Name: Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 cups cooked white rice; 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained; 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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If you crave a hearty, comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug from the South, the Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is about to become your go-to recipe. Picture forkfuls of savory beef, sweet corn, tender rice, juicy tomatoes, and bubbling cheddar, all stacked together so every bite packs a little bit of everything you love. It’s a meal that’ll take you right back to grandma’s kitchen, bursting with classic Southern flavors, easy to put together even on a busy weeknight, and destined to have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The brilliance of Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole comes in how it turns simple pantry staples into something magic. Each ingredient has a role to play, building up layers of flavor, texture, and cozy color that make this dish unforgettable.

Ground Beef (1 lb): The backbone of the casserole, bringing rich, savory flavor and heartiness.
Yellow Onion (1 small, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down with the beef.
Cooked White Rice (2 cups): Forms a tender, fluffy base to soak up all the delicious juices.
Canned Corn (1 can, drained): A burst of sweetness and a hint of crunch in every bite.
Diced Tomatoes (1 can, undrained): Juiciness and acidity balance out the richness of the meat and cheese.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Melty, gooey, and downright essential for that classic casserole finish.
Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp): Gives just enough aromatic punch without overpowering the dish.
Paprika (1/2 tsp): Adds color and subtle smoky warmth.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances and enhances every other ingredient.
Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): A gentle kick to round out the flavors.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Helps sauté the onions and brown the beef beautifully.
Chopped Parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh finishing touch that adds a little pop of color.

How to Make Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, ensuring it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake. Go ahead and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this will keep those scrumptious layers from sticking and make cleanup easy later.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle in the olive oil and toss in your chopped onion. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes, until the onion turns soft and slightly golden. This step gives a subtle sweetness and sets the tone for all the savory layers to come.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Add your ground beef to the skillet with the onion. Break it up as it cooks, letting it brown evenly. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper so the beef soaks up plenty of flavor. Once the meat is fully cooked with no pink remaining, drain off any excess grease—this keeps your casserole from turning out too heavy.

Step 4: Build the Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole

Now comes the fun part: layering! First, spread the cooked white rice in an even layer on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Next, add the corn, scattering it over the rice. Then, spoon in the savory ground beef and onion mixture. Pour the undrained diced tomatoes over the top, letting the juices seep down and bring everything together. Finish by sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the surface.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, letting all those flavors meld. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, just until the cheese melts into gooey, golden perfection. Give the casserole about 5 minutes to rest before serving—this helps the layers set for beautiful slices.

How to Serve Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped parsley scattered across the top gives your Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole a splash of color and a little fresh bite. If you like, a sprinkle of green onions, diced jalapenos, or even a drizzle of hot sauce would all be delicious finishing flourishes.

Side Dishes

This casserole already covers the comfort food basics, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp, tangy coleslaw, a side of steamed green beans, or some fluffy buttermilk biscuits. For an easy weeknight meal, a green salad and a pitcher of sweet tea complete the Southern vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, try spooning the casserole into individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for serving at a dinner party. Topping each little portion with extra cheese and parsley gives them a gorgeous, personal touch. Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole also makes a fantastic filling for loaded baked potatoes or stuffed bell peppers for a twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers are a dream—just transfer any remaining casserole to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld, making Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole taste even better the next day!

Freezing

This casserole freezes like a champion. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and pop in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also zap individual portions in the microwave for a speedy lunch, just be sure to heat until piping hot.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a lovely nutty flavor and a bit more chew. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before layering into your casserole.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to toss in black beans, bell peppers, or even chopped zucchini for an extra boost of color and nutrients. This recipe is flexible enough to welcome all your favorites.

Is there a way to make this casserole spicier?

Definitely! Swap the cheddar for pepper jack cheese, add a pinch of cayenne, or layer in some diced pickled jalapenos to turn up the heat in your Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You sure can. Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it straight from the fridge, just adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Mild cheddar gives that classic melty top, but don’t hesitate to try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend for even more gooey goodness. Just choose a cheese that melts well and that you love.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for soul-soothing Southern comfort, you just can’t go wrong with Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole. Every bite is savory, satisfying, and built for sharing. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making this layered classic a new family favorite!

Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a family dinner. Layers of seasoned ground beef, corn, rice, and cheese come together to create a satisfying meal that is easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Mixture:

1 lb ground beef
1 small yellow onion, chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Other Ingredients:

2 cups cooked white rice
1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Cook the Ground Beef Mixture: In a skillet, sauté onion, then add ground beef and season. Cook until browned, then drain.
Layer the Casserole: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer rice, corn, beef mixture, tomatoes, and cheese.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Serve: Let it rest before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.