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Beef Baked with Potatoes – Simple Oven Comfort Food

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Introduction

Beef Baked with Potatoes is a classic one-pan meal where tender beef and hearty potatoes cook together in the oven, soaking up savory juices and seasonings. Simple, filling, and deeply comforting, it’s the kind of dish that feels like home.

Origin

Oven-baked meat and potatoes has roots in traditional European and American farmhouse cooking, where slow baking transformed inexpensive cuts into nourishing family meals using minimal ingredients.

Cultural Significance

This dish represents everyday comfort food—practical, affordable, and satisfying. It’s a staple in family kitchens, often passed down through generations as a reliable dinner solution.

Ingredients and Quantities

  • 900 g (2 lbs) beef chuck, round steak, or stew beef
  • 900 g (2 lbs) potatoes, peeled and sliced
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 1½ cups beef broth
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Additions

  • Carrots or parsnips
  • Mushrooms
  • Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp)
  • Splash of cream at the end

Tips for Success

  1. Use a Tougher Cut: Long baking makes it tender.
  2. Slice Potatoes Evenly: Ensures uniform cooking.
  3. Cover Tightly: Keeps moisture locked in.
  4. Rest Before Serving: Juices redistribute.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat to 180°C (350°F). Grease a large baking dish.
  3. Season Beef:
    • Toss beef with olive oil, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. Layer Dish:
    • Arrange potatoes and onions in baking dish.
    • Place seasoned beef on top.
  7. Add Liquid:
    • Pour beef broth evenly over dish.
  9. Bake:
    • Cover tightly with foil.
    • Bake 1 hour 30 minutes.
  11. Uncover & Finish:
    • Remove foil and bake another 20–30 minutes until golden and tender.
  13. Serve:
    • Rest 10 minutes before serving.

Description

The beef becomes fork-tender while the potatoes absorb rich, savory juices. Each bite is warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying with simple, familiar flavors.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 460 kcal
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated fat: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg

Conclusion

Beef Baked with Potatoes is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible comfort. It’s a no-fuss, dependable dish that delivers every time.

Recommendation

Serve with crusty bread, buttered peas, or a simple green salad. Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Choose lean beef, add extra vegetables, or reduce oil to enjoy this comforting dish while keeping it balanced and nourishing.

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