Indulge in a culinary journey to Italy with our mouthwatering Beef Marsala and Scalloped Potato Casserole! This delightful dish combines tender, cubed beef simmered in rich Marsala wine with layers of creamy, scalloped potatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them begging for seconds. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this savory masterpiece that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef, cubed
- 1 cup Marsala wine
- 4 cups scalloped potatoes
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a large casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Season the cubed beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring each piece develops a rich golden-brown crust. Transfer the browned beef to a separate plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onions until they become translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Deglaze the skillet with Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce by half.
- Add beef broth to the skillet and return the browned beef to the pan. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop deeper flavors.
- Layer the bottom of the casserole dish with half of the scalloped potatoes, creating an even base.
- Pour the beef and Marsala mixture over the potato layer, ensuring even distribution.
- Top with the remaining scalloped potatoes, creating a complete covering over the beef.
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potato top becomes golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme if desired, and serve hot directly from the casserole dish.
Tips
- Choose Quality Beef: For the best flavor and tenderness, opt for a well-marbled cut of beef, such as chuck or sirloin. This will ensure your casserole is juicy and full of flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time when browning the beef. A good sear adds depth and richness to the dish, so avoid overcrowding the skillet to achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Let the Wine Reduce: Allowing the Marsala wine to reduce by half intensifies its flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your casserole. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, savory sauce.
- Layer Wisely: When layering the scalloped potatoes, make sure to spread them evenly for consistent cooking. This helps ensure every bite is deliciously creamy and flavorful.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken, making each serving even more delightful.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 412kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
