Description
A hearty Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole featuring layers of tender potatoes, ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers, baked to perfection. This comforting dish delivers a balanced combination of savory flavors and textures, ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Layer
- 1 pound lean ground beef, browned and crumbled
Vegetables
- 2 large onions, sliced and rings separated
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced or 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 green bell peppers, chopped
- Russet potatoes, thinly sliced (quantity approx. 3-4 medium potatoes)
Seasonings & Oil
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, as needed for drizzling
- Butter or nonstick spray, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Layer Potatoes: Begin by spreading a layer of thinly sliced russet potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the potatoes lightly with olive oil to help them cook through and achieve a tender texture.
- Add Ground Beef: Evenly distribute the browned and crumbled lean ground beef over the potato layer, creating the first savory meat layer of the casserole.
- Layer Onions: Add a generous layer of sliced onions on top of the beef. Ensure the onion rings are separated to allow for even cooking and flavor distribution throughout the casserole.
- Add Tomatoes: Place a layer of thinly sliced fresh tomatoes or evenly spread canned diced tomatoes atop the onions, adding moisture and a slight acidity to balance the richness.
- Top with Bell Peppers and Season: Scatter the chopped green bell peppers evenly over the tomatoes. Season each layer lightly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours, allowing all layers to cook gently and meld their flavors.
- Final Check: After baking, remove the foil and check that the casserole is bubbly and fragrant. The potatoes should be tender and the layered ingredients well combined and cooked through.
Notes
- Make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly before layering to develop flavor and remove excess fat.
- Separating the onion rings helps them cook evenly and distribute flavor more effectively throughout the casserole.
- If using fresh tomatoes, slicing them thinly helps them cook down during baking and blend seamlessly with other layers.
- Covering the casserole while baking prevents drying out; remove foil at the end for a slightly crisp top if desired.
- You can substitute russet potatoes for Yukon golds for a creamier texture, but avoid waxy potatoes as they may not soften fully.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
