ASX 200 shares are often seen as more reliable compared to smaller shares because they already have been operating for many years and are (probably) generating positive cashflow.
However, I don't think it's worth buying the largest businesses in the ASX 200 such as Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) because size can be a problem for generating market-beating returns.
That's why I think these three mid ASX 200 shares could offer the best combination of growth and reliability:
Brickworks Limited (ASX: BKW)
Brickworks is one of Australia's leading property materials businesses in my opinion with a stable of high-quality brands like Austral Bricks and Austral Masonry. It has been operating for over 80 years.
The business is diversified in that it has three (or four) divisions: building products, land & development and investments. The latter two could provide a good alternative source of earnings during periods of low construction activity. The fourth could be described as US building products.
I'm quite excited by the idea of Brickworks' expansion into the USA with its Glen Gery acquisition.
It's currently trading at 15x FY20's estimated earnings.
Xero Limited (ASX: XRO)
Xero is one of the world's leading cloud accounting software providers, some might consider it the best in the world.
The company has very high levels of recurring revenue, it's growing subscriber numbers strongly across most of the countries it operates in and it has just started generating free cash flow and a profit.
The bigger Xero becomes the higher its profit margins go, making each new subscriber more profitable than the last.
Xero isn't trying to make a profit yet, so it's hard to say it is valued at any multiple of profit.
Crown Resorts Ltd (ASX: CWN)
Australia's largest casino and entertainment complex business is facing a bit of negativity after a failed takeover offer and a selldown by James Packer of his share holding.
However, I still believe Crown Resorts could be good value at around $12 (or under) considering Crown Sydney is getting closer to completion every month.
An Australian recession wouldn't be too pretty for Crown, but longer-term I expect regulars and VIPs alike will continue walking through Crown's doors and outlaying money.
Crown is currently trading at 20x FY20's estimated earnings.
Foolish takeaway
There are compelling reasons to buy each of these ASX 200 blue chips at today's price, particularly with interest rates falling. However, Brickworks would be my first choice due to its reliable dividend and potential for US growth.
