Layered Ground Beef Casserole
Layered Ground Beef Casserole offers a hearty combination of seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy soup, all baked to perfection. Its comforting flavors make it ideal for family dinners and gatherings, providing a satisfying, well-rounded meal with tender potatoes and savory layers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart casserole, layer half the sliced onion, celery, and green pepper; season with salt and pepper.
- Top with ground beef; season with 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
- Pour on the tomato sauce.
- Add the remaining onion, celery, and green pepper on top.
- Arrange the sliced potatoes over the top.
- Spread the cream of celery soup over the potatoes.
- Bake uncovered in a preheated 350°F oven for 1 to 1½ hours or until the potatoes are tender and the top is lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep time, consider using pre-sliced vegetables. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the casserole. If you're looking to add more flavor, try incorporating some herbs like thyme or oregano. Additionally, using a different type of soup, such as cream of mushroom, can change the flavor profile while keeping it creamy.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, such as green beans. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a warm crusty bread or a side of garlic bread. It's also great for meal prep and can be frozen for later enjoyment.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Ground Beef Casserole contains roughly 307 calories, with 10g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1400mg per serving (61% 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 use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables if you're short on time. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before layering in the casserole to avoid excess moisture, which can make the dish soggy.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce with the ground beef. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just allow extra time for cooking 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).