Name: Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487081H50M23S
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: For the casserole:; 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup frozen corn kernels (or fresh if preferred); 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies; 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning); 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared in advance or from a box); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the beef); For garnish (optional):; Fresh chopped cilantro; Sliced jalapeños; Extra shredded cheese

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Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines layers of savory beef, creamy cheese, seasoned vegetables, and a golden, crispy topping. This casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping for the week. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it brings together the best elements of Southern comfort food in one delicious dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love hearty, flavorful casseroles that are both filling and comforting, then Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is the recipe for you. This dish is packed with layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and tasty vegetables, all baked to perfection. The layers meld together beautifully as the casserole bakes, creating a satisfying meal that will keep you coming back for more. It’s the kind of meal that works just as well for a family dinner as it does for a special occasion. Easy to prepare, yet full of flavor, this casserole will quickly become a go-to recipe for busy nights or any time you’re craving a comforting, home-cooked meal.

Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the casserole:

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup frozen corn kernels (or fresh if preferred)
1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared in advance or from a box)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the beef)

For garnish (optional):

Fresh chopped cilantro
Sliced jalapeños
Extra shredded cheese

Directions

Prepare the beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
Add vegetables and seasoning: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens. Stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, green chilies, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside.
Layer the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start by spreading a thin layer of mashed potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Follow with a layer of the seasoned beef mixture. Then, spread a layer of sour cream on top of the beef, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers in the same order: mashed potatoes, beef mixture, sour cream, and cheese.
Bake: Once all layers are in place, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and additional cheese, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 6-8 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add chopped fresh jalapeños or some hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a mixture of black beans and lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
Different Cheese: Feel free to mix up the cheeses. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of Mexican cheeses would work well.
Add more veggies: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra veggies and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the fridge.

2. Can I freeze the Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

3. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes for convenience, or you can prepare fresh mashed potatoes if you prefer.

4. Can I substitute the sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or even cream cheese for a slightly different flavor and texture.

5. How do I keep the casserole from becoming soggy?

Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes and corn thoroughly before adding them to the beef mixture to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

6. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, add extra red pepper flakes, chili powder, or diced fresh jalapeños to the beef mixture to increase the spice level.

7. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well in this casserole if you’re looking for a lighter alternative to beef.

8. How can I make the casserole creamier?

For a creamier texture, you can add a little extra sour cream or cream cheese to the layers of the casserole.

9. Can I add beans to this casserole?

Yes, black beans or pinto beans would add a nice texture and flavor to the beef mixture. Add them in with the corn and tomatoes for an extra layer of goodness.

10. Can I make this casserole in a smaller dish?

If you’re making a smaller portion, you can use an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish and adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.

Conclusion

Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that will satisfy your hunger and warm you from the inside out. With its layers of seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and mashed potatoes, this casserole has everything you need for a filling and delicious meal. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this casserole will quickly earn a spot in your recipe rotation.