Farmer’s Meat & Veg Casserole
This Farmer’s Meat & Veg Casserole is the definition of hearty comfort food—savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy sauce all baked together under a layer of golden, melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aroma and leaves everyone happily full.

It’s a versatile, all-in-one dinner perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday suppers, or bringing to a potluck. Packed with wholesome ingredients and layers of flavor, this casserole is rustic, satisfying, and wonderfully easy to make.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Casserole Base:

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 2 medium carrots, sliced

  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen green beans, chopped

  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

  • ½ cup beef broth

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.

2. Cook the Meat & Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion together until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

3. Add the Vegetables & Sauce
Stir in the carrots, potatoes, green beans, and corn. Add the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

4. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover with aluminum foil.

5. Bake & Add the Cheese
Bake covered for 35 minutes, or until the vegetables are nearly tender. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top, and return to the oven for 10 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve
Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving for easier scooping.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Calories: ~380 kcal per serving
Servings: 6

The Origin of Farmer’s Meat & Veg Casserole
This dish takes its inspiration from old-fashioned farm cooking, where hearty, filling meals had to fuel long days of work. Combining meat, seasonal vegetables, and pantry staples in one baking dish made for a practical and satisfying family dinner. It’s a recipe that has evolved through generations but still holds the same promise—wholesome comfort and plenty of flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

  • All-in-One Meal: Protein, starch, and vegetables all in one dish.

  • Creamy & Savory: The sauce binds everything together for rich flavor in every bite.

  • Easy to Customize: Swap vegetables to suit the season or your pantry.

  • Crowd-Pleaser: Familiar flavors make it a hit with all ages.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Dice the potatoes small so they cook evenly.

  • Use sharp cheddar for more pronounced flavor.

  • If using frozen vegetables, thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.

  • For extra richness, stir in 2 tbsp sour cream before baking.

Variations

  • Ground Turkey or Chicken: A lighter option that still delivers great flavor.

  • Veggie-Heavy: Double the vegetables and skip the meat for a vegetarian version (use cream of celery or cream of potato soup).

  • Herb Boost: Add fresh parsley or rosemary for extra aroma.

  • Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different melt and taste.

Make Ahead & Storage

  • Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze assembled (unbaked) or baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.

Serving Ideas
Serve with:

  • A fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette

  • Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread

  • Pickled beets or coleslaw for a bright contrast

Final Thoughts
This Farmer’s Meat & Veg Casserole is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. It’s cozy, filling, and made with love—just like the old days. Whether you’re feeding your family or friends, it’s a dependable, delicious recipe that will leave plates clean and hearts happy.