Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is the perfect comfort food. It layers hearty, flavorful ingredients like russet potatoes, lean ground beef, and fresh vegetables, creating a satisfying and warming dish that’s sure to be a family favorite. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this casserole brings together the best of Southern comfort food with a simple, straightforward recipe.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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3 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
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1 pound lean ground beef, browned and crumbled
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2 large onions, sliced and rings separated
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2 large tomatoes, sliced or 1 (15 ounces) can diced tomatoes
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1 ½ green bell peppers, chopped
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Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Olive oil, as needed
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
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Layer the sliced russet potatoes at the bottom of the dish and drizzle with olive oil for moisture and flavor.
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Add a layer of browned and crumbled ground beef, followed by a layer of sliced onions, then sliced tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes.
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Top with chopped green bell peppers and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper between each layer.
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Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 2 hours, allowing the layers to cook together and meld flavors.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 6
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 2 hours
Variations
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You can substitute russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter taste.
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Add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for more texture and flavor.
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If you prefer a spicier kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Storage/Reheating
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Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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To reheat, bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, or microwave in individual servings until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it as directed when you’re ready to enjoy.
What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed green beans. For something heartier, cornbread or garlic bread complements it perfectly.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a lovely sweetness and nutritional boost to the dish.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this casserole is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check the ingredients on any packaged products like canned tomatoes for any gluten-containing additives.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
How do I ensure the potatoes are fully cooked?
Consider parboiling the potato slices for 3-5 minutes before layering them into the casserole. This helps them cook evenly during baking.
What other meats can I use in place of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken works well as lean alternatives. For a richer flavor, try ground pork or sausage.
Can I add cheese to this casserole?
Absolutely! You can sprinkle shredded cheese on top for the last 15 minutes of baking for a cheesy, melty topping.
How do I make sure the casserole isn’t too dry?
Be sure to drizzle olive oil on the potatoes and cover the dish tightly with foil to lock in moisture during baking.
Can I make this casserole spicier?
Add more green bell peppers or toss in some diced chili peppers, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to give it a spicy twist.
Conclusion
This Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a comforting, hearty meal that brings together the flavors of potatoes, beef, and vegetables in a beautifully layered dish. With its simplicity and depth of flavor, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves homestyle cooking. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner, this casserole promises to satisfy every time.
Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole
This Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole combines the best of comfort food with hearty ingredients like russet potatoes, lean ground beef, and fresh vegetables. With easy-to-follow layers of flavor, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a weeknight meal. The casserole is naturally gluten-free and can be made ahead, making it a convenient, satisfying choice for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Baked
- Method: American
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Gluten Free
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 can 15 oz diced tomatoes)
1 ½ green bell peppers, chopped
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Olive oil, as needed
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
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Layer the thinly sliced russet potatoes at the bottom of the dish and drizzle with olive oil.
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Add a layer of browned and crumbled ground beef.
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Follow with a layer of sliced onions and then a layer of sliced tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes.
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Top with chopped green bell peppers and season each layer with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
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Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Notes
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Substitute Ideas: You can swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slight sweetness, or add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for more texture.
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Spicy Twist: If you like heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or chili flakes between the layers.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
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