Description
This Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish featuring layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes, lean ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and green bell peppers. Baked slowly in the oven, the layers meld together into a flavorful casserole perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Potatoes
- 3 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
Meat
- 1 pound lean ground beef, browned and crumbled
Vegetables
- 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
Seasonings and Oils
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, as needed
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan using butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Ingredients: Begin with a layer of thinly sliced russet potatoes evenly spread at the bottom of the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil to add moisture and aid in cooking.
- Add the Beef Layer: Evenly spread the browned and crumbled lean ground beef on top of the potatoes.
- Add Onion Layer: Spread the sliced onion rings over the ground beef layer.
- Add Tomato Layer: Lay the sliced tomatoes evenly over the onions or spread canned diced tomatoes if using.
- Top with Bell Peppers: Sprinkle the chopped green bell peppers on top of the tomato layer.
- Season: Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over each layer to enhance flavor.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and potatoes to fully cook.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve and enjoy this rich, hearty casserole.
Notes
- To make this Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole gluten-free, ensure all ingredients, especially ground beef, are certified gluten-free to avoid additives containing gluten.
- Use a gluten-free cooking spray or butter substitute labeled gluten-free when greasing the baking dish to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
- This casserole is best served warm and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For variation, you can add shredded cheese between layers or on top in the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.
