Name: Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 pound lamb’s liver, sliced; 8 slices beef bacon, chopped; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef or chicken stock; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole is a comforting, traditional British dish that brings together tender liver, crispy bacon, and rich gravy in a hearty casserole. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate classic flavors and want a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful. It takes just 15 minutes of prep time and about an hour to cook, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner.

The casserole serves 4 people and is a delicious way to enjoy liver, offering a wonderful balance of savory and smoky tastes with every bite.

What is Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole?

Mary Berry’s Liver and Bacon Casserole is a traditional British dish that showcases the rich and savory combination of liver, bacon, onions, and a flavorful gravy. The dish is slow-cooked, allowing the liver to become tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for cold evenings or a family dinner.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Hearty and Filling: This casserole is packed with protein and rich flavors, making it a satisfying meal.
Classic Comfort Food: Perfect for when you need a warming, home-cooked dish.

Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible to all home cooks.
Budget-Friendly: Liver is an inexpensive cut of meat, making this a cost-effective meal.
Versatile: Pair it with a variety of sides for a complete and balanced dinner.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole

1 pound lamb’s liver, sliced
8 slices beef bacon, chopped
2 large onions, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef or chicken stock
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

Large skillet or frying pan: For browning the liver and bacon.
Casserole dish: Bake the casserole in the oven.

Cutting board: For preparing the liver, bacon, and vegetables.
Sharp knife: To slice the liver and chop the vegetables.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Use to stir the ingredients.

Measuring cups and spoons: To measure out the ingredients accurately.
Oven mitts: For safely handling hot dishes.
Mixing bowl: Optional, for preparing any sauce or gravy before adding to the casserole.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Liver:

Rinse the liver slices under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Season with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon:

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Onions:

In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook until softened and golden brown.

Step 5: Brown the Liver:

Add the liver to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, just until browned.

Step 6: Make the Gravy:

Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef or chicken stock.
Bring to a simmer, stirring to thicken the gravy slightly.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole:

In a casserole dish, layer the liver, onions, and bacon.
Pour the gravy over the top, ensuring everything is well coated.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole:

Cover the dish with a lid or foil and bake for 1 hour, until the liver is tender and the flavors are well combined.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve:

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole Recipe

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect side to soak up the rich gravy.
Steamed Vegetables: Green beans or peas add a fresh contrast to the hearty casserole.

Crusty Bread: Use it to mop up the savory gravy for an added touch.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, or turnips complement the deep flavors of the dish.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole

Choose Fresh Liver: Fresh liver has a milder flavor and better texture than frozen.

Don’t Overcook the Liver: The liver cooks quickly, so avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
Crisp the Bacon: Ensure the bacon is crispy before adding it to the casserole for added texture.
Use a Flavorful Stock: A rich beef or chicken stock enhances the overall taste of the gravy.

Season Well: Liver benefits from generous seasoning, so taste and adjust as needed.
Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.

Variations of Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole

Add Vegetables: Include mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

Herb Infusion: Add thyme or rosemary to the gravy for a fragrant twist.
Swap the Protein: Try using chicken livers for a slightly different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a bit of heat.

Creamy Gravy: Stir in a splash of cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.

Storing Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole: Best Practices

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Portion Control: Store in individual portions for easy reheating later.

Reheating Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole: Best Practices

Stovetop: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of stock or water to keep the gravy smooth.
Oven: Reheat in a covered dish at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through.

Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

How can I make Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole healthier?

Use lean bacon: Opt for lean or turkey bacon to reduce the overall fat content.
Substitute liver: Choose chicken or calf’s liver, which is generally lower in fat and has a milder flavor.

Reduce salt: Use low-sodium beef or chicken stock and limit added salt to control sodium intake.
Add vegetables: Incorporate extra vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or spinach to increase fiber and nutrients.
Use whole-grain flour: If thickening the gravy, consider using whole-grain flour for added fiber.

Limit butter: Use olive oil or a reduced amount of butter for a healthier fat option.
Serve with whole grains: Pair the casserole with brown rice, quinoa, or whole-grain bread for a more balanced meal.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 350 kcal

Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 350mg

Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 20g
Dietary Fiber: 2g

Sugars: 4g
Protein: 30g

FAQs

How do you keep the liver tender in Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole?

To keep the liver tender, avoid overcooking it. Cook the liver only until it is just browned on the outside, about 2 minutes on each side. Then, allow it to finish cooking in the casserole with the gravy. Overcooking the liver can cause it to become tough and dry.

Can I prepare Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole in advance. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the casserole as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through.

What type of liver is best for Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole?

Lamb’s liver is traditionally used in this casserole for its mild flavor and tender texture. However, you can also use calf liver or chicken liver, depending on your preference. Each type of liver will bring a slightly different taste to the dish.

How can I make Mary Berry Liver and Bacon Casserole more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of the casserole, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the gravy. Using a rich, high-quality beef or chicken stock also boosts the overall taste. Additionally, seasoning the liver well before browning and using crispy bacon can add depth and complexity to the dish.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Liver and Bacon Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together the richness of liver, the smokiness of bacon, and the depth of a savory gravy. It’s a meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner, offering both flavor and nourishment. Try this recipe, and enjoy the timeless comfort of a classic casserole!

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