Southern Five Layer Beef Casserole (Print-Friendly Format)

Classic layers of beef, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers baked for rich Southern comfort.

# Required Ingredients:

→ Main Components

01 - 3 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
02 - 1 pound (450 grams) lean ground beef, browned and crumbled
03 - 2 large onions, sliced into rings and separated
04 - 2 large tomatoes, sliced or 425 grams canned diced tomatoes
05 - 1.5 green bell peppers, chopped

→ Seasonings and Oils

06 - Kosher salt, to taste
07 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
08 - Olive oil, as needed

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) to ensure even baking.
02 - Lightly grease a 33 x 23 cm (9x13-inch) baking pan with butter or nonstick spray.
03 - Arrange an even layer of thinly sliced russet potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
04 - Drizzle the potato layer with a small amount of olive oil.
05 - Scatter browned and crumbled lean ground beef evenly over the potatoes.
06 - Place a layer of sliced onion rings evenly atop the beef.
07 - Layer sliced tomatoes or evenly distribute the canned diced tomatoes over the onions.
08 - Top with chopped green bell peppers to complete the layers.
09 - Lightly season each layer with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
10 - Cover the baking dish securely with aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
11 - Bake for 2 hours until vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
12 - Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

# Additional Information:

01 - To prepare as a gluten-free dish, confirm that all ingredients, especially ground beef and cooking sprays, are certified gluten-free, as some additives may contain gluten.