your own flavor preferences!
I still remember how my cousin declared it “the best thing ever” while diving into seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the casserole.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide an aromatic punch; don’t skimp!
- Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms bring earthiness and texture; opt for button or cremini varieties.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This acts as the base sauce; use low-fat options if preferred.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A colorful mix adds nutrition without any extra chopping.
- Mashed Potatoes: Homemade or store-bought mashed potatoes create a fluffy topping.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar cheese melts beautifully on top; feel free to mix varieties!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your favorite baking dish because we’re about to create magic.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and toss in your onions and garlic. Sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant—around 3-5 minutes should do the trick.
Add the Ground Beef: Next, add the ground beef to the pan with those lovely onions and garlic. Cook until browned and crumbly; drain any excess fat if necessary.
Incorporate Mushrooms and Mixed Veggies: Toss in those sliced mushrooms along with your frozen mixed vegetables. Stir everything together until warmed through—about 5 minutes will suffice.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and mix well until everything is coated nicely. Let it simmer gently; trust me, you’ll want this sauce all over!
Layer It Up: Spread half of your meat mixture into the bottom of your baking dish. Spoon half of the mashed potatoes over this layer, smoothing it out evenly before repeating with another layer.
Add Cheese on Top: Finally, sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top layer of mashed potatoes; because who doesn’t love cheesy goodness?
Cover your dish with aluminum foil (to avoid any unwanted mess) before popping it into the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
After thirty minutes have passed, remove that foil carefully—watch out for steam—and let it bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
Once done baking, pull out that heavenly casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Your kitchen will smell like a cozy diner!
And there you have it—a simple yet fulfilling recipe that brings joy to every table! Enjoy every bite of your Angel Beef Casserole; it’s sure to warm hearts as well as bellies!
You Must Know
- This Angel Beef Casserole is more than a meal; it’s a hug in a dish.
- The combination of tender beef and savory flavors fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
- Plus, it’s perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef to lock in flavors, then layer ingredients while the oven preheats for an efficient cooking experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to personalize the casserole.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Angel Beef Casserole, ensure your beef is well-browned for depth of flavor.
- Use fresh herbs for an aromatic boost that elevates each bite.
- Lastly, let it sit before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
I remember the first time I made this casserole; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. They still ask me for the recipe every time we gather!
FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef in Angel Beef Casserole?
You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to ground beef.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it and refrigerate overnight before baking when you’re ready.
How do I know when my casserole is done?
The casserole should be bubbly and golden on top, indicating it’s cooked through and ready to enjoy.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Angel Beef Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Angel Beef Casserole is a comforting dish featuring tender beef, creamy sauce, and fluffy mashed potatoes, all topped with melty cheese. Ideal for family gatherings!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
- 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in mushrooms and frozen vegetables; cook until warmed through, about 5 minutes.
- Mix in the cream of mushroom soup until everything is well coated.
- Layer half of the meat mixture in a baking dish, followed by half of the mashed potatoes. Repeat the layers.
- Top with shredded cheese and cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
