Introduction
This comforting casserole combines the heartiness of beef with a medley of vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted Cheddar cheese. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this recipe not only warms the heart but also delights the palate.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
Olive oil
1 kg frozen chopped mixed casserole vegetables (e.g., carrot, onion, celery, turnip, swede)
500 g higher-welfare beef mince
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons plain flour
500 ml organic beef stock
100 g frozen peas
1 kg potatoes
40 g unsalted butter
50 g Cheddar cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Each step of this recipe builds layers of flavor, creating a dish that is satisfying and wholesome, making it a perfect choice for any day of the week. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 180ºC/350ºF/gas 4.
Step 2: Prepare Vegetables
Pick and finely chop the rosemary leaves. Place them in a large high-sided pan over high heat along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the frozen mixed vegetables. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and lightly golden, stirring regularly.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Add the beef mince to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, along with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Let it brown for 5 minutes, stirring regularly.
Step 4: Add Flour and Stock
Stir in the flour and cook for a further 2 minutes. Pour in the beef stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Then, add the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Potatoes
While the meat mixture is simmering, peel the potatoes, cutting any larger ones in half. Cook them in a large pan of boiling salted water for 20 minutes, or until they are tender. Drain and allow them to steam dry. Mash the potatoes with the butter, then grate and mix in most of the Cheddar cheese. Season to taste.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Spoon the mince and vegetable mixture into a 20cm x 30cm baking dish. Cover it with the mashed potatoes, creating dips and peaks with the back of your spoon. Optionally, spritz the top with a little olive oil and sprinkle over the remaining cheese.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until it is golden, bubbling, and crispy on top.
Notes
Tip on Rosemary
Make sure to chop the rosemary leaves finely for maximum flavor release.
Beef Mince Quality
Use higher-welfare beef mince for a better texture and taste.
Vegetable Variations
You can switch out the frozen mixed vegetables for your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
Potato Texture
Ensure the potatoes are fully tender before mashing for a smooth consistency.
Storage Instructions
This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months before baking.
Cook techniques
Chopping Herbs
Finely chop fresh herbs like rosemary to release their essential oils and enhance flavor in dishes.
Sautéing
Cook frozen mixed vegetables over high heat with olive oil until soft and lightly golden, stirring regularly for even cooking.
Browning Meat
Add beef mince to the sautéed vegetables and let them brown, which helps to develop a rich flavor and texture.
Thickening
Stirring in plain flour after browning meat helps to thicken sauces and gravies, creating a hearty base for your dish.
Simmering
Simmer the mixture with beef stock to meld flavors and create a robust filling for the casserole.
Baking
Top the casserole with mashed potatoes and cheese, then baking until golden and crispy adds texture and completes the dish.
Mashing
Mash boiled potatoes with butter for a creamy texture, and mix in cheese for added flavor before layering on top of the casserole.
FAQ
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables; however, cooking times may vary.
What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
You can use soy sauce or a mix of vinegar and a bit of sugar as a substitute for Worcestershire sauce.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, replace the beef mince with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking; ensure it is well-covered to prevent freezer burn. Cook it from frozen or thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
Conclusion
This comforting dish combines hearty beef with a medley of vegetables, all topped with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes. It’s a satisfying meal that not only warms you up but also serves as a wholesome family dinner. The fresh rosemary adds a delightful aroma, while the Worcestershire sauce enhances the overall flavor, making it a dish you’ll want to revisit again and again.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Beef and Mushroom Shepherd’s Pie
Substitute beef mince with minced mushrooms for a vegetarian option, and mix in some sautéed garlic and thyme for added flavor.
Vegetable and Lentil Casserole
Replace beef with cooked lentils and increase the amount of mixed vegetables, adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
Cheesy Vegetable Bake
Use the mashed potato topping but mix in different cheeses like mozzarella and feta, and add spinach or kale to the vegetable mixture.
Sweet Potato Mash Topped Casserole
Try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter, healthier twist on the traditional mash.
Spicy Beef and Bean Bake
Incorporate canned kidney beans into the beef mixture and add chili powder or paprika to spice things up, then top with the mashed potatoes.
