The Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe is a hearty, soul-warming classic that brings together tender beef, comforting veggies, creamy tomato, and a crown of bubbling cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of dish you reach for when you need dinner to be satisfying yet wonderfully unfussy—an all-in-one meal that’s perfect for a bustling weeknight or a cozy Sunday supper. One of the joys of this recipe is watching the simple layers transform into a flavorful casserole that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Each slice delivers savory bites of beef and vegetables, aromatic rice, and gooey cheese—guaranteed to have friends and family asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe serves a purpose, making the end result rich, colorful, and satisfying. The magic truly comes from how these everyday staples layer to create something undeniably special in both taste and presentation.
- Ground Beef: Go for lean beef if you want a lighter dish, or standard ground beef for extra juiciness and flavor.
- Uncooked White Rice: This forms the bed for all the other layers and soaks up delicious flavors while baking.
- Canned Corn (drained): Adds pops of sweetness and a soft, golden texture to the mix.
- Canned Green Beans (drained): Brings a touch of earthiness and beautiful color contrast between the layers.
- Condensed Tomato Soup: Acts as a tangy, creamy binder that holds the whole casserole together.
- Small Onion (chopped): Sautéed until soft, it infuses the casserole with mellow, sweet undertones.
- Water: Helps cook the rice and makes sure the layers stay moist and cohesive.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The star topping—melts into a golden, gooey crust that everyone will fight over.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Provides the perfect hit of savory umami and depth, tying the beef and veggies together.
- Garlic Powder: Lends a subtle aromatic warmth to the beef mixture.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors in all the layers.
- Black Pepper: Adds gentle heat and a bit of a kick to balance the richness.
- Olive Oil: Used to sauté the onion, this gets the flavor base started off right.
How to Make Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Beef
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s beautifully soft and translucent—this step is key for coaxing out the onion’s sweetness. Toss in your ground beef, breaking it up as it browns. Make sure to drain off any excess grease once the meat is cooked through, to keep the casserole from getting too oily.
Step 2: Season the Beef Mixture
Now, it’s time for flavor! Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it all a good mix to ensure every crumb of beef gets coated in those bold Southern flavors. Set this mixture aside while you prepare your baking dish.
Step 3: Layer the Base Ingredients
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or nonstick spray. Start building your Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe by spreading the uncooked white rice evenly along the bottom—this creates the perfect foundation. Next, layer on the drained corn, followed by the green beans, making sure each layer is nice and even so every bite is balanced.
Step 4: Add the Beef Layer
Spoon the seasoned beef and onion mixture across the vegetables, smoothing it out so it covers every inch. This ensures the savory juices from the beef will seep down, infusing the rice and veggies as the casserole bakes.
Step 5: Pour on the Tomato Soup Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the condensed tomato soup and water until it’s smooth and pourable. Gently drizzle this mixture over the top of the casserole, letting it seep into every nook and cranny. This step is what gives the casserole its creamy richness and melds the flavors together.
Step 6: Bake and Finish with Cheese
Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and slide it into the oven. Bake for 60 minutes, letting the rice cook and absorb all that tomato flavor. After an hour, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese in an even layer across the top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, for another 10 minutes—or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing, so the layers set beautifully.
How to Serve Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives brings a little freshness and a pop of color. For extra zing, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce will take your Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe to the next level, especially if you like a little heat or creaminess with each bite.
Side Dishes
Although this casserole is a complete meal by itself, you can round out your plate with a crisp green salad or homemade biscuits to soak up all those saucy bits. Steamed broccoli or roasted sweet potatoes also complement the savory flavors and add extra nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the casserole into neat squares and serve each piece over a bed of sautéed spinach for a playful twist. For potlucks or parties, scoop portions into mini ramekins for individual servings. And for family dinner, just bring the whole bubbling dish straight to the table—it’s meant to be shared and enjoyed together!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe cool to room temperature, then cover the dish or transfer portions into airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, it will keep beautifully for up to 3 days and the flavors only get better overnight.
Freezing
This casserole freezes surprisingly well. Cool it completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil (or transfer to a freezer-safe container). It’ll be good for up to 3 months. For easy weeknight dinners, freeze in individual portions to pull out as needed.
Reheating
When you’re ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm refrigerated or thawed casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through (cover with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out). You can also use the microwave for single servings, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely! If you prefer brown rice in your Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe, just add a bit more water (about 1/4 cup more) and increase the baking time by 10 to 15 minutes to ensure the rice cooks all the way through.
Are fresh or frozen vegetables okay instead of canned?
Yes, frozen corn and green beans work beautifully—just thaw and drain well before layering. Fresh vegetables can also be used for an even brighter flavor; blanching them first can help soften them up.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make your Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe gluten-free, simply choose certified gluten-free tomato soup and Worcestershire sauce. Check ingredient labels to be sure—then the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to swap or add in peas, carrots, or even sautéed bell peppers. Just be sure to keep the total quantity similar so the casserole layers bake evenly.
What’s the best way to get a crispy cheese topping?
For an extra crispy cheese top, switch your oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes of baking (keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn). This will give your Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe an irresistible, golden-brown finish.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cozy, reliable dinner that brings big Southern flavor with very little fuss, you absolutely have to try the Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that will quickly earn a spot in your family’s comfort food hall of fame—so don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!
Print
Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. Layers of ground beef, rice, vegetables, and cheese come together in this easy-to-make casserole that’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Other Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) green beans, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed tomato soup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the beef: In a skillet, sauté the onion in olive oil, then add ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
- Layer the casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer rice, corn, green beans, and beef mixture.
- Add tomato soup: Whisk tomato soup with water and pour over the casserole.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove foil, add cheese, and bake for 10 more minutes.
- Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Try adding hot sauce to the tomato soup for extra flavor.
- Frozen vegetables can be substituted for canned.
- Brown rice can be used, adjusting cooking time and liquid.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
