Dee'S Seven Layer Casserole
Dee'S Seven Layer Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring layers of potatoes, vegetables, and ground beef, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the peeled and sliced potatoes in the casserole dish.
- Add a layer of sliced carrots on top of the potatoes.
- Next, add a layer of sliced celery.
- Sprinkle chopped onion over the celery layer.
- Add chopped green pepper as the next layer.
- Crumble the ground beef over the vegetables.
- Pour the can of tomatoes over all the layers.
- Salt and pepper each layer to taste.
- Bake the casserole at 350° to 375° for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary between layers. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use frozen vegetables if fresh ones aren't available, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole alongside a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner spread or can stand alone as a filling dish. Consider topping with shredded cheese during the last 15 minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 25-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dee'S Seven Layer Casserole contains roughly 1075 calories, with 33g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (144% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (102% of the Daily Value), and potassium (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 16g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use different vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add any vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even corn. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the vegetables used.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn't contain any wheat products. Just ensure that any canned tomatoes you use are certified gluten-free, as some brands may add thickeners.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).