Description
A hearty Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole that combines thinly sliced russet potatoes, lean ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and green bell peppers baked to perfection. This comforting dish is seasoned simply with kosher salt and black pepper, layered and slow-baked to meld flavors beautifully for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 large onions, sliced into rings
- 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 & 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 get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan using butter or nonstick spray for easy casserole removal.
- Layer the Ingredients: Start by arranging a layer of thinly sliced russet potatoes evenly at the bottom of the dish. Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Add Beef Layer: Spread the browned and crumbled lean ground beef evenly over the potatoes, ensuring an even distribution of meat.
- Add Onion Layer: Place a layer of sliced onion rings on top of the beef, adding sweetness and texture.
- Tomato Layer: Add sliced tomatoes or evenly spread canned diced tomatoes over the onions to introduce juiciness and acidity.
- Add Bell Peppers: Top the casserole with chopped green bell peppers for a mild crunch and freshness.
- Season Each Layer: Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over each layer as you build the casserole for balanced seasoning throughout.
- Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours until the potatoes are tender and all flavors are melded.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly for easier serving. Enjoy this wholesome and delicious Southern casserole.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier casserole.
- If using fresh tomatoes, choose ripe but firm ones to avoid excess liquid.
- You can substitute olive oil with butter if preferred for richness.
- The casserole can be prepared a day ahead and reheated for convenience.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the layers.
