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Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic Worth Savoring

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This hearty, comforting Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. With layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, rich tomato sauce, mixed vegetables, and melty cheese, it’s a satisfying one-pan meal packed with classic Southern flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef

  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 3 cups thinly sliced russet potatoes, peeled

  • Salt and pepper to taste (for potatoes)

  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • ½ teaspoon sugar

  • 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)

  • ½ cup chopped bell pepper (any color)

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Drain excess fat. Stir in salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Set aside.

  • Slice peeled russet potatoes thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife. Rinse and pat dry. Lightly season with salt and pepper.

  • In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and sugar. Mix well to form a thick tomato sauce.

  • Assemble the casserole in the baking dish as follows:

    • First layer: Spread cooked beef mixture evenly on the bottom.

    • Second layer: Arrange sliced potatoes over the beef.

    • Third layer: Spoon tomato sauce over the potatoes.

    • Fourth layer: Spread the mixed vegetables and chopped bell pepper evenly.

    • Fifth layer: Top with shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese.

  • (Optional) In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer for added crunch.

  • Cover casserole with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden and potatoes are tender.

  • Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For even potato cooking, slice uniformly.

  • Add chili flakes or jalapeños for heat.

  • Swap vegetables based on preference or what you have on hand.

  • Casserole can be assembled a day in advance and baked when ready.

  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3–4 days or frozen up to 3 months.

Find it online: https://cookingworthy.com/southern-five-layer-beef-casserole-a-comfort-food-classic-worth-savoring/