Beef Casserole with Creamy Sauce

Name: Beef Casserole with Creamy Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into cubes; 1 cup onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons flour; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Heartwarming Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love making Beef Casserole with Creamy Sauce for my family, especially on chilly evenings. The tender beef combined with a rich and creamy sauce creates a cozy dish that fills our home with warmth and delicious aroma. This casserole is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Every bite is packed with flavor, and I find myself often adjusting the spices to suit our taste preferences, making it a versatile recipe we can make again and again.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:50:28.700Z

As I ventured into the kitchen one frosty evening, I knew I wanted to create something comforting and hearty. Using leftover beef from the previous night, I started experimenting with a creamy sauce that culminated in a delicious casserole. I discovered that a splash of Worcestershire sauce added depth to the dish, while a blend of cheeses created a rich, melty topping that my family couldn't resist.

After testing different cooking times and methods, I found that allowing the casserole to bake longer led to a delightful melding of flavors. This dish not only satisfies our hunger but also brings us together for a cozy family meal that I look forward to serving time and again.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Tender beef smothered in a luscious creamy sauce
Easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A comforting dish that brings the family together

      

Choosing the Right Beef

For this Beef Casserole with Creamy Sauce, selecting the right cut of beef is essential for achieving tenderness and flavor. I recommend using beef stew meat, which typically comes from tougher cuts like chuck or round. These cuts break down beautifully during the cooking process, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you're in a pinch, you could substitute with brisket or even sirloin, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary due to differences in fat content.

When browning the beef, aim for a well-seared exterior, which should take about 5-7 minutes at medium heat. This step not only locks in flavor but also enhances the overall richness of the sauce. Look for a deep brown color that indicates a good caramelization; don’t rush this process, as it truly adds depth to your casserole.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is what makes this casserole stand out. When mixing the flour with the sautéed vegetables, ensure that you cook it for at least a minute to eliminate the raw flavor of the flour. Gradually whisking in the beef broth helps prevent clumping and guarantees a smooth, velvety sauce. If you find it too thick, you can always add a bit more broth or a splash of milk for your desired consistency.

Sour cream is the star of the sauce, contributing a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the cheese. Make sure to stir it in over low heat after removing the sauce from the burner to prevent curdling. If you're looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for sour cream, maintaining that desired creaminess.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Once your casserole is baked and bubbly, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and makes the casserole easier to serve. I love pairing this dish with crusty bread or a simple side salad to balance the richness. For an added touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley or green onions on top for color and freshness.

If you have leftovers, this casserole holds up well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply cover it with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze portions in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients to prepare for a delicious Beef Casserole with Creamy Sauce.

Main Ingredients

2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into cubes
1 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons flour
Salt and pepper, to taste

You can customize the ingredients by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to your preference.

Instructions

Get ready to create your flavorful Beef Casserole with Creamy Sauce by following these simple steps.

Prepare the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the beef stew meat over medium heat until it's nicely seared on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir. Gradually add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and simmer until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in sour cream and half of the cheddar cheese.

Combine and Bake

In a greased casserole dish, combine the browned beef and creamy sauce. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, until bubbly.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the layers set nicely.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor. Additionally, using leftover roast beef can save preparation time and add depth to the taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

It’s easy to customize this casserole based on what you have at home or dietary needs. For a healthier alternative, consider using lean ground beef or turkey instead of stew meat. Just remember that ground meat cooks faster, so adjust your browning time accordingly to about 5-6 minutes until browned.

If you're looking to add more vegetables, diced carrots or peas can be tossed in during the sautéing stage for added nutrition and flavor. For a dairy-free version, try substituting the sour cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives; just ensure they are suitable for melting in casseroles.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your casserole comes out too dry, it might be due to overcooking. To prevent this, always check the beef after the recommended baking time and consider covering it with foil for the first half of baking. This will trap moisture, ensuring a juicy beef casserole.

Another common issue is a runny sauce. If you find your sauce to be too runny after mixing in the broth, simply simmer it longer on low heat until it thickens to your liking. Adding an extra tablespoon of flour while continuously stirring can also help achieve your desired thickness without compromising the flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is quite adaptable and can easily be scaled up or down based on your needs. For a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as a larger quantity may require an extra 10-15 minutes in the oven.

If you're cooking for one or two, consider making a half-batch and enjoy leftovers. You can also prepare the dish in individual ramekins for easier serving and reheating later. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly since smaller portions will cook faster.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, chicken or pork can be used as a substitute for beef.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, refrigerate, and then bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It's great on its own but pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.