If you’re searching for a true Southern comfort classic that brings hearty flavors to your family table, look no further than the Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe. Picture this: savory seasoned beef, fluffy rice, sweet corn, tangy tomatoes, and gooey cheese all stacked up and baked until perfectly bubbly. This layered sensation is the kind of down-home delight that gets everyone asking for seconds—and the leftovers are just as crave-worthy (if not more!) the next day. It’s a warm, welcoming dish that wraps you in flavor and nostalgia with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This casserole stars straightforward, no-fuss ingredients, each chosen for their signature role in creating that classic Southern taste. Every item on this list is essential—adding its own layer of flavor, color, or texture to make the Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe a tried-and-true favorite.
- Ground beef (1½ pounds): This is the hearty backbone of the casserole, providing plenty of rich flavor and satisfying protein.
- Yellow onion (1 small, diced): Adds a touch of sweetness and depth, softening beautifully as it cooks.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings out an aromatic kick that elevates the beef’s natural flavor.
- Uncooked long-grain white rice (1½ cups): Cooks up fluffy and soaks up all the juices and flavors from the other layers.
- Diced tomatoes, with juice (1 14.5 oz can): The juice keeps the rice moist and infuses the whole casserole with a gentle tang.
- Canned corn, drained (1 15 oz can): Offers bites of sweetness that balance out the savory beef and tomatoes.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups): Melts into a golden, gooey topping that ties everything together.
- Beef broth (1½ cups): Ensures the rice cooks up tender and flavorful, finishing off the casserole with moisture and depth.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Just enough to add subtle warmth and a beautiful red hue.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Pulls all the flavors into a perfect, seasoned harmony.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Kicks in a mild heat right where it’s needed.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sauté the onion and garlic, unleashing their savory aroma and flavor.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional): A sprinkle on top brightens the whole dish with color and fresh flavor.
How to Make Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start your Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe journey by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray or light rub with oil—this ensures nothing sticks and makes serving (and cleanup!) a breeze.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion, Garlic, and Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium, add the olive oil, and toss in your diced onion. Let those pieces soften and turn fragrant for a couple of minutes, then stir in the garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, breaking up the meat as you go. Sprinkle in your paprika, salt, and pepper for a flavor boost. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat for a lighter, less greasy dish!
Step 3: Layering Up
The magic of the Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe is all about those beautiful, defined layers. To build it, sprinkle your uncooked rice right onto the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the whole can of diced tomatoes (juice and all) over the rice, spreading evenly. Add your drained corn as the third layer—making sure it covers the tomatoes nicely. Now spoon your hot beef mixture right on top, gently smoothing it into place, so each bite will have a bit of everything.
Step 4: Add Broth and Bake
Now it’s time for a little Southern patience! Pour the beef broth over your layers, letting it seep down to reach the rice. Cover tightly with aluminum foil—this traps steam and allows the rice to cook perfectly through. Slide the dish into your hot oven and bake for 55–60 minutes, until the rice is plump and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Finish Baking
Carefully peel back the foil and admire those steamy layers. Sprinkle a generous blanket of shredded cheddar over the beef and pop everything back into the oven (uncovered) for another 5–10 minutes. When the cheese is gooey, golden, and irresistible, you know it’s done. Let the casserole rest for five minutes before digging in—this helps it slice up neatly and makes serving easier!
How to Serve Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or even thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. If you like a bit of heat, a drizzle of hot sauce or a dusting of smoked paprika can provide the perfect finishing touch, making every serving feel special.
Side Dishes
The Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a crisp green salad, or some tangy coleslaw. For a real Southern spread, consider serving it alongside slow-cooked green beans or classic buttermilk biscuits to soak up all those savory juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For fun, try scooping individual portions into ramekins for a dinner party or packing leftovers into thermoses for hearty workday lunches. Change up the look by baking the casserole in a round dish or even layering everything in mini Mason jars for a cute picnic surprise!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and the flavors only get better as they mingle.
Freezing
This casserole is an excellent make-ahead freezer meal! Let it cool completely, then wrap the dish with a double layer of foil or spoon servings into tightly sealed containers. Freeze for up to three months. Just make sure to label so you remember what deliciousness awaits!
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Then, bake covered at 350°F until hot all the way through (about 20–25 minutes for a whole pan, or less for small portions). A quick zap in the microwave works for individual servings, too—just add a splash of broth if it needs a little moisture.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice gives a nuttier flavor and a fiber boost, but keep in mind it takes longer to cook and may require more broth. It’s best to partially cook the brown rice first or add an extra 15–20 minutes of baking time with a bit of extra liquid.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Of course! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or use cooked lentils or black beans. Substitute vegetable broth for beef broth, and you’ll have a hearty vegetarian Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe everyone will love.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, chopped zucchini, or fresh spinach can all be sautéed with the beef for extra flavor and nutrition. This recipe loves a little customization—just don’t overload so the rice still cooks evenly.
What’s the best way to get perfectly melted cheese on top?
Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the hot casserole, then return it to the oven uncovered. Watch closely during those last few minutes so the cheddar melts into a gooey, golden blanket without burning.
How can I add more Southern flair?
Try using smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce in the beef, or swap in pepper jack cheese for a little kick. Fire-roasted tomatoes and a sprinkle of bacon bits take the Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe to the next level!
Final Thoughts
The Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe is everything comfort food should be—simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor in every bite. It’s a family tradition in the making, ready to bring warmth and smiles to your table. Give it a try this week, and prepare to fall in love with a new Southern staple!
Print
Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a family dinner. Layers of seasoned ground beef, rice, tomatoes, corn, and cheese come together for a flavorful meal that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Other Ingredients:
- 1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1½ cups beef broth
- Chopped parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook onion and beef: In a skillet, cook onion in olive oil. Add garlic and ground beef, season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Layer casserole: Spread rice, then tomatoes, corn, beef mixture, and pour broth. Cover with foil.
- Bake: Bake for 55–60 minutes. Uncover, add cheese, and bake for additional 5–10 minutes.
- Serve: Let sit for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
- Enhance with hot sauce or fire-roasted tomatoes.
- Variations: Use black beans or add bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
