Comfort Food: Tomato 'n' Beef Casserole with Polenta Crust

There's nothing quite like a hearty casserole to bring warmth and comfort to the dinner table. One dish that stands out is the Tomato 'n' Beef Casserole with Polenta Crust—a delightful combination of rich ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and a golden polenta crust that provides the perfect balance of textures and flavors. 

This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or special family gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Hearty: The combination of ground beef and tomatoes creates a deeply savory filling.

• Simple Yet Elegant: The polenta crust adds a gourmet touch while keeping the preparation straightforward.

• Versatile and Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to match dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: This casserole can be prepared in advance and baked when needed.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

For the Polenta Crust:

• 2 cups water

• 2 cups whole milk (or use broth for extra flavor)

• 1 cup cornmeal

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons butter

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned.

4. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the crushed and diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

5. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese.

Step 2: Prepare the Polenta Crust

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water and milk to a gentle boil.

2. Slowly whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

3. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring often, until the polenta thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Stir in salt, butter, and mozzarella cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

3. Carefully spoon the polenta over the top, smoothing it into an even layer.

4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the polenta is set and slightly golden.

5. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. For extra richness, drizzle with olive oil or sprinkle additional cheese on top before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make-Ahead: Prepare the beef filling and polenta separately, then assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or use sautéed mushrooms and lentils for a hearty meat-free version.

2. What if I don’t have cornmeal?

You can use pre-made polenta or even mashed potatoes for a different take on the crust.

3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to peel and dice about 4-5 large tomatoes. Cooking time may increase slightly to allow the fresh tomatoes to break down.

4. How do I make the polenta extra creamy?

Use half-and-half instead of milk and add a bit of heavy cream or extra butter at the end.

5. Can I add other cheeses?

Definitely! Try Gruyère, cheddar, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Tomato 'n' Beef Casserole with Polenta Crust is the perfect dish to warm up any meal. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or entertaining guests, it’s sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this ultimate casserole dish!