Creamy Bison & Barley Bake
A comforting and hearty bake featuring lean ground bison, tender pearl barley, and a medley of carrots and celery in a rich, creamy sauce. This casserole is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, offering satisfying flavors and a delicious texture.
Ingredients
- •1 lb Ground Bison (lean)
- •1 cup Pearl Barley (rinsed)
- •1 tbsp Olive Oil
- •1 medium Yellow Onion (diced)
- •2 medium Carrots (diced)
- •2 large Celery Stalks (diced)
- •3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- •2 cups Beef Broth
- •1 cup Half and Half
- •1 tsp Dried Thyme
- •1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
- •0.5 tsp Black Pepper (or to taste)
- •2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish (optional))
Instructions
- 1.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Time: 5 min - 2.
In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground bison and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat and set the bison aside.
Time: 7 min - 3.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot (add a little more oil if needed). Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Time: 7 min - 4.
Stir in the rinsed pearl barley, beef broth, half and half, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then return the cooked bison to the pot, stirring to combine.
Time: 5 min - 5.
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
Time: 2 min - 6.
Bake for 25 minutes, or until the barley is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking if you prefer a slightly crisper top. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Time: 25 min - 7.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Time: 1 min
Tips
- 💡For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a quarter cup of dry red wine to the vegetables before adding the broth.
- 💡If you like a cheesy topping, sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- 💡Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Recipe from TheCookbook.ai
Created by Shannon Williams