Hearty Beef and Potato Fideo Casserole

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul with every spoonful? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Fideo with Potatoes and Beef. This hearty dish combines silky vermicelli pasta, tender chunks of beef, and hearty potatoes in a rich, tomato-infused broth that will transport you straight to your grandmother’s kitchen on a cozy afternoon.

I still remember the first time I made this fideo soup – it was the magic touch that finally convinced even the pickiest eaters in my family to enjoy potatoes without a fuss. The golden toasted noodles paired with the savory tomato base create a classic combination that’s sure to become a favorite among your loved ones too.

Whether you’re sharing a meal with friends or looking for a comforting solo dinner, this fideo with potatoes and beef is a heartwarming dish that never fails to impress. So, gather your ingredients, simmer up a pot of this Mexican-inspired soup, and get ready to experience a bowlful of pure comfort with every bite.

Quick Benefits

• Comforting and Satisfying: This fideo dish combines silky pasta, tender beef, and hearty potatoes in a tomato-rich broth for a comforting and soul-satisfying meal.
• Family Favorite: A classic dish loved by all ages, perfect for family gatherings or cozy lunches, making it a popular go-to recipe.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable with various protein options like chicken or turkey, or even as a vegetarian option by using vegetable broth and extra veggies for a lighter twist.
• Traditional and Flavorful: This recipe stays true to its Mexican roots with authentic ingredients and flavors, offering a taste of tradition in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Beef and Potato Fideo Casserole Recipe

• Soul-Satisfying Comfort: This recipe brings together silky pasta, tender beef, and hearty potatoes in a tomato-rich broth, perfect for a comforting meal that warms both body and soul.
• Family Favorite: A classic dish loved by families, the golden toasted noodles and rich tomato base make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Options: Easily customizable with swaps like using chicken or turkey instead of beef, varying the pasta type, or making it vegetarian by including extra veggies and vegetable broth.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings with friends and family, this hearty soup is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
• Make Ahead and Reheat: Convenient to store leftovers for up to four days, with tips on adding extra broth when reheating. Freezing is an option, though fresh is recommended for optimal texture.
• Traditional Touches: From toasting the noodles to garnishing with avocado, crema, and cilantro, this recipe captures the essence of authentic Mexican fideo with potatoes and beef.
• Balanced Meal: Served with lime, warm tortillas, and pickled jalapeños, or paired with a salad or grilled veggies, this dish offers a well-rounded and satisfying eating experience.
• Legendary Taste: A beloved recipe in the author’s family, the heartiness of potatoes, beef, and flavorful broth ensures every spoonful is filled with warmth and nostalgia.

Ingredients for Hearty Beef and Potato Fideo Casserole

Pasta

• 225 grams vermicelli pasta

Oils and Fats

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

Proteins

• 450 grams chuck beef steak, diced

Aromatics

• 120 grams onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Spices and Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.33 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano

Vegetables

• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 whole serrano pepper
• 2 small russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 roma tomatoes, quartered

Broth and Bouillon

• 3 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder or tomato bouillon powder
• 1.25 liters chicken broth or water

Herbs

• 8 sprigs fresh cilantro

Garnishes

• Mexican crema
• Sliced avocado
• Crumbled queso fresco

Pro Tips for Hearty Beef and Potato Fideo Casserole

Pro Tip 1: Toast the vermicelli pasta until golden brown before adding it to the soup to enhance its nutty flavor and texture.

Pro Tip 2: For a quicker option, consider using ground beef instead of diced chuck steak to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.

Pro Tip 3: Adjust the heat level by either slicing the serrano pepper for more spiciness or removing the seeds for a milder taste, catering to your preference.

How to Make Hearty Beef and Potato Fideo Casserole

Step 1: Toast Vermicelli

In a skillet, cook vermicelli pasta with olive oil over high heat until deeply golden and aromatic, stirring frequently. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Preheat a large pot over medium heat. Add diced beef, season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, and cook for 10 minutes until browned, stirring occasionally. Remove excess rendered fat.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Peppers

Add diced onion, red bell pepper, and whole serrano pepper to the cooked beef. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Potatoes and Garlic

Combine diced potatoes and minced garlic in the pan with a light sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare Tomato Mixture

Puree quartered tomatoes with 720 milliliters of broth, bouillon powder, and oregano until smooth while sautéing.

