Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole – Embrace the comforting flavors of the South with this hearty “Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole.” Perfect for family dinners. This recipe combines simple ingredients. Like russet potatoes, lean ground beef, and fresh vegetables. To create a dish. That’s both nourishing. And satisfying. Each layer contributes its own unique texture. And flavor. Making every bite. A delightful experience.

The first time I made this casserole. Was on a chilly evening. When I wanted something. That could warm up my family. From the inside out. As the delicious aroma filled our home. It wasn’t long. Before my husband. And children were drawn to the kitchen. Eager to dig in. Their faces lit up. With the first bite. And it’s been a requested favorite ever since!

What makes this Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole truly special?

What sets this Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole apart? It’s the simplicity. And depth of flavor. The layers meld beautifully. Under the slow heat. Infusing the beef. And vegetables. With a robust, homestyle taste. It’s also incredibly versatile. Perfect for using up. Any veggies you have on hand. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal. For those busy weekdays.

What You Need To Make This Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe?

Russet Potatoes: Choose these for their sturdiness in baking. Thin slices cook evenly. And soak up flavors well.

Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean beef. To keep the dish less greasy. Browning it first. Deepens the flavor.

Onions: Large onions, sliced and separated into rings. Add sweetness. And a comforting aroma during baking.

Tomatoes: Use fresh tomatoes for a vibrant taste. Or canned diced tomatoes for convenience. Without sacrificing flavor.

Green Bell Peppers: Chopped peppers mix well with other ingredients. And add a pop of color and texture.

Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors. Kosher salt for even seasoning. And freshly ground pepper for a bit of warmth.

Olive Oil: Drizzle on potatoes to help them cook. And add a slight fruity note to the dish.

Steps To Make Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole:

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Begin your layering with the thinly sliced potatoes. At the bottom of the dish. Give them a generous drizzle of olive oil. For moisture and flavor.

Step 3: Next, add a layer of your browned and crumbled lean ground beef. Follow this with a layer of sliced onions. Ensuring the rings are separated. To allow even cooking. Top these with your sliced tomatoes. Or spread the canned diced tomatoes evenly across. Finish with a layer of chopped green bell peppers. Between each layer. Remember to season well with kosher salt. And freshly ground black pepper. To enhance all the natural flavors.

Step 4: Cover the dish tightly with foil. To keep all the steam. And flavors locked in. And bake for 2 hours.

Step 5: Once done. The casserole should be bubbling and fragrant. A true testament to a perfectly layered dish.

Tip:

Parboil the Potato Slices: Before layering them in the casserole. Parboil your potato slices. For about 3-5 minutes. This starts the cooking process. Ensuring that the potatoes are perfectly tender. And fully cooked. By the time the casserole is done. It also helps them absorb more flavors. From the beef, onions, and other ingredients layered above them. Enhancing the overall taste. And texture of your dish.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. And keep it refrigerated. When ready to eat. Just bake it as directed.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully. With a simple green salad. Or steamed green beans. For a balanced meal. For something heartier. Serve alongside cornbread or garlic bread.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be a delicious. And nutritious substitute in this recipe. Adding a touch of sweetness. To the savory layers.

Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole

Dive into the heartwarming layers. Of our Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole. A dish that brings together the simple joys of home cooking. With a touch of Southern charm. This casserole layers thinly sliced russet potatoes. Savory browned beef. Sweet onions. Ripe tomatoes. And crisp bell peppers. Each seasoned to perfection. It’s a recipe that not only fills the kitchen. With enticing aromas. But also gathers everyone around the table. Eager for a taste. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner. Or a special gathering. This casserole promises smiles. And satisfaction. With every forkful.

4.75 from 4 votes

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Course: Main dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours hours

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 3 large russet potatoes thinly sliced
• 1 pound lean ground beef browned and crumbled
• 2 large onions sliced and rings separated
• 2 large tomatoes sliced OR 1 (15 ounces) can diced tomatoes
• 1 1/2 green bell peppers chopped
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Olive oil as needed

Instructions

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. With butter or nonstick spray.
• Layer the Ingredients:
• Start with a layer of thinly sliced russet potatoes. At the bottom of the dish.
• Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil.
• Add a layer of browned and crumbled lean ground beef.
• Follow with a layer of sliced onions.
• Add sliced tomatoes. Or spread the canned diced tomatoes evenly.
• Top with chopped green bell peppers.
• Season: Sprinkle each layer with kosher salt. And freshly ground black pepper.
• Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. And bake in the preheated oven. For 2 hours.
• Serve: Remove from oven. And let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious. And hearty casserole!

Notes

To make this Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole gluten-free. You’ll need to ensure. That all your ingredients are certified gluten-free. Especially the ground beef. Some ground beef preparations might include additives. Or fillers that contain gluten. So it’s important to read labels carefully. Or consult with your butcher. Additionally, when greasing your baking dish. Use a gluten-free cooking spray. Or a butter substitute. That’s labeled gluten-free. This small adjustment. Will allow you to enjoy this cozy, comforting dish. Without any gluten concerns. Enjoy your gluten-free culinary creation. With the same rich flavors. And hearty textures!