Beef and Swiss Casserole

This Beef and Swiss Casserole is a comforting, savory dish that layers ground beef, sautéed onions, rye bread cubes, and Swiss cheese, all soaked in a rich beef broth. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 slices rye bread, cubed
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 2 cups beef broth

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to season the beef mixture.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the bread cubes, followed by half of the beef mixture, and then half of the shredded Swiss cheese. Repeat the layers.
5. Pour the beef broth evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
2. Cheese Variations: Try substituting Swiss cheese with cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
3. Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or some sliced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a bit of heat.
4. Herb Additions: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
5. Additional Veggies: Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a more colorful and nutritious casserole.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole the day before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day according to the directions.
2. Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, you can use other types of bread like white, sourdough, or whole wheat. Rye bread adds a unique flavor, but any bread will work.
3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef, though the flavor may be slightly milder.
4. What can I serve with this casserole? This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
5. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
6. How can I make this dish spicier? Add some hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
7. Can I make this casserole in a smaller or larger dish? Yes, you can adjust the size of the baking dish to fit your needs. If using a smaller dish, adjust the cooking time accordingly, and if using a larger dish, you may need to reduce the cooking time.
8. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder? Yes, you can use 2-3 cloves of fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a more intense garlic flavor.
9. What if the casserole is too dry? If the casserole seems dry before baking, add a little more beef broth before covering it and baking.
10. How do I know when the casserole is done? The casserole is done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. The beef mixture should be heated through, and the bread should have absorbed the broth.

Conclusion

This Beef and Swiss Casserole is an easy, satisfying dish that combines the flavors of savory beef, onions, Swiss cheese, and rye bread. Perfect for a hearty family meal, it’s versatile enough for different variations to suit your taste. Whether you’re making it for dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Print