This Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that comes packed with flavor! With layers of beef, cheese, and creamy goodness, it’s a comfy meal for any night.
Honestly, who can resist a cheesy bite? I often make this on busy evenings, and it’s perfect for leftovers too! Just pop it in the oven and relax while it cooks—so easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. Both still give a nice, hearty flavor!
Onion: Yellow onions work great here, but if you have them on hand, shallots or green onions can also add a unique taste.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess, but you can swap it out for cream of chicken or any other cream soup if you prefer. You can also make your own by mixing heavy cream with some mushrooms and seasoning.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder cheese experience. Vegan cheese works too for a dairy-free version!
How Do I Cook the Perfect Ground Beef?
Getting your ground beef just right is key for flavor and texture! Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Use a large skillet and heat the oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and minced garlic first. Cook until soft, about 3–4 minutes—this builds a base of flavor!
- Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned, which usually takes around 5-7 minutes.
- Don’t forget to drain excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy!
Following these steps ensures your beef is flavorful and well-cooked, ready to layer into your casserole! Enjoy making it!
Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can green beans, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then 35 minutes to bake in the oven. So in total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to finish before you can dig into this warm and comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s ready when you need to bake your casserole!
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet, add the vegetable oil and heat it over medium. Once it’s warm, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3–4 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Finally, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Season the Beef:
Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and paprika over the beef mixture. Stir well to mix all the flavors together, then remove the skillet from heat.
4. Prepare the Creamy Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is nice and smooth. This will add creaminess to our casserole!
5. Layer the Casserole:
In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spread the cooked rice evenly as the base layer. Then add the cooked seasoned ground beef on top of the rice, spreading it out evenly.
Next, spoon the creamy mushroom and sour cream mixture over the beef layer so it covers it well. After that, layer the drained green beans on top, followed by the drained whole kernel corn. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over everything to create a cheesy topping.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish tightly with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows everything to set a little. Then scoop out generous portions, and enjoy your hearty Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole!
This rich, cheesy casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where comfort food is needed! Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative. Just cook it the same way you would the ground beef, and you’ll still get a delicious casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to your baking time to ensure it’s heated through!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just make sure they are cooked slightly beforehand to ensure they meld well with the casserole.
