This Easy Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is a comforting dish filled with tasty layers of ground beef, cheese, and more! It’s like a warm hug on a plate.
Who wouldn’t love cheese in every bite? Just layer your ingredients, pop it in the oven, and in no time, dinner is served! I can’t resist the cheesy goodness when it’s ready! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, giving flavor and heartiness. You can use turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Plant-based crumbles work too if you prefer a meatless meal!
Onion and Garlic: These add wonderful aroma and depth to your casserole. If you’re short on time, using onion powder and garlic powder could work in a pinch. Fresh is always best if you have it!
Condensed Soups: I love using cream of mushroom and cream of chicken for their richness. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can find gluten-free versions at the store or make your own using a simple roux.
Sour Cream: This ingredient adds creaminess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want a healthier twist, plus it adds a nice tang.
Tater Tots: The crispy topping is essential! If you can’t find tater tots, frozen hash browns or even thinly sliced potatoes will work as an alternative. Just adjust the baking time!
How Do You Make Sure Your Casserole is Creamy and Not Dry?
A big part of making this casserole creamy is properly mixing your soups and sour cream. Make sure to stir everything well after adding each new ingredient. This helps keep the texture even throughout.
- After browning the beef and draining the fat, mix in the soups and sour cream gradually. Aim for a smooth texture.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking! This lets the flavors meld together and keeps it moist.
- If you find your casserole looks dry, add a splash of broth or additional sour cream before baking!
Easy Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Mix:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Topping:
- 1 (16 oz) package frozen tater tots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30-35 minutes to bake. Including some time for resting after baking, you should have this hearty meal ready in about an hour! Perfect for a busy weeknight.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Sauté:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat up the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and aromatic.
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and paprika if you like that extra flavor. Cook the beef until it’s browned and fully cooked through, making sure to break it up with a spoon as you go. Remember to drain any excess fat when you’re done!
3. Mix the Creamy Base:
Next, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream into the cooked beef mixture. Make sure everything is well mixed together for a creamy texture. This is the heart of your casserole, so mix it up nice!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly as the first layer. Then, sprinkle the drained corn evenly over the beef. Top it off with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Add the Tater Tots:
Now, arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. This will give your casserole that crispy, golden topping that everyone loves!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbly. The aroma will be irresistible!
7. Let it Rest:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help everything set beautifully.
Enjoy this hearty, cheesy Southern casserole that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner! It’s sure to become a family favorite with its layers of deliciousness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for a leaner option. Just make sure to season well, as they might be a bit milder in flavor compared to beef.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and layer the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake it, let it sit out for about 30 minutes to bring it to room temperature before popping it in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave it in individual portions.
Can I Use Fresh Vegetables Instead of Corn?
Definitely! Feel free to swap corn for fresh or frozen vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just chop them up and add them in for a veggie-packed twist!