Shipwreck Beef Bean Casserole

Shipwreck Casserole is an old-school classic that turns humble pantry staples into pure comfort. Layers of beef, creamy potatoes, hearty beans, sweet corn, and tangy tomatoes all bake together in one dish for a low-prep dinner that warms everyone up.

I found this recipe in my grandmother’s handwritten cookbook and now make it anytime a cozy rainy day calls for something nostalgic.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: brings rich flavor and protein to every forkful Choose 80 percent lean for the best balance of juiciness
• Chopped onion: adds sweetness and depth Yellow or white onions work equally well
• Medium potatoes: sliced thin for even cooking Yukon Golds hold their shape nicely and stay buttery
• Canned diced tomatoes: give acidity and moisture San Marzano variety if available for a more robust sauce
• Red kidney beans: bulk up the meal with protein and fiber Look for beans with shiny skins no mushiness
• Corn kernels: add sweetness and pop Frozen or fresh cut from the cob work equally well
• Beef broth: ties everything together Look for low sodium if you want to control the salt
• Chili powder, salt and pepper: build classic flavor Use your favorite chili blend for personality and warmth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:

Brown ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat in a skillet stirring and breaking up the meat until completely browned and soft This step builds foundational flavor and allows excess fat to be drained away

Assemble the Layers:

Grease a 23 by 33 cm casserole dish Arrange a layer of thin potato slices first overlapping to cover the bottom Scatter the browned beef and onions evenly over the potatoes Spoon over drained kidney beans then scatter corn kernels Finish with canned diced tomatoes pouring all the juices over Season each layer gently as you go with salt pepper and chili powder

Add Broth and Bake:

Pour beef broth evenly over the top Cover tightly with foil to trap steam which helps tenderize the potatoes Bake in a preheated 180 Celsius oven for forty five minutes

Finish Baking:

Remove the foil and continue to bake for another fifteen minutes until the top is bubbling and the potatoes are fork tender For a crispier finish bake uncovered a bit longer

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My favorite part is that layer of potatoes right on top that gets a little golden I remember scooping out a serving as a kid and always hoping for an extra helping of potatoes on my plate To this day my family dives straight for the top layer just like I did

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before refrigerating Store in an airtight container for up to four days You can reheat individual servings in the microwave or cover the baking dish with foil and warm in the oven at low heat If you want to freeze wrap the cooled casserole tightly and freeze for up to three months Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness and color Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef if you want a lighter dish Pinto beans or black beans work in place of kidney beans If you do not have beef broth vegetable broth will still taste hearty

Serving Suggestions

This casserole stands on its own but it goes well with a sharp green salad and crusty bread If you want to make it a little fancier top with shredded cheddar cheese ten minutes before the end of baking Just let it melt and bubble

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History of Shipwreck Casserole

This dish has roots in Depression era cooking when families stretched a pound of meat into a full meal Layered casseroles like this turned simple ingredients into comfort food and have been passed down through generations I love seeing how each family tweaks theirs with whatever is on hand

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Ensure the beef broth you use is certified gluten-free. All other ingredients in the dish are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I use a different meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef for a lighter variation.

→ What can I use instead of potatoes?

Sweet potatoes or even thinly sliced zucchini work well for a twist on the original layers.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until steaming hot.

→ Is cheese necessary in this dish?

Cheese is optional. Add shredded cheese during the last ten minutes of baking for a creamy, golden topping.