Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food to gather everyone around the table, Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is the recipe you need in your life! Imagine five distinct, flavorful layers—tender potatoes, savory beef, sweet onions, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy bell peppers—all coming together in one hearty dish. Each bite tastes like home, and the best part is how simple the prep is. Don’t forget, the secret to a beautiful bake is to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan so nothing sticks, and all those rich juices bubble up just right.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This casserole is a celebration of basic pantry staples, each one playing a delicious role. From the earthy, starchy potatoes forming the base to the peppery finish, every ingredient adds its own personality to this classic. Gather these for a foolproof family meal!

• Russet potatoes (3 large, thinly sliced): These give you a sturdy, creamy base and soak up all the flavors from the layers on top.
• Lean ground beef (1 pound, browned and crumbled): The centerpiece—savory, satisfying, and a great source of protein.
• Large onions (2, sliced and rings separated): Onions add a gentle sweetness and depth; make sure to slice them thin for even cooking.
• Tomatoes (2 large, sliced or 1 can diced, 15 oz): Brings a juicy, tangy layer—fresh or canned both work beautifully!
• Green bell peppers (1½, chopped): Their gentle bitterness and crunch give the casserole a pop of color and more texture.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Proper seasoning makes each layer shine, so don’t hold back!
• Olive oil (as needed): A drizzle brings it all together and gives the potatoes that irresistible buttery edge.

How to Make Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by getting your oven nice and hot—set it to 350°F (175°C). This even heat ensures your casserole bakes perfectly from top to bottom while the flavors gently meld.

Step 2: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan

Now, reach for your trusty 9×13-inch baking pan! Whether you use a bit of butter or a nonstick spray, take a moment to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This little step makes a big difference, preventing sticky messes and helping every layer lift out easily.

Step 3: Build Your Layers

Begin with a layer of thinly sliced russet potatoes arranged neatly on the bottom. Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil for flavor and to help them cook up tender. Next, add your golden-browned ground beef, spreading it evenly. On top of that goes your rings of sweet onions, followed by juicy slices or spoonfuls of tomatoes. Finish with those crisp green bell peppers scattered across the very top. Pause after each layer to sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper—think of it as seasoning every bit of the casserole!

Step 4: Bake

Once all your gorgeous layers are in place, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will lock in moisture and heat so everything cooks through and the potatoes become fork-tender. Slide your pan into the oven and let it work its magic for a full 2 hours.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

When the timer dings, carefully take out your casserole and let it cool slightly. This makes serving easier and helps the flavors settle into each layer. All that’s left is to dig in and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

How to Serve Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan

Garnishes

For a pop of color and fresh flavor, sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions right before serving. It’s also lovely with a dusting of sharp shredded cheese on top—let it melt in for a gooey finish. Just be sure you still let the beauty of those five layers shine since you’ve taken the extra care to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan!

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs so well with something light and crisp. Try serving it with a tangy coleslaw, some buttered green beans, or a pile of sweet cornbread. The hearty nature of the dish means simple, fresh sides are just perfect alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling festive? Spoon portions into individual ramekins for dinner parties or cut neat squares for a brunch buffet. You’ll notice how easy it is to serve thanks to your decision to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan—the layers come out beautifully intact.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover casserole into airtight containers and tuck them into the fridge. It keeps great for up to four days and the flavors actually meld even more overnight. You’ll love how easily slices come out if you remembered to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan at the start!

Freezing

Need a comforting dinner down the road? Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic and foil, or portion into freezer-safe containers. Label and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the casserole covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 20–25 minutes). A quick zap in the microwave also works for small portions, just cover to keep it moist. Thanks to the way you lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan, you’ll avoid any stubborn sticking when serving leftovers!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Absolutely! Assemble all the layers (don’t forget to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan first), cover, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish for busy days or holidays.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can swap in ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Just remember to brown and season well first to keep those rich flavors layered throughout.

Is it okay to use different vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add zucchini, yellow squash, or mushrooms in place of or alongside the listed veggies. The five-layer format is super flexible, just keep the layers thin and even.

Should I peel the potatoes?

It’s really up to your preference—the skins add a rustic texture and extra nutrients, but for a smoother casserole, go ahead and peel them. Thin, even slices are more important than anything else.

How do I keep the casserole from getting soggy?

Be sure to drain your tomatoes if you’re using canned, and don’t overdo the olive oil. Covering with foil helps everything cook through without drying out, especially if you remembered to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan before layering.

Final Thoughts

If you want a meal that feels like a warm hug, this Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is it. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked—not just on the taste, but on how easy it is to pull off. Invite your loved ones to the table, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan, and make memories with every savory slice!

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