Slow-Cooked Summer Beef Casserole

This slow-cooked summer beef casserole brings together sun-kissed vegetables and melt-in-your-mouth beef for a meal that feels both cozy and bright. With each spoonful, you get tender chunks of beef, vibrant peppers, and hearty potatoes, all soaked in flavorful broth. On long evenings when I want an effortless dinner that makes enough for a crowd, I turn to this dish and it never disappoints.

This recipe became a staple last July when unexpected guests dropped by and I stretched supper without stress. Now it is my number one for easy entertaining or filling family feasts.

Ingredients

• Beef chuck: cut into 1 inch cubes gives the stew rich flavor and stays juicy during long cooking Choose well marbled pieces for best results
• Olive oil: adds subtle fruitiness and helps brown the meat Choose extra virgin for extra depth
• Large onion: diced for sweetness and aromatic complexity Look for firm onions with tight skins
• Garlic cloves: minced give warmth and balance Select fresh cloves over pre chopped for stronger flavor
• Carrots: sliced bring color and natural sweetness Organic carrots are extra tender
• Potatoes: diced thicken the dish and soak up juices Yukon Gold or russet hold shape well
• Red and green bell peppers: chopped supply summery brightness and crunch Choose glossy firm peppers
• Canned diced tomatoes: undrained layer in acidity Go for tomatoes with no added sugar for pure taste
• Beef broth: enhances savory notes Check for lower sodium varieties to control saltiness
• Worcestershire sauce: deepens umami Look for bottles without artificial additives
• Tomato paste: intensifies color and richness Choose double concentrate if available
• Dried thyme: lends gentle earthiness Fresh can also be used if you have it
• Dried rosemary: offers aromatic lift Crush between fingers before adding for best flavor
• Salt and pepper: bring all the seasoning into balance Taste and adjust as needed
• Fresh parsley: chopped for garnish makes every bowl look bright and fresh Flat leaf parsley gives the most flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Get your skillet nice and hot Add olive oil and then beef cubes Sear each side for five to seven minutes until browned This step locks in the juices and sets up a deep flavor foundation Lift out the beef and set aside

Soften the Vegetables:

In the same skillet add diced onion and minced garlic Keep the heat at medium Sauté while stirring for three to four minutes The goal is soft translucent onions and fragrant garlic bits

Layer in the Slow Cooker:

In your slow cooker place browned beef onions garlic carrots potatoes red and green bell peppers diced tomatoes beef broth Worcestershire sauce tomato paste thyme rosemary and a pinch of salt and pepper Stir gently to combine The mix should look colorful and be mostly covered with liquid

Slow Cook to Tenderness:

Place the lid on and set to low for seven to eight hours or high for four to five hours Meat and vegetables will become fork tender and the flavors will meld into a hearty sauce

Final Taste and Serve:

Remove the lid and taste Adjust with more salt or pepper if needed Spoon into bowls and top with fresh parsley for a burst of herby fragrance

Save

I love adding extra potatoes and left over carrots from my crisper And when my kids help sprinkle the parsley at the end the whole table lights up with excitement For us this casserole means togetherness and sharing lazy summer weekends

Storage tips

Let leftovers cool completely before sealing them into containers Keep them in the refrigerator for up to four days I like to reheat the casserole gently on the stove so the meat stays moist If freezing portion it into individual servings and defrost in the fridge before warming

Ingredient substitutions

If beef chuck is not available try stewing beef or brisket For more veggie power swap in zucchini or add a handful of fresh green beans I have even tried sweet potatoes with delicious results Use whatever herbs are in your garden and do not be afraid to play

Serving suggestions

Spoon over steamed rice or alongside crusty gluten free bread for a full meal Sometimes I pair it with a leafy salad with lemony dressing The casserole shines at family potlucks and makes a cozy dish for picnics in thermoses

Cultural and historical context

Slow cooking beef in a savory vegetable stew has roots in many cultures from French pot au feu to Hungarian goulash This version leans into the summer harvest while the technique keeps things simple and fuss free especially on busy days

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What cut of beef works best for slow-cooking?

Beef chuck is ideal for slow-cooking due to its marbling, which becomes tender and flavorful after hours of gentle heat.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Green beans or peas can be added for extra nutrition and color without changing the overall profile.

→ How can I thicken the sauce?

Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes for a thicker consistency.

→ Is this casserole suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, using cornstarch as a thickener keeps the dish gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

→ What sides pair well with this casserole?

Fresh green salads, crusty bread, or simple rice all complement the flavors and soak up the flavorful sauce nicely.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Let the casserole cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.