Irresistible Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe

Imagine digging into a warm, gooey Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole, where every layer unfolds a delightful surprise of flavors and textures. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water, promising a symphony of savory beef, creamy cheese, and zesty spices that dance on your palate. It’s like a hug in a dish, perfect for cozy family dinners or when you need to impress unexpected guests.

this …

Now, let me take you back to my childhood. I remember the first time my grandmother served this casserole at our family reunion; it stole the show faster than Aunt Mildred’s questionable potato salad. Everyone gathered around the table, laughter mixing with the delicious scents of bubbling cheese and seasoned beef. That moment etched itself in my memory as a reminder that good food brings people together. Now, let’s dive into how you can recreate this mouthwatering experience!

Ingredients for Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for flavor without excess grease; choose grass-fed if possible for better quality.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; dice finely so it blends well with the meat.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they elevate the flavor profile—use about three minced cloves.
• Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add crunch and sweetness; mix red and green for visual appeal.
• Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes with their juices for moisture; they provide acidity that balances richness.

For the Cheese Layer:

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for its bold flavor; feel free to mix with Monterey Jack for creaminess.

For Assembly:

• Tortilla Chips: Use crushed tortilla chips as a crunchy base; they give texture and soak up flavors beautifully.
• Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and black pepper enhance depth; adjust them according to your spice tolerance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole

Preparing the Filling

Start by browning one pound of ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. As it cooks, break it apart with a spatula, allowing those delicious juices to mingle with the fat.

Add one diced onion and three minced garlic cloves into the beef mixture once it’s browned. Cook until the onion turns translucent and releases its sweet aroma—about five minutes gives excellent results.

Next, toss in two cups of diced bell peppers—mixing colors makes everything look more appetizing! Sauté until they’re slightly tender yet still crisp—about three minutes should do just fine.

Pour in one can of diced tomatoes (with juices), followed by two teaspoons each of cumin and chili powder. Stir well until everything is combined; your kitchen will start smelling heavenly!

Building the Layers

Grab a large baking dish (around 9×13 inches works great) and start layering! First up is half of your crushed tortilla chips spread evenly at the bottom—this creates an exciting crunch.

Spoon half of your meat mixture over those chips, making sure to cover them generously. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top—you want that melty goodness!

Repeat these layers: another half of crushed tortilla chips followed by the remaining meat mixture topped off with another cup of cheese. Just imagine how delightful this will be once baked—all those flavors melding together!

Baking It Up!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil—this helps steam everything while baking so your casserole doesn’t dry out.

Bake for about twenty-five minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional ten minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The anticipation builds as you watch that cheese melt—it’s practically an art form!

Once out of the oven, let it rest for about five minutes before serving. This allows everything to settle down—or as I like to say: “It gives everyone time to calm down from their cheesy excitement.”

Now grab your favorite spatula, serve generous portions onto plates (maybe add some sour cream or green onions on top), and enjoy every last bite!

Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is not only comfort food but also brings back memories while creating new ones around your table. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef in a skillet, then layer it with your favorite ingredients like noodles, cheese, and sauce. While the casserole bakes in the oven, prepare a fresh salad to serve alongside it.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Spice it up with different cheeses or seasonings to match your family’s taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in the oven to keep that cheesy goodness intact.

Making this Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole reminds me of family potlucks where everyone would gather, and I’d secretly hope for leftovers to take home. The laughter over shared meals created some of my best memories!

FAQs:

What is Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole?

Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a comforting dish that features layers of seasoned beef, cheese, and other savory ingredients. This casserole combines flavors typical of Southern cooking, making it a hearty meal perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The layers typically include ground beef, tortillas, cheese, beans, and a variety of spices. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that appeal to everyone.

How do I store leftovers from the Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole?

To store leftovers from the Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage. If freezing, ensure you wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I customize the ingredients in Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole?

Absolutely! One of the great aspects of Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is its versatility. You can customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding jalapeños or using spicy seasoning blends. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef if desired. Experimenting with different ingredients allows you to create a casserole that suits your taste preferences.

What are some serving suggestions for Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole?

Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole pairs well with various sides to enhance your meal. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad or coleslaw for crunch and freshness. Cornbread is another classic side that complements this hearty dish perfectly. For an added twist, serve slices of avocado or guacamole on the side. These accompaniments add color and flavor while creating a balanced dining experience.

Conclusion for Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole:

In summary, Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Its layers of seasoned beef, cheese, and other flavorful ingredients create a satisfying meal that pleases everyone at the table. Storing leftovers is easy, allowing you to enjoy this comforting casserole multiple times. Feel free to customize ingredients based on your preferences, ensuring each preparation is unique and delightful.

Print

Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole

---

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that layers seasoned ground beef, zesty spices, and creamy cheese over crunchy tortilla chips. This family favorite is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures in every satisfying bite. Easy to prepare and customizable based on your pantry staples, this casserole will surely become a go-to recipe.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups bell peppers, diced (mixed red and green)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp black pepper

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in diced bell peppers and cook until slightly tender (about 3 minutes).
5. Mix in diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and black pepper; combine well.
6. In a baking dish (9×13 inches), layer half of the crushed tortilla chips at the bottom.
7. Spoon half of the meat mixture over the chips and top with half of the shredded cheese.
8. Repeat layers with remaining tortilla chips, meat mixture, and cheese.
9. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, you can mix in vegetables like spinach or substitute ground turkey for beef. Adjust spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch.