Description
This Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that layers seasoned ground beef with creamy mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and thinly sliced potatoes, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection, it’s an ideal family meal that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
Layers and Toppings
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking during baking.
- Cook Ground Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat from the skillet to reduce greasiness.
- Add Seasonings and Simmer: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes to blend the flavors well, then remove from heat.
- Layer Potatoes: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This forms the first starchy layer of the casserole.
- Add First Beef Layer: Spread half of the cooked beef mixture evenly over the potato layer to form the second layer.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture for a rich, cheesy layer.
- Repeat Layers: Add the remaining sliced potatoes over the cheese layer, followed by the rest of the beef mixture spread evenly on top.
- Top with Cheese: Finish layering by sprinkling the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the second beef layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the potatoes are tender.
- Rest the Casserole: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking; this allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top with dollops of sour cream and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant, tangy finish and added freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
- For a spicier dish, add additional chopped green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Ensure potatoes are sliced thinly to ensure even and complete cooking during baking.
- Letting the casserole rest helps the layers set, improving sliceability and flavor meld.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
