Ah, comfort food! There’s just something about a warm, hearty meal that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. One of my absolute favorites is this beef mince and sherry casserole. It’s not just any casserole; it’s a delightful blend of rich flavors that come together beautifully in one pot. The sherry adds a touch of sophistication and depth, making it feel a little special while still being wonderfully easy to prepare. I remember the first time I made this recipe for my family. The aroma wafting through the house had everyone gathering at the kitchen table, excited for dinner. It became a regular at our family gatherings because it’s so comforting and filling. Plus, it’s fantastic for those busy weeknights when you want something warm and satisfying without too much fuss. Trust me, once you try this beef mince and sherry casserole, you’ll want to add it to your recipe rotation. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together and warms the soul!

Ingredients for Beef Mince and Sherry Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious beef mince and sherry casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 500g beef mince: This is the star of the dish, providing that rich, hearty flavor we love.
• 1 onion, chopped: A classic base for flavor, the onion adds sweetness as it caramelizes.
• 2 carrots, diced: They add a nice texture and a hint of sweetness to balance the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• 200ml sherry: This is where the magic happens! The sherry adds a lovely richness and sophistication.
• 400g canned tomatoes: They provide moisture and tang, making the casserole deliciously comforting.
• 1 cup beef broth: A flavorful liquid that enhances the dish and keeps it moist while baking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the onions and vegetables, helping to create a beautiful base.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all those lovely flavors.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb adds an earthy note that complements the meat perfectly.
• 1 bay leaf: Just one leaf infuses the casserole with a subtle, aromatic flavor.
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (for topping): Creamy and fluffy, they create a comforting blanket over the casserole.

Feel free to adjust these ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. For example, you can swap the beef mince for turkey or even lentils for a lighter version. It’s all about making it your own!

How to Prepare Beef Mince and Sherry Casserole

Now that we have all our delicious ingredients ready, let’s get started on preparing this comforting beef mince and sherry casserole. I promise, it’s simpler than it looks, and you’ll love how everything comes together!

Prepping the Ingredients

First things first—let’s prep our ingredients. Start by chopping the onion into small pieces. This is where I like to keep a sharp knife handy; it makes the job easier and safer. Next, take those lovely carrots and dice them into bite-sized pieces. The smaller they are, the quicker they’ll cook, which is perfect for this dish. For the garlic, simply mince those two cloves until they’re fragrant. Oh, the aroma will be divine! Now, it’s time to measure out the beef mince, broth, and sherry. If you’re using canned tomatoes, have them ready to pour in as well. Remember, safety first! Keep your workspace tidy as you go to avoid any accidents.

Cooking Instructions

Alright, let’s dive into the cooking! Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s nice and warm when the casserole’s ready. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot (but not smoking!), toss in the chopped onion. Cook it until it’s soft and translucent—about 5 minutes should do the trick. Then, add the minced garlic and diced carrots, letting them sauté together for another 5 minutes. This builds a beautiful flavor base!

Now, it’s time to add the beef mince. Stir it in and cook until it’s browned all over. Don’t rush this part; it really enhances the flavor. Once browned, pour in the sherry, canned tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir in the dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This is when all those wonderful flavors meld together, so resist the urge to skip this step! After simmering, transfer the mixture into a casserole dish, spread those fluffy mashed potatoes over the top, and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your family will be eager to dig in!

Tips for Success

To really nail this beef mince and sherry casserole, here are a few tips that have helped me along the way. First, make sure to brown the beef mince well—don’t rush it! This step adds so much flavor and depth to your casserole. If you find the mixture too thick while simmering, don’t hesitate to add a splash more beef broth or even water to keep it moist and flavorful.

Also, when it comes to the mashed potatoes, I like to use a bit of butter or cream for extra creaminess. If you’re using leftovers or instant mashed potatoes, just be cautious about the water content so it doesn’t get too runny. Lastly, let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking—this helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s take a look at the estimated nutritional information for this comforting beef mince and sherry casserole. Each serving contains approximately:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and any substitutions you make. It’s a hearty meal that provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, perfect for a filling dinner. Enjoy knowing you’re serving something not only delicious but also nourishing!

Variations of Beef Mince and Sherry Casserole

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to mix things up with this beef mince and sherry casserole! For a lighter twist, why not substitute the beef mince with turkey mince or even plant-based lentils? It’s a great way to keep the comforting essence while making it a bit healthier.

You can also play with the vegetables—adding peas, green beans, or even mushrooms will provide extra texture and flavor. If you’re a fan of spices, try stirring in a dash of smoked paprika or chili powder for a little kick. And don’t forget about cheese! A sprinkle of cheddar on top of the mashed potatoes before baking adds a lovely richness. The beauty of this casserole is its versatility; feel free to get creative and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions

This beef mince and sherry casserole is a hearty dish on its own, but pairing it with a few sides can elevate your meal to the next level. I love serving it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the casserole perfectly! You could also consider some crusty bread or warm rolls for that extra comfort factor. They’re great for soaking up any delicious juices left on your plate!

If you want to add some veggies to the mix, steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts make fantastic accompaniments, providing a lovely pop of color and nutrition. And for those chilly evenings, a warm bowl of creamy butternut squash soup before the casserole can be just the thing to warm you right up. Trust me, your family will love this combination, and it makes for a truly comforting meal! Enjoy!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers from your beef mince and sherry casserole is simple and ensures you can enjoy this delicious meal again! First, let the casserole cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’s best to store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is key to keeping that comforting flavor. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. Just be cautious, as microwaves can sometimes make things uneven. Enjoy your cozy meal all over again!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of meat for this casserole?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option, turkey mince works wonderfully in this beef mince and sherry casserole. You can also use plant-based options like lentils or chickpeas if you’re looking for a vegetarian version.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
You’ll want to look for that beautiful golden brown top on the mashed potatoes. It usually takes about 30 minutes in the oven. If it’s bubbling and the potatoes are slightly crispy on top, you’re good to go!

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this is a fantastic make-ahead dish! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What should I do if the casserole seems too dry?
If you find that your casserole is a bit dry, don’t worry! Just add a splash of beef broth or water before baking. This will keep it moist and delicious without compromising the flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely! Once cooled, transfer the casserole to a freezer-safe container and it will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Comforting Beef Mince and Sherry Casserole for 4

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A hearty beef mince and sherry casserole that warms the soul.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500g beef mince
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 200ml sherry
• 400g canned tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until soft.
4. Add garlic and carrots, and cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Add beef mince and cook until browned.
6. Pour in sherry, canned tomatoes, and beef broth.
7. Add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
8. Let it simmer for 20 minutes.
9. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
10. Top with mashed potatoes and spread evenly.
11. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Notes

• You can substitute beef mince with turkey or lentils for a lighter option.
• Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans.
• This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: beef mince, sherry casserole, comfort food, easy recipe