🥘 Hearty Beef and Potato Casserole – A Comforting Classic
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If you're craving a warm, satisfying meal that’s both rustic and deeply flavorful, this Beef and Potato Casserole (inspired by traditional tagine-style cooking) is just what you need. With tender beef, golden potatoes, rich spices, and a slow-cooked depth of flavor, it’s the perfect dish for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or Sunday meals.
Let’s dive into this hearty, one-pot wonder that brings old-world comfort to your modern table!
🍖 Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (700g) beef stew meat, cut into cubes
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color and depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- 1 tomato, grated or finely chopped (optional for added richness)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prepare the beef: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides for about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).
- Add spices: Stir in the cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
- Build the casserole: Return the beef to the pot. Layer the potato slices over the meat. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add liquids: Pour in the beef broth (or water) until the contents are just covered. Add the chopped tomato if using for a richer flavor.
- Simmer or bake:
- Stovetop: Cover and simmer over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Oven method: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish or Dutch oven and bake for about 2 hours.
- Finish: Uncover and allow the top layer of potatoes to lightly crisp up for 10–15 minutes at the end (if desired).
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or cilantro on top before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with crusty bread, couscous, or steamed rice
- Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables
- Add a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
💡 Tips & Variations
- Use lamb instead of beef for a more traditional North African flavor
- Add carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition
- Make it spicier with harissa or chopped green chilies
- Use a tagine pot if you have one for an authentic touch
🧊 Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed
- Freezes well for up to 2 months
💬 Final Thoughts
This Beef and Potato Casserole is more than just a meal — it's comfort in a pot. With tender chunks of beef, soft and flavorful potatoes, and aromatic spices, this dish fills your kitchen with the irresistible smell of home cooking. It’s simple, hearty, and endlessly satisfying.
Have you tried this recipe? Share your version in the comments or tag us on social media with your delicious creations!
Keywords: beef casserole, tagine, beef and potato stew, comfort food, easy dinner recipe, slow-cooked beef