Beef and Vegetable Casserole Recipe for Slow Cooker Delight

Nothing beats the comfort of a hearty beef and vegetable casserole after a long day. This slow cooker recipe is a true lifesaver for busy households craving a warm, delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tender chunks of beef simmer gently alongside wholesome vegetables, herbs, and a rich gravy, filling your home with irresistible aromas. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole offers a perfect balance of protein and veggies with minimal effort.

Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it — just prep your ingredients, toss them in, and let the magic happen. You’ll come home to a meal that tastes like it’s been lovingly prepared all day, with melt-in-your-mouth beef and perfectly cooked vegetables.

Plus, this recipe is versatile enough to swap in your favorite seasonal veggies or add extra spices for an exciting twist. Let’s dive right into why this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to slow cooker meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef and vegetable casserole recipe is designed for ease, flavor, and nutrition. Here’s why it stands out:

• Effortless preparation: Minimal chopping and layering mean less time cooking and more time relaxing.
• Rich, hearty flavors: Slow cooking melds the spices, beef, and vegetables beautifully into a savory, comforting dish.
• Nutritious and balanced: A great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins thanks to the combination of lean beef and plenty of colorful vegetables.
• Family-friendly: This dish appeals to all ages and is perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
• Flexible and customizable: Easily swap vegetables based on seasonality or preference, and adjust seasoning to your taste.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (700g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup (150g) green beans, trimmed and halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
• 1 can (14 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Equipment

• Slow cooker (4-6 quart capacity recommended)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Large skillet (optional, for browning beef)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with a paper towel. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and brown the beef in batches until all sides have a golden crust. This step adds depth to the flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
2. Layer the vegetables: Place the chopped onion, carrots, potatoes, celery, and green beans into the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic on top.
3. Add the beef: Transfer the browned beef cubes over the vegetables in the slow cooker.
4. Mix the liquids and seasonings: In a bowl, combine the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until combined.
5. Pour and stir: Pour the broth and tomato mixture evenly over the beef and vegetables. Gently stir to distribute the seasonings without mixing everything too much.
6. Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Optional thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, about 30 minutes before serving, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a small amount of cold water to form a slurry. Stir this into the casserole and continue cooking with the lid off to thicken.
8. Final taste check: Adjust seasoning if needed with extra salt or pepper.
9. Serve warm: Spoon the casserole into bowls and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“Slow cooking is all about layering flavors and patience. Don’t rush the browning of beef if you can — it truly elevates the dish!”

• Vegetable swaps: Use parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne for gentle heat.
• Herb alternatives: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley can be added at the end for bright, fresh flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder for thickening.
• Make it a stew: Add more broth or water if you prefer a soupier consistency.
• Advance prep: Chop your vegetables and brown the beef the night before to save time in the morning.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This beef and vegetable casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to complete your meal. Consider serving it with a crusty bread roll to soak up the rich gravy, or a simple green salad for freshness.

For a heartier option, creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles also work wonderfully.

To add more greens, steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach make excellent accompaniments. For a touch of sweetness, roasted root vegetables like beets or parsnips complement the savory flavors of the casserole perfectly.

Conclusion

This slow cooker beef and vegetable casserole is an absolute winner for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal with minimal fuss. The slow cooking process transforms simple ingredients into a comforting dish packed with flavor and nutrients.

Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for yourself, it’s a versatile recipe that adapts well to your favorite veggies and seasoning preferences.

With easy preparation, flexible ingredient options, and a deliciously rich taste, it’s no wonder this casserole is a staple in many kitchens. Don’t forget to explore more slow cooker and hearty meal recipes like Awesome Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes for Easy Meals, Best Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes NZ For Easy Meals, and 15 Bean Soup Slow Cooker Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious for more inspiration.

Happy cooking!

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