If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that hits all the right notes of flavor and texture, then you must try the Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole Recipe. This vibrant casserole layers savory ground beef, fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and rich tomato sauce beneath a golden blanket of melted cheddar cheese. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of spice, fresh ingredients, and cheesy goodness that feels like a warm hug from the South. Whether you’re looking for a family dinner or something to impress guests, this casserole is as delicious as it is satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully, giving this casserole its signature layers of flavor, texture, and eye-catching color. Each one plays a crucial role in making your Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole Recipe truly unforgettable.
- 1 pound ground beef: The rich, savory base that brings hearty protein and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice to balance the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, comforting aroma into every bite.
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: Provides a tender, fluffy texture that soaks up all the savory juices.
- 1 small yellow onion (sliced): Adds a subtle sweetness and slight crunch to brighten the casserole.
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced): Brings freshness and a pop of green color that complements the rich beef.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained): Adds vibrant acidity and juicy texture to keep the layers moist.
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce: Deepens the tomato flavor and helps bind all the layers together.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Creates a melty, golden topping that’s irresistibly cheesy and bubbly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to brown the beef and add a subtle fruitiness.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Gives a hint of herbaceous warmth that enhances the tomato and beef flavors.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds smoky depth and a touch of color to the seasoned beef.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Offers a fresh, vibrant finish to brighten the final presentation.
How to Make Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and season it with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and paprika. Cook the beef until it’s fully browned and fragrant, making sure to break it up into small pieces for even layering. If there’s any excess fat, drain it to keep your casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Assemble the Layers
Grab a greased 9×13-inch baking dish—the perfect size for this five-layer feast. Begin by spreading the uncooked long-grain white rice evenly across the bottom. Next, layer the sliced onions, followed by the green bell peppers, to bring in delightful texture and color. Spoon the browned ground beef over the veggies, then pour the undrained diced tomatoes on top to add moisture and tang. Finally, pour the tomato sauce evenly over everything, creating a rich and cohesive base for baking.
Step 3: Bake Covered
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Bake for exactly 1 hour and 15 minutes. This slow baking allows the rice to absorb all those wonderful flavors while becoming tender and perfectly cooked.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the foil carefully, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered for another 10 minutes or until the cheese has melted into a bubbly, golden masterpiece that will have everyone eager to dig in.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Let your Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole Recipe rest for about 5 minutes once it’s out of the oven. This helps the layers set just a bit, making it easier to serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you want to add a pop of color and fresh herb flavor before serving.
How to Serve Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple but elegant touch for this casserole. You can also consider a little sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar or even thin slices of green onions for a subtle crunch and freshness that complements the rich layers.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but for a meal that truly shines, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli. Cornbread or warm dinner rolls also make wonderful companions, perfect for sopping up any lingering sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, consider serving individual portions in ramekins with a drizzle of sour cream or a dollop of guacamole on top. Adding a light dusting of smoked paprika or a few chili flakes can give a spicy kick and a gourmet look for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a convenient option for next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it from frozen—just increase the baking time slightly and keep it covered until the rice softens.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a minute or two with the foil off to revive that melty cheese topping if needed.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this casserole?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well but will require a longer baking time plus an extra ¼ cup of liquid to ensure it cooks fully. The texture will be nuttier and chewier, which some folks love.
Is this recipe spicy?
The Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole Recipe has a mild, comforting spice level thanks to paprika and black pepper. If you enjoy spicier food, feel free to add cayenne or hot sauce to taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils and add extra seasoning to keep those bold flavors. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since plant proteins don’t need as long to cook.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese is classic here, offering sharpness and meltability. However, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of cheeses for a different twist.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time for a party?
Yes! Assemble it in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight or freeze it for longer storage. Then, bake just before serving to enjoy fresh, cheesy, comforting layers.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole Recipe is the kind of dish that turns ordinary nights into warm, delicious memories. With layers full of flavor and a wonderfully cheesy finish, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Don’t wait to try this crowd-pleaser—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish featuring seasoned ground beef, layers of fresh vegetables, and uncooked rice baked together to perfection. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, it makes for an easy weeknight dinner or cozy family meal, combining rich southern flavors in a single casserole.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasonings
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Vegetables and Rice
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
Tomato Components
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
Dairy and Oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, and paprika. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Layer Ingredients: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom. Layer sliced onions evenly over the rice, then add the sliced green bell peppers on top of the onions.
- Add Beef and Tomatoes: Spoon the cooked, seasoned ground beef evenly over the vegetable layers. Pour the undrained diced tomatoes evenly over the beef, followed by pouring the tomato sauce on top of the tomatoes.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil carefully. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Return the dish uncovered to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice, but increase the baking time and add an extra ¼ cup of liquid to ensure it cooks properly.
- This casserole freezes well. Assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze unbaked for up to 2 months for convenient future meals.