Step 6: Combine and Cook

Pour the blended tomato mixture into the pot. Add toasted vermicelli, cilantro sprigs, and remaining broth. Simmer for 8 minutes or until vermicelli and potatoes are cooked.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Discard cilantro and serrano pepper. Serve hot, topped with sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, and a drizzle of Mexican crema. Serve with warm corn tortillas or desired sides.

Storage Tips

After preparing the delicious Fideo with Potatoes and Beef, it’s important to store any leftovers properly. Place the cooked dish in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Remember that the noodles will continue to absorb some broth, so consider adding extra water or broth when reheating for the best consistency and flavor. While freezing is an option, note that the potatoes may become slightly mealy upon thawing, so fresh consumption is recommended whenever possible.

For a lighter variation of this dish, consider swapping the ground beef with diced chicken or ground turkey for reduced fat content. If vermicelli pasta is unavailable, you can use angel hair or thin spaghetti broken into pieces to achieve a similar texture. Additionally, to cater to vegetarian preferences, simply omit the beef and utilize vegetable broth instead, adding extra vegetables like peas or zucchini for a meatless yet satisfying meal option.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have vermicelli pasta on hand, you can easily substitute it with angel hair pasta or thin spaghetti broken into smaller pieces for a similar texture and taste in your Fideo with Potatoes and Beef dish. The key is to ensure the pasta cooks to a tender consistency in the broth.

While the recipe calls for diced chuck beef steak, feel free to swap it out with ground beef or stewing beef if that’s what you have available. Ground beef may give a different texture, while stewing beef could add a richer depth of flavor to your dish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your meat is tender and cooked through.

For those who prefer a spicier kick in their Fideo, you can slice the whole serrano pepper or add extra chiles to your desired level of heat. This way, you can tailor the spiciness of the dish to suit your taste preferences. Remember to adjust the quantity based on how spicy you like your food.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try garnishing your fideo with potatoes and beef with a dollop of zesty salsa verde for a burst of fresh flavor that complements the rich and comforting notes of the dish perfectly. The tangy salsa verde adds a vibrant touch and a hint of acidity that cuts through the richness of the broth, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Another serving idea is to top each bowl of fideo with a generous sprinkle of crispy tortilla strips for a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the tender noodles and beef. The tortilla strips not only add texture but also bring a fun element to the dish, making it visually appealing and adding an extra layer of flavor. You can easily make your own tortilla strips by quickly frying strips of corn tortillas until golden and crispy, or use store-bought for convenience.

FAQs for Hearty Beef and Potato Fideo Casserole

Can I substitute vermicelli pasta with something else?

Yes, while vermicelli is classic, you may substitute with angel hair or thin spaghetti broken into pieces for a similar texture.

What other options can I use instead of diced chuck steak?

Diced chuck steak offers rich flavor and tenderness, but ground beef or stewing beef can be used as alternatives.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the fideo soup?

A whole serrano pepper adds mild heat when left whole. For more spice, slice or add additional chiles to taste.

What are some good side dishes to serve with fideo soup?

Warm corn tortillas are traditional, but a simple salad or grilled vegetables also make great accompaniments.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking a taste of nostalgia or a comforting meal to warm your soul, Fideo with Potatoes and Beef is a recipe that never disappoints. The combination of silky vermicelli, tender beef, and hearty potatoes simmered in a flavorful tomato broth is a true classic that brings families together around the table.

Remember, this recipe is versatile and open to personalization. Feel free to swap ingredients, adjust spice levels, or even try a vegetarian variation by omitting the beef. The beauty of fideo is in its adaptability and the joy it brings to those who gather to enjoy it.

So, next time you’re in need of a bowlful of comfort, look no further than Fideo with Potatoes and Beef. It’s a dish that speaks of tradition, love, and the simple pleasures of a home-cooked meal. Enjoy every spoonful and savor the memories you create around this beloved recipe.