Cheddar Biscuit Beef Casserole

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Dinner

Cheddar Biscuit Beef Casserole: Juicy, Creamy Delight!

Sensory-Rich Introduction with Immediate Craving

Imagine a cozy evening, the aroma of savory beef wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the buttery scent of freshly baked cheddar biscuits. This Cheddar Biscuit Beef Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly night, a dish that brings families together around the dinner table. I remember the first time I made this casserole for my friends during a game night. The laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the delighted exclamations as they dug into the creamy, hearty layers of beef and biscuits created an unforgettable atmosphere. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply a comforting weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Biscuit Beef Casserole

  • Texture Contrast: The creamy beef filling pairs beautifully with the flaky, golden biscuit topping, creating a delightful contrast that keeps each bite interesting.
  • Flavor Balance: The savory richness of the beef and vegetables is perfectly complemented by the sharpness of the cheddar, making every mouthful a flavor explosion.
  • Versatility: This casserole can be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices, allowing you to make it your own.
  • Ease of Preparation: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
  • Universal Appeal: Loved by both kids and adults, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.

Essential Tools & Preparation Strategy

  • Large Skillet: Essential for browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables evenly.
  • 9×13 Inch Baking Dish: Perfectly sized to hold all the delicious layers of the casserole.
  • Mixing Bowls: Necessary for preparing the biscuit dough and combining the beef filling.
  • Whisk: Useful for mixing dry ingredients and ensuring a smooth biscuit batter.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Important for accurate ingredient measurements to achieve the best results.
  • Spatula: Ideal for transferring the beef mixture to the baking dish and spreading the biscuit topping evenly.
  • Oven Thermometer: Ensures your oven is at the correct temperature for perfect baking.
  • Cooling Rack: Allows the casserole to rest after baking, enhancing flavor melding.

Ingredients & Their Roles in This Cheddar Biscuit Beef Casserole

For the Beef Filling:

  • Ground Beef: The hearty base of the casserole, providing protein and richness.
  • Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • Garlic: Enhances the savory profile with its aromatic qualities.
  • Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Contributes color, nutrition, and texture.
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creates a creamy, savory sauce that binds the filling together.
  • Beef Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the beef flavor.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Provides umami and a hint of tanginess.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.

For the Biscuit Topping:

  • All-Purpose Flour: The base for the biscuit dough, providing structure.
  • Baking Powder: Leavens the biscuits, making them light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Balances the flavors in the biscuits.
  • Cold Unsalted Butter: Creates flakiness in the biscuits.
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, tangy flavor to the topping.
  • Milk: Hydrates the dough and helps bind the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Cheddar Biscuit Beef Casserole

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 lb of ground beef with 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is no longer pink.
  3. Add Vegetables and Sauce: Stir in 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup of beef broth, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
  4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the beef mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  5. Prepare Biscuit Dough: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Cut in 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
  6. Combine with Milk: Gradually add 3/4 cup of milk, mixing until just combined to form the biscuit dough.
  7. Top the Casserole: Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the beef mixture, covering it evenly.
  8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
  9. Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips for Flawless Results

  • Make-Ahead Instructions: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bake when ready to serve.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
  • Equipment Recommendations: A cast-iron skillet can enhance the browning of the beef and add flavor.
  • Customization Options: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version or add your favorite spices for an extra kick.

Avoid These Common Cooking Mistakes

  • Using Lean Ground Beef: This can lead to a dry filling. Opt for ground beef with some fat content for juiciness.
  • Overmixing the Biscuit Dough: This can result in tough biscuits. Mix just until combined.
  • Not Preheating the Oven: This can affect baking time and texture. Always preheat for best results.
  • Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the casserole rest allows flavors to meld. Don’t skip this step.
  • Using Too Much Liquid: This can make the filling soupy. Measure carefully to maintain the right consistency.
  • Not Greasing the Baking Dish: This can cause sticking. Always grease to ensure easy serving.
  • Overbaking the Biscuits: This can lead to dry biscuits. Keep an eye on them and remove when golden.

