If you’re searching for a comforting dish that effortlessly brings summer flavors and rich, hearty goodness together, this Slow Cooked Summer Beef Casserole Recipe is exactly what your kitchen has been waiting for. Tender chunks of braising beef slowly cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection mingle with vibrant bell peppers and fresh courgette, all enriched by a luscious Guinness and beef stock base. This dish is a celebration of summer’s bounty presented in a warm, cozy casserole that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few simple yet essential ingredients is all you need to create this Slow Cooked Summer Beef Casserole Recipe. Each component adds something special—whether it’s the bold depth of the ale, the freshness of the vegetables, or the rich savoriness of the beef—to give this casserole its wonderful balance of flavors and textures.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: This provides a smooth base to brown the beef and intensifies the flavors.
- 600 g (1.3 lbs) braising beef, chopped into chunks: The star of the dish, tenderizing beautifully during the slow cooking process.
- 2 tbsp plain (all-purpose) flour: Helps to create a subtle thickening effect in the sauce.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp pepper: Adds just the right touch of warmth to the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced: Infuses the stew with its unmistakable aromatic charm.
- 330 ml (11 oz) Guinness or other ale: Provides a slow-cooked richness and depth that you’ll adore.
- 360 ml (1 1/2 cups) beef stock: Keeps the meat moist and forms the saucy base for the casserole.
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Brings sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Adds freshness and a slight crunch contrast.
- 1 small courgette/zucchini, chopped into chunks: Offers a tender, summery bite
- 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese: Perfect for sprinkling on top to add a salty, nutty finish.
How to Make Slow Cooked Summer Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Begin by preheating your oven to 160C (325F) with the fan on. This gentle temperature is key to slowly coaxing the beef into tenderness while allowing all the flavors to develop fully over time.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-based ovenproof pot. Toss the beef chunks with flour, salt, and pepper, then brown them in batches until each piece has a beautiful golden crust. This not only locks in flavor but builds the base for a rich sauce later.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Liquids
Next, stir in the minced garlic so it releases its fragrance without burning. Pour in the Guinness (or your chosen ale) along with the beef stock, bringing the mixture up to a boil on the stovetop before covering the pot with a lid. This step marries the robust ale flavor with the savory stock to create the perfect slow-simmered environment.
Step 4: Long Slow Cook
Place the Dutch oven into your preheated oven and let it cook low and slow for 3 hours. This is where the magic happens—tough cuts become fabulously tender and the sauce thickens, absorbing every nuance of flavor.
Step 5: Add Summer Vegetables
After the long cook, add the chopped red and green bell peppers and courgette. Return to the oven uncovered for another 5 minutes so the vegetables soften slightly but still retain their fresh texture and color.
Step 6: Final Touches
Remove from the oven and sprinkle the casserole generously with grated parmesan. This crowning touch melts into the hot casserole, adding a slightly salty, nutty layer that complements the rich beef and fresh veggies perfectly.
How to Serve Slow Cooked Summer Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish, scatter some fresh parsley and finely chopped red onion on top just before serving. These simple garnishes add brightness and a slight crunch that contrast beautifully with the soft, rich casserole.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooked Summer Beef Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy couscous, which soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly. You could also serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread for an extra dose of comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the casserole in individual rustic bowls or even in mini Dutch ovens. Adding a wedge of lemon or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving can add a surprising zesty lift to the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps beautifully for up to three days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers in portion-sized containers for up to three months. Just make sure to cool the casserole completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat your Slow Cooked Summer Beef Casserole Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat or in a microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of beef stock or water can revive the sauce if it has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this casserole?
Absolutely! Tougher cuts like chuck or brisket work best because they become tender and flavorful during the long cooking process.
Is it necessary to use Guinness or ale in the recipe?
The Guinness adds a unique depth and richness, but if you prefer, a dark beer or even extra beef stock can be used as alternatives.
Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the vegetables near the end as described.
What can I substitute for courgette if I’m not a fan?
Try using diced carrots, sweet potatoes, or even mushrooms for a different but equally delicious summer vegetable addition.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! This Slow Cooked Summer Beef Casserole Recipe tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for preparing in advance for a busy week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a slow-cooked meal that brings everyone around the table with smiles and full hearts. This Slow Cooked Summer Beef Casserole Recipe is a perfect blend of hearty and fresh, simple but bursting with layers of flavor. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the joy of a summer casserole that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
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Slow Cooked Summer Beef Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Slow Cooked Summer Beef Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender braising beef slowly cooked in Guinness and beef stock with fresh summer vegetables like bell peppers and courgette. Finished with a sprinkle of parmesan, it’s a comforting meal perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 600 g (1.3 lbs) braising beef, chopped into chunks
- 2 tbsp plain (all-purpose) flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
Liquid and Vegetables
- 330 ml (11 oz) Guinness or other ale
- 360 ml (1 1/2 cups) beef stock
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small courgette/zucchini, chopped into chunks
Topping
- 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red onion, finely sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 160C/325F (fan). This low temperature will allow the beef to cook slowly and become tender.
- Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Coat the beef chunks in a mixture of plain flour, salt, and pepper. Add the beef to the hot oil and brown it on all sides to develop flavor.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Stir in the minced garlic, then pour in the Guinness and beef stock. Bring the mixture to a boil on the stovetop, then cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the preheated oven to cook for 3 hours, allowing the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld.
- Add Vegetables: After 3 hours, remove the dish from the oven and stir in the chopped red and green bell peppers, along with the courgette chunks. Return to the oven and cook uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to soften the vegetables while keeping their freshness.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the casserole with grated parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and finely sliced red onion. Serve hot alongside couscous or your preferred side dish.
Notes
- The Guinness adds a rich, deep flavor but you can substitute it with any dark ale or robust beer.
- Using a Dutch oven helps maintain even heat for slow cooking; if unavailable, a heavy, oven-safe pot with a lid will work.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute plain flour with a gluten-free alternative and check the beer is gluten-free.
- Cook time may vary slightly depending on the size of beef chunks; ensure beef is fork-tender before serving.
- Parmesan adds a salty tang; omit for a dairy-free option or replace with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
