Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish, look no further than this Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole! This classic Southern casserole is made with layers of seasoned ground beef, vegetables, rice, and cheese, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s the perfect dish for a family dinner, potluck, or anytime you want something satisfying and flavorful. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, and the ingredients are simple and budget-friendly. Keep reading to discover how to make this delicious five-layer casserole, along with tips for customizing it to your taste.

What is a Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole?

A Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a layered dish that traditionally includes seasoned ground beef, vegetables like tomatoes and bell peppers, rice, and cheese. Each layer brings a different flavor and texture to the dish, making it both hearty and satisfying. This casserole is a true comfort food classic that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. It’s also highly versatile, allowing you to swap in your favorite ingredients or use what you have on hand.

Ingredients List for Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this flavorful casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup uncooked white rice (or brown rice)
• 2 cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the beef)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is versatile and allows for plenty of substitutions and variations based on what you have in your pantry or personal preferences. Here are a few ideas:

1. Protein Alternatives: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork instead of beef.
2. Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like corn, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrition.
3. Cheese Choices: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
4. Different Rice: You can use brown rice, wild rice, or even quinoa for a healthier alternative to white rice.
5. Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for some heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Sauté the Onion and Bell Pepper: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the Beef: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato sauce, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Set the beef mixture aside.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

While the beef is cooking, prepare the rice. In a medium saucepan, bring the beef broth (or water) to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole Layers

1. First Layer (Rice): Spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Second Layer (Beef Mixture): Spoon the seasoned ground beef mixture evenly over the rice layer.
3. Third Layer (Cheese): Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
4. Fourth Layer (Vegetables): If using additional vegetables like corn, peas, or zucchini, layer them evenly on top of the cheese.
5. Fifth Layer (Sauce and Cheese): Pour the remaining tomato sauce (if you haven’t mixed it into the beef) over the top, and sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to get bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Cook Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the Rice Properly: Make sure to cook the rice until tender and fluffy. Avoid overcooking it, as it will continue to absorb moisture while baking.
2. Brown the Beef Well: Cooking the beef with onions and peppers until browned adds depth of flavor. Don’t skip draining the excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
3. Layer Evenly: Be sure to spread each layer evenly to ensure every bite includes all the delicious layers—rice, beef, vegetables, and cheese.
4. Bake Until Golden: Covering the casserole while baking ensures the cheese melts beautifully, and removing the foil for the last few minutes gives it a delicious golden, bubbly top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining the Beef: If you don’t drain the fat from the ground beef, the casserole may turn out greasy, so be sure to drain it before adding it to the layers.
• Overcooking the Rice: Be careful not to overcook the rice, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole

• Family Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a casual, family-friendly dinner.
• Portion-Controlled: Cut the casserole into squares for portion-controlled servings and plate each piece with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Presentation Ideas for Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a light green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: For a crunchy twist, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips, panko breadcrumbs, or fried onions on top of the cheese during the last few minutes of baking.

Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the casserole (without baking), wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap.

2. Can I freeze Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it without baking, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can use any cheese you like. Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all work well in this casserole.

4. Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely. You can add veggies like corn, peas, zucchini, or carrots to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor.

5. How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this casserole will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven.

Conclusion

This Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, filling dish packed with layers of seasoned beef, rice, vegetables, and melty cheese. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or potlucks, this casserole is as easy to make as it is delicious. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy the rich, flavorful layers of this Southern classic. Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!

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