Creative Variations & Customizations

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
  • Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a fresh twist.
  • Cheesy Biscuits: Mix in additional cheese into the biscuit dough for an extra cheesy topping.
  • Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the beef filling for an aromatic flavor boost.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Cheddar Biscuit Beef Casserole

  • Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that balances the richness of the casserole.
  • Garden Salad: A fresh salad dressed with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
  • Mashed Potatoes: For an extra hearty meal, serve with creamy mashed potatoes.
  • Pickles or Jalapeños: A tangy kick that complements the savory flavors.
  • Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
  • Sauvignon Blanc: A light white wine that pairs beautifully with the dish.
  • Corn on the Cob: A classic comfort food experience that adds sweetness.
  • Sour Cream: A dollop on top adds creaminess and tang.
  • Fruit Salad: A sweet finish to the meal that cleanses the palate.
  • Coleslaw: Adds a crunchy texture contrast to the casserole.

Storage & Meal Prep Instructions

  • Fridge Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
  • Freezer Storage: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
  • Reheating Methods: For best results, reheat in the oven. Microwave can be used but may result in sogginess.

Nutrition Facts & Health Insights

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1/6 of casserole)
Calories 450
Sugar 3 grams
Sodium 800 milligrams
Fat 25 grams
Saturated Fat 12 grams
Unsaturated Fat 10 grams
Trans Fat 1 gram
Carbohydrates 35 grams
Fiber 2 grams
Protein 20 grams
Cholesterol 70 milligrams

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

  • Ground Beef: A great source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, contributing to bone health.
  • Vegetables: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, promoting overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter option.
  2. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup? You can use homemade cream sauce or a different cream soup variety.
  3. How do I prevent the biscuits from becoming tough? Mix the biscuit dough just until combined and avoid overworking it.
  4. Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, it freezes well before baking. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
  5. What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch baking dish? Any similar-sized baking dish will work; just adjust cooking time if necessary.
  6. How long can I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  7. Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies.
  8. What’s the best way to reheat the casserole? Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or microwave if in a hurry.
  9. Is this casserole gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour for the biscuit topping to make it gluten-free.
  10. How can I make this dish spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Final Inspiration & Kitchen Confidence

As you prepare this Cheddar Biscuit Beef Casserole, remember that cooking is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating memories and sharing love through food. Celebrate your culinary achievements, no matter how small, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients. You’ve got this! Now, gather your loved ones, serve up this comforting dish, and enjoy the warmth and joy it brings to your table. Happy cooking!

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Cheddar Biscuit Beef Casserole: Juicy, Creamy Delight!


  • Author: Laura
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

Indulge in the comforting layers of Cheddar Biscuit Beef Casserole, where tender ground beef melds with a creamy, savory sauce, topped with golden, flaky cheddar biscuits. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, from the rich, hearty filling to the light, buttery biscuit topping, creating a satisfying flavor experience that warms the soul.


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Beef Filling:
    • 1 lb ground beef
    • 1 medium onion, diced
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
    • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
    • 1/2 cup beef broth
    • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • For the Biscuit Topping:
    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 tbsp baking powder
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
    • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    • 3/4 cup milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
  4. Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the biscuit topping.
  6. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cheddar cheese.
  7. Add the milk gradually, mixing until just combined.
  8. Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the beef mixture, covering it evenly.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
  10. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef and use low-fat cream of mushroom soup.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: main-dish
  • Method: baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3 grams
  • Sodium: 800 milligrams
  • Fat: 25 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 12 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
  • Trans Fat: 1 gram
  • Carbohydrates: 35 grams
  • Fiber: 2 grams
  • Protein: 20 grams
  • Cholesterol: 70 milligrams

Keywords: Cheddar Biscuit Beef Casserole, comfort food, casserole recipes, beef casserole, biscuit topping, easy dinner, family meal, hearty casserole, creamy beef dish, cheddar biscuits, ground beef recipes, one-dish meal, American cuisine

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