Description
This Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish featuring layers of thinly sliced russet potatoes, seasoned lean ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and green bell peppers. Baked to perfection with a subtle drizzle of olive oil and seasoning, this casserole brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 large onions, sliced with rings separated
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced (or 1 (15 ounces) can diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 green bell peppers, chopped
Meat
- 1 pound lean ground beef, browned and crumbled
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 ensure it is fully heated before baking the casserole.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan using butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and help with easy serving.
- Layer the Potatoes: Arrange a layer of thinly sliced russet potatoes evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the potatoes lightly with olive oil to add moisture and richness.
- Add the Ground Beef: Spread a layer of browned and crumbled lean ground beef evenly over the potatoes to create a savory middle layer.
- Layer Onions: Place a layer of separated sliced onion rings over the beef layer for added flavor and texture.
- Add Tomatoes: Next, spread sliced tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes evenly over the onions to provide juiciness and acidity.
- Top with Green Bell Peppers: Scatter chopped green bell peppers over the tomato layer for a fresh, slightly sweet crunch.
- Season Each Layer: Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over each layer as you go to build well-rounded seasoning throughout the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours until potatoes are tender and flavors meld.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy a warm, hearty Southern-inspired meal!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking (optional).
- The casserole can be made a day ahead; just cool completely, refrigerate, and reheat covered in the oven before serving.
- Substitute sweet potatoes for russet potatoes for a different taste and added nutrients.
- Use fresh tomatoes when in season for best flavor, otherwise canned diced tomatoes work well.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if using salted canned tomatoes.
