This Easy Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a cozy dish everyone loves! It’s got layers of beef, cheese, and tasty veggies, all baked together for a hearty meal that warms you up.
I enjoy this casserole because it’s like a hug in a dish. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead! Bake it, then just heat it up when you’re ready to feast—perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the casserole. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or chopped mushrooms instead!
Onion and Garlic: Diced onions and minced garlic add great flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can use onion powder and garlic powder as quick substitutes. Just remember, fresh ingredients usually taste best!
Cream Soups: The cream of mushroom and chicken soups make the dish creamy and rich. If you want a healthier option, consider using low-fat versions. You could also make homemade cream soup using milk and flour to thicken.
Black Beans and Corn: These add texture and nutrition. Feel free to swap black beans with kidney beans or pinto beans. If you’re out of corn, frozen corn works just as well as canned corn for a pop of sweetness in this dish!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick. If you’re a fan of different cheeses, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
How Do You Layer the Casserole for the Best Results?
Layering is key to a successful casserole but can seem tricky. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a base of the beef mixture, ensuring it’s evenly spread in the dish.
- Add a generous layer of cheese for that creamy texture, which will also help hold everything together.
- Continue layering with the remaining beef mixture and finish off with more cheese on top. This creates a crispy, cheesy crust!
Covering the dish with foil helps to keep in moisture during the first part of baking, which is essential for even cooking. Just don’t forget to remove the foil towards the end to allow the cheese to brown nicely!
Easy Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: chopped green onions or fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 35 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes from start to finish. It’s a fantastic option for a family dinner, and you might even have some leftovers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden cheese on top!
2. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep it from being greasy.
3. Add Aromatics
Now, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook these until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, which should be about 3-4 minutes.
4. Season It Up
Stir in the chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper into the beef mixture. Cook for another minute to let those flavors blend together beautifully!
5. Mix All Ingredients
In a big bowl, combine your cooked beef mixture with the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, drained corn, black beans, and cooked rice. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
6. Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Pour half of the beef mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
7. Complete the Layers
Add the remaining beef mixture on top, spreading it out evenly. Finish off by sprinkling the last cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of everything.
8. Bake
Cover your casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. You’ll want to see that the cheese is bubbly and a little golden!
9. Final Touches
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This gives it time to set up a bit. If you like, garnish with some chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Enjoy your comforting, layered Southern-style beef casserole! It’s a perfect dish for sharing with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just note that it may be a little less flavorful, so you might want to add a bit more seasoning.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
You can easily make it vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with lentils or a combination of your favorite mushrooms and veggies. Just ensure the cream soups are vegetarian-friendly, or you can make a homemade version using vegetable broth and milk.
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 ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. You can add a splash of water to keep it moist while reheating!
