This Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole is a hearty delight! It layers ground beef, cheese, beans, and spices, all baked to perfection in a cozy dish.
I love how each bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd with minimal fuss—just layer and bake! What’s not to love? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the casserole. If you want a lighter option, consider using ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version. I like the richness ground beef adds, but the alternatives work well too!
Beans: Refried and black beans add great flavor and texture. Can’t find refried beans? You can mash cooked pinto beans or use more black beans instead. For a twist, try kidney beans or chickpeas, just rinse them well!
Taco Seasoning: This adds a punch of flavor! If you don’t have a packet, mix up your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. It’s super easy and customizable depending on your spice preferences.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese brings a sharp taste. If you’re looking for something different, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a lovely creaminess and spice. Vegan cheese also works great if you’re dairy-free!
Tortilla Chips: These give a crunchy top. For a healthier alternative, you can use crushed pita chips or even crushed cornflakes if you prefer. Feel free to skip them if you’re not into crunch!
How Do I Layer the Casserole for the Best Results?
Layering properly ensures even cooking and flavor distribution. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Start with refried beans as the base to create a sturdy foundation.
- On top of the beans, land your seasoned ground beef mixture. This layering keeps everything together.
- Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes in that order to build up the layers without them mixing too much.
- Spread sour cream over the top evenly. This adds creaminess to balance with the beans and meat.
- Finally, finish with cheese and tortilla chips. This creates a nice, crispy topping that contrasts the soft layers below.
Perfect layering keeps each bite delightful. Remember to let it rest after baking; this helps the layers settle and makes serving easier!
Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can refried beans
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional Toppings:
- sliced jalapeños
- chopped green onions
- black olives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty casserole takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes to bake, making a total of about 40-45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying dish, perfect for a family dinner or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. This will help your delicious layers come out easily after baking!
2. Cook the Base:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic followed by the ground beef. Cook this mixture, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy!
3. Mix in Seasonings:
Once the beef is cooked, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add about 1/4 cup of water. Stir it all together and let it cook for another 2 minutes, so those flavors meld beautifully. After that, you can simply remove it from the heat.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Now it’s time for layering! Start by spreading the refried beans evenly as the bottom layer in your greased casserole dish. Following this, add the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the beans.
5. Add More Layers:
Next, layer the black beans, then the corn, and finally the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies. This creates a beautiful array of colors and flavors that blend together as it bakes.
6. Creamy and Cheesy Toppings:
Spread the sour cream evenly over the layers, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese across the sour cream. For that delightful crunch, add crushed tortilla chips on top, followed by the remaining cup of cheddar cheese.
7. Bake and Enjoy:
Place your assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly! Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
8. Serve it Up:
Garnish your casserole with optional toppings like sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, or black olives if you like. Serve warm, and don’t forget a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping. Enjoy your delicious and comforting Southern Five-Layer Beef Casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great lean alternative to beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as lean meats may cook faster.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat or sautéed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option. You can use lentils or more beans to add protein!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Definitely! While the recipe calls for cheddar cheese, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for added flavor. Just ensure they’re good melting cheeses for the best texture!
