This corned beef casserole is a warm, hearty dish that brings comfort in every bite. It’s filled with tender corned beef, creamy cheese, and fluffy potatoes.
What’s more fun is the easy prep! Just layer everything, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. It’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef: Shredded or chopped corned beef is the star of this casserole. If you don’t have corned beef, you could use leftover roast beef or even cooked chicken for a different twist.
Bread: White bread works great for this dish, but feel free to use whole wheat or sourdough for added flavor. Just make sure to remove the crusts for the best texture!
Cheeses: I like the combination of cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey, melty result. Monterey Jack or pepper jack could also work well if you want a little kick.
Milk & Cream: Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can substitute with skim milk for lighter options. If you’re avoiding dairy, a plant-based milk with a bit of extra fat, like coconut milk, can do the trick.
Eggs: The eggs help set the casserole. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try a mix of ground flaxseed and water (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
How Can You Ensure the Perfectly Absorbed Bread Mixture?
The bread cubes need to soak in the egg mixture for the best results. To do this, after mixing in the bread, let it sit for about 10 minutes. This gives the bread enough time to absorb the liquid.
- Gently toss the bread to ensure all pieces are coated.
- If you want extra flavor, consider adding herbs or spices to the mixture before soaking.
This soaking step is key to achieving that rich, custardy texture throughout your casserole. Don’t rush it!
How to Make Corned Beef Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked corned beef, shredded or chopped
- 8 slices white bread, crusts removed and cut into cubes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This corned beef casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and then 40-50 minutes to bake. It’s a great option for a comforting meal that you can prepare ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, melted butter, minced garlic, mustard powder (if using), salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined. This will create a creamy base for your casserole.
3. Soak the Bread:
Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture, tossing gently to coat them well. Allow this to sit for about 10 minutes so the bread can soak up the liquid. This step is crucial for getting that lovely, custardy texture!
4. Combine the Goodies:
Stir in the finely chopped onion, shredded corned beef, and 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the egg and bread mixture. Mix it all together until everything is evenly distributed.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Pour the mixture into your greased casserole dish and spread it evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly.
6. Add Final Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top of the casserole. If you like a little crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese layer as well before baking.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and make sure the casserole is set in the center. This is when the wonderful aromas will fill your kitchen!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps set the layers nicely.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Then it’s time to dig in and enjoy this delicious, hearty meal!
Can I Use Leftover Corned Beef for This Casserole?
Absolutely! Leftover corned beef works perfectly in this casserole. Just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the mixture for a quick and delicious meal.
Can I Substitute the Cream and Milk?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with skim milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. For the heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or a light sour cream for a slightly different flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through; adding a splash of milk can help revive the creaminess if it seems dry.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Definitely! You can mix everything together the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven for even cooking.
