Cassolet de Bœuf Ange (Beef Casserole)
🍴 Serves: 4-6
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 2 hours
✅ Ingredients:
For the Beef Stew:
1.5 lbs (700g) beef chuck, cut into cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
1 large potato, peeled and cubed
1 cup red wine
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Casserole:
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Stew:
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add the carrots, potato, and tomato paste, stirring well. Cook for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Return the beef to the pot, then add the beef broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1.5 hours, until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
2. Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Add the frozen peas and green beans to the pot, stirring to combine.
If you want the sauce to be thicker, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry, then stir it into the casserole and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until thickened.
3. Bake:
Transfer the beef mixture to a casserole dish and spread it evenly.
Dot the top with butter and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is slightly golden and bubbly.
4. Serve:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. The casserole can be served as is or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
📝 Tips:
Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off version, you can cook the beef stew in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours instead of simmering on the stove.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, parsnips, or turnips to the casserole for extra flavor.
Serve with Rice or Potatoes: The casserole can be served with a side of rice or mashed potatoes to make the meal more filling.
Cassolet de Bœuf Ange is a perfect comfort dish, offering deep, savory flavors, tender beef, and hearty vegetables. The casserole is rich and satisfying, ideal for colder weather or a special family meal. Enjoy!