Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole: A Hearty Homestyle Delight
Experience the warmth and comfort of Southern cooking with our Five-Layer Beef Casserole. This dish is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this casserole layers tender russet potatoes, seasoned ground beef, sweet onions, juicy tomatoes, and crisp green bell peppers. Each layer is thoughtfully seasoned to bring out the best in every ingredient, ensuring that every forkful is a delight.
Ingredients
- 3 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 pound lean ground beef, browned and crumbled
- 2 large onions, sliced into rings
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced or 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1½ green bell peppers, chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, as needed
- Butter or nonstick cooking spray, for greasing the pan
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you are.
- Prepare the Baking Dish
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Brown the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until it’s browned and crumbled. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- Layer the Potatoes
- Arrange the thinly sliced russet potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the Ground Beef
- Spread the browned ground beef over the layer of potatoes, ensuring even coverage.
- Layer the Onions
- Scatter the sliced onion rings over the ground beef layer. The onions will caramelize during baking, adding sweetness to the dish.
- Add the Tomatoes
- Place the sliced tomatoes over the onions. If using canned diced tomatoes, spread them evenly instead. This layer adds juiciness and a fresh flavor.
- Top with Bell Peppers
- Sprinkle the chopped green bell peppers over the tomato layer. They provide a nice crunch and a pop of color.
- Season Each Layer
- As you build the casserole, sprinkle a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over each layer. This ensures consistent seasoning throughout.
- Cover and Bake
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This traps steam and helps cook the ingredients thoroughly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together and the potatoes to become tender.
- Rest and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to slice and serve.
- Serve warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Southern classic.
Additional Tips
- Cheese Lovers
- If you’d like to add a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top of the bell peppers before covering and baking.
- Herb Infusion
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary between the layers.
- Vegetarian Variation
- Substitute the ground beef with a meatless alternative or additional vegetables like sliced mushrooms or zucchini.
- Spice It Up
- If you prefer a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the layers.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed green vegetables. A slice of cornbread or a warm roll complements the meal nicely, allowing you to soak up any delicious juices left on your plate.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Embrace the simplicity and comfort of Southern cooking with this Five-Layer Beef Casserole. It’s a dish that’s sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your table, creating cherished memories with every bite.