seven layer casserole recipe

seven layer casserole recipe

The Best seven layer casserole recipe

I have been making seven layer casserole for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. This recipe is a classic American dish that has been around for decades, and its origins are unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the southern United States. The dish is made with a combination of ground beef, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of cheeses, all layered on top of each other in a baking dish. When I take this casserole out of the oven, the aroma that fills the kitchen is incredible – it’s a mix of savory beef and cheese that makes everyone’s stomach growl with hunger.

My kids love helping me make this casserole because they get to layer all the different ingredients on top of each other, creating a beautiful rainbow effect in the baking dish. One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make – just brown some ground beef, cook up some onions and tomatoes, layer everything in a baking dish, and bake until hot and bubbly. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion – whether I’m serving it at a family dinner or taking it to a potluck. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the ground beef and vegetables – making it a healthier option than many other casseroles out there.

And let’s not forget about the leftovers – this casserole reheats beautifully and can be served for days after it’s first made. My family loves it so much that we often have requests for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) It’s become a staple in our household – we make it at least once a week during the cooler months of the year. I’ve tried many different variations on this recipe over the years, but my family always comes back to the classic version.

It’s just too good not to love! The combination of flavors and textures is amazing – you get the savory taste of ground beef mixed with the sweetness of tomatoes and cheese. And let me tell you, when you take your first bite, you’ll be hooked too! This casserole is also super versatile – we like to serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a simple meal.

But feel free to get creative and add your own favorite toppings or sides! We’ve even served it at holiday gatherings – everyone loves it so much that they beg for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) My friends all rave about this recipe too – they say it’s their favorite casserole out there. And I think I know why – it’s just that perfect combination of flavors and textures that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Seven Layer Casserole

Seven Layer Casserole

4.6 from 542 votes

A hearty and comforting casserole with layers of ground beef, rice, vegetables, and cheese. This dish is perfect for a family dinner and can be prepared ahead of time.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and cook the chopped onion and minced garlic for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink.
4Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, then stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes; let it simmer for 2 minutes.
5In a separate bowl, combine the uncooked rice and beef broth.
6Spread the rice mixture evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7Layer the corn and black beans over the rice.
8Then spoon the meat mixture evenly over the beans and corn, spreading it to cover the entire surface.
9Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
10Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the casserole is bubbling.
11Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.
12Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
13Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife
Cutting board
Aluminum foil

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 950mg🌾Total Carbs: 52g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeno or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.

Watch Video Of How Seven Layer Casserole Works

This seven layer casserole recipe is a reliable dish that works for any occasion. It is simple to put together and the ingredients are easy to find.

The layers of beef, vegetables, and cheese create a satisfying meal that feels like home. I always feel good serving this to my family because it is filling and nutritious.

It is perfect for family gatherings because you can double the recipe and bake it in a larger dish. Everyone always goes back for seconds.

I recommend trying this recipe for your next dinner. It will become a regular in your meal rotation.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Seven Layer Casserole

Q: What is seven layer casserole?

Seven layer casserole is a classic American dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, onions, and various cheeses layered on top of each other in a baking dish.

Q: Is seven layer casserole healthy?

While this casserole does contain some unhealthy ingredients like ground beef and cheese, it also has its fair share of nutritious components like tomatoes and onions.

Q: Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! One of my favorite things about seven layer casserole is how easily you can customize it to suit your tastes.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I reheat this casserole?

Yes! Simply place leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Q: What are some fun ways to serve seven layer casserole?

We like to serve it with a side salad or crusty bread for a simple meal.

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