Description
This Savory Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for cozy nights. Featuring layers of tender russet potatoes, lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a seasoning blend, this casserole bakes slowly to develop rich flavors and a satisfying texture. Ideal for family dinners, it combines simplicity with Southern-inspired taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 pounds Russet Potatoes (Thinly sliced; can substitute with sweet potatoes)
- 1 large Onion (Sliced into rings)
- 2 cups Tomatoes (Fresh or canned diced)
- 1 cup Green Bell Peppers (Chopped)
Meat
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (Browned)
Seasonings & Oils
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (To taste)
- 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper (To taste)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For drizzling over potatoes)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Layer Potatoes: Arrange the thinly sliced russet potatoes evenly at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the potatoes to enhance flavor and aid in browning.
- Add Ground Beef Layer: Spread the browned lean ground beef evenly over the potatoes, creating the second layer of the casserole.
- Add Onion Layer: Place the sliced onion rings on top of the beef layer, distributing them evenly.
- Add Tomato and Bell Pepper Layer: Scatter fresh or canned diced tomatoes and sprinkle chopped green bell peppers evenly across the onions.
- Season Layers: Lightly season each layer as you build the casserole with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours, or until the casserole is bubbling and the potatoes are tender.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool slightly to allow the layers to set, making it easier to serve.
Notes
- For a sweeter variation, substitute russet potatoes with sweet potatoes.
- Browning the ground beef beforehand enhances flavor and ensures even cooking.
- You can add cheese on top for an extra layer of richness, though it’s not traditional.
- Covering the dish tightly helps to trap steam, ensuring the potatoes cook evenly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
