This hearty Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole is full of flavor and comfort! It features layers of beef, cheese, beans, and tortillas baked together for a tasty meal.
When I make this, it’s like a party in my oven! Plus, it’s great for leftovers. You can whip it up easily, and it makes everyone around the table smile. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use lean ground beef for this recipe to keep things healthier. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can work just as well, or even a mix of ground beef and turkey for added flavor!
Onion: A small onion adds great flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use minced onion or onion powder. For a different twist, shallots or green onions could also be lovely substitutes.
Chili Beans: Chili beans are fantastic for their flavor and texture. If those aren’t available, try black beans, kidney beans, or even baked beans in a pinch!
Tortillas: Flour tortillas make this casserole easy to layer and serve. Corn tortillas are a gluten-free option, but they can be a bit more delicate. Consider cutting them into strips to layer better.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack are my go-tos for a creamy, melty finish. Feel free to substitute with pepper jack for a kick or use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Layer the Casserole for the Best Flavor?
Getting the layers right in this casserole is key! Each layer builds flavor and texture, so take care as you assemble. Here are a few tips:
- Start with a tortilla on the bottom to form a solid base.
- Use about one-fifth of your beef mixture for each layer, spreading it evenly for balanced flavor.
- Sprinkle cheese generously in between layers to help everything stick together.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the layers based on your preferences; if you love more cheese, add it!
- Finish with a top layer of cheese to create that golden, bubbly crust. Trust me, it’s worth the extra sprinkle!
Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans (or pinto beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 1 cup salsa or picante sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese and Tortilla Layer:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 5-6 flour tortillas (6-inch size)
Optional Garnish:
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
Miscellaneous:
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 25 minutes to bake. Once it’s in the oven, you can relax while it bubbles away, for a total time of about 40 minutes until you’re ready to serve up this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil. This helps to make sure nothing sticks during cooking.
2. Cook the Beef and Onion:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned (about 7-8 minutes) and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat from the pan to keep things nice and light.
3. Season the Beef:
Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to your skillet. Give everything a good stir, and let it cook for an additional minute until it smells amazing!
4. Mix in the Beans and Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add some tasty ingredients! Stir in the drained chili beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, and salsa. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can mingle together beautifully.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
It’s layering time! Start by placing one tortilla on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Spread about one-fifth of the beef mixture evenly over the tortilla.
6. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle a generous amount of the mixed cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the beef layer. The more cheese, the merrier!
7. Repeat the Layers:
Continue alternating the layers: add another tortilla, a beef mixture, and cheese until you have five layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top. If you’re using black olives, sprinkle them on the top layer—this adds a nice touch!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden.
9. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together better when you serve it. Cut it into squares and enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for beef. Just be mindful that it may have a milder flavor, so consider adding a touch more spices to enhance the taste.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Tortillas?
If you want to mix it up, corn tortillas are a good alternative! For a low-carb option, try using sliced zucchini or eggplant as the layering component instead of tortillas.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in individual portions or warm in the oven until heated through. You can add a splash of salsa or cheese on top for extra flavor!