Hearty Beef and Root Vegetable Bake with Cheddar Topping
This hearty bake is a perfect dish for a chilly March evening, offering warmth and robust flavors. Succulent pieces of beef are slow-cooked with carrots, potatoes, and parsnips in a savory gravy, then topped with a generous layer of sharp cheddar cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. It's a complete meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare ahead of time.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Season beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- 2Add chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- 3Gradually whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer, then stir in dried thyme, paprika, and the browned beef. Add carrots, potatoes, and parsnips to the pot. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.
- 4Cover the Dutch oven and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the beef is very tender and vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally during baking.
- 5Remove from the oven, uncover, and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven (uncovered) and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and lightly golden. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with cheese, and bake as directed, adding about 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time if starting from cold.
What other vegetables can I add?
Sweet potatoes, celery, or even some frozen peas (added in the last 15 minutes of baking) would be delicious additions. Just ensure they are cut to a similar size for even cooking.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can either add a bit more flour in step 2 or, after baking, remove some of the liquid, whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water, and stir it back into the pot over medium heat until thickened, before adding the cheese.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
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