Cheesy Layered Beef Casserole

Cheesy Layered Beef Casserole

Introduction

If you love comfort food, then this Cheesy Layered Beef Casserole is going to be your new favorite! It combines seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, creamy