Southern Beef Casserole
Get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of the South with this Southern Beef Casserole. Layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and fresh vegetables come together in a single dish that brings warmth to the table. It’s an easy recipe that tastes like home—perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering.
I can still recall the first time I baked this Southern Beef Casserole for my family on a chilly evening. As the aroma of slow-cooked beef and veggies wafted through our home, my kids wandered into the kitchen, asking when it would be ready. They could hardly wait for that first bite! Since then, this casserole has become a staple in our home, winning smiles and requests for seconds at every meal.
Why This Southern Beef Casserole
- Simple Layers, Big Flavors: Thinly sliced potatoes, juicy beef, and sweet onions meld into a hearty, savory blend.
- Versatile & Wholesome: Add any veggies on hand, making it a practical option for using up produce.
- Perfect for Meal Prepping: Assemble ahead of time and bake when you’re ready—ideal for busy schedules.
- Kid-Approved Comfort: Familiar ingredients in a single dish that even picky eaters can’t resist!
What You Need To Make This Southern Beef Casserole(Serves 6)
- Russet Potatoes (3 large, thinly sliced)
- Starchy and sturdy enough to absorb the dish’s flavors without losing structure.
- Lean Ground Beef (1 lb / ~0.45 kg, browned & crumbled)
- Adds rich protein while keeping the casserole lighter on grease.
- Onions (2 large, sliced into rings)
- Sweetens during baking, delivering classic homestyle taste.
- Tomatoes (2 large, sliced) OR (1 can / ~15 oz diced tomatoes)
- Introduces juicy tanginess that balances the savory layers.
- Green Bell Peppers (1½ / ~225g, chopped)
- Gives a crisp, garden-fresh bite to every forkful.
- Olive Oil (as needed)
- Light drizzle over potatoes, aiding even cooking and flavor infusion.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
- Highlights all other tastes, ensuring well-seasoned layers.
How to Southern Beef Casserole
- Preheat Oven
- Warm your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Layer Potatoes
- Spread thin potato slices at the bottom of the dish. Drizzle them with a bit of olive oil, plus a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Add Beef & Veggies
- Over the potatoes, scatter browned ground beef.
- Top with onion rings, followed by sliced tomatoes (or diced if using canned).
- Finish with chopped green bell peppers. Season each layer with salt and pepper as desired.
- Cover & Bake
- Seal the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for about 2 hours, allowing flavors to meld and the casserole to become fork-tender and bubbly.
- Serve & Enjoy
- Once it’s done, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. Slice or scoop generous portions onto plates, and enjoy its warm, comforting layers.
Tip
If you want perfectly tender potatoes, parboil them for about 3–5 minutes before layering. This brief pre-cook ensures the potatoes soften completely while absorbing savory flavors during baking, giving you a consistently creamy texture in every bite.
In sum, this Southern Beef Casserole delivers layers of simple ingredients for a meal that’s big on flavor but short on fuss. It’s the kind of dish that gathers everyone around the table, sharing stories and savoring each cozy, homestyle bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, expect this comforting casserole to leave everyone feeling happily satisfied.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes! Assemble everything a day ahead, then refrigerate. Bake when you’re ready—just add a few extra minutes if starting from cold.2. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russets?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness that complements the savory beef and onions.3. Are there other vegetables I can include?
Feel free to toss in zucchini, carrots, or any produce you have on hand to bulk up the casserole.4. What can I serve with this dish?
A fresh green salad, steamed veggies, or cornbread pair beautifully and complete your Southern-inspired meal.5. How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.Southern Beef Casserole
Ingredients
Russet Potatoes (3 large, thinly sliced)
- Starchy and sturdy enough to absorb the dish’s flavors without losing structure.
Lean Ground Beef (1 lb / ~0.45 kg, browned & crumbled)
- Adds rich protein while keeping the casserole lighter on grease.
Onions (2 large, sliced into rings)
- Sweetens during baking delivering classic homestyle taste.
Tomatoes (2 large, sliced) OR (1 can / ~15 oz diced tomatoes)
- Introduces juicy tanginess that balances the savory layers.
Green Bell Peppers (1½ / ~225g, chopped)
- Gives a crisp garden-fresh bite to every forkful.
Olive Oil (as needed)
- Light drizzle over potatoes aiding even cooking and flavor infusion.
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
- Highlights all other tastes ensuring well-seasoned layers.
Instructions
Preheat Oven
- Warm your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Layer Potatoes
- Spread thin potato slices at the bottom of the dish. Drizzle them with a bit of olive oil, plus a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Add Beef & Veggies
- Over the potatoes, scatter browned ground beef.
- Top with onion rings, followed by sliced tomatoes (or diced if using canned).
- Finish with chopped green bell peppers. Season each layer with salt and pepper as desired.
Cover & Bake
- Seal the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for about 2 hours, allowing flavors to meld and the casserole to become fork-tender and bubbly.
Serve & Enjoy
- Once it’s done, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. Slice or scoop generous portions onto plates, and enjoy its warm, comforting layers.
