7 Layer Casserole
A hearty, layered casserole featuring rice, corn, ground beef, and savory tomato sauce topped with bacon. This comforting dish offers a balanced blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare and full of bold tastes, it satisfies hearty appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place ingredients in a casserole or baking dish with a tight-fitting lid, starting with rice and corn.
- Add the ground beef, chopped onion and pepper, tomato sauce, water, salt, and pepper in order.
- Finish with bacon strips on top of the layered ingredients.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the bacon is crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or black beans. If you prefer a spicier kick, add jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce. Make sure to rinse the rice before adding it to the dish for better texture. You can also use leftover cooked rice to save time, just reduce the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with cornbread or garlic bread for a comforting dinner. If you're hosting, consider serving it alongside Aunt Blanch Casserole for a delightful spread that showcases hearty flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover the casserole with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for faster reheating. Ensure it's heated thoroughly before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 7 Layer Casserole contains roughly 301 calories, with 14g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2386mg per serving (104% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it cooks through.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can substitute it with diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes. For a different flavor profile, try using salsa or a homemade tomato-based sauce. Adjust the seasoning accordingly, as some alternatives may be more seasoned than plain tomato sauce.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, consider using brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber. You can also reduce the amount of bacon or use turkey bacon as a leaner alternative. Adding more vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, can enhance nutrition while keeping it flavorful.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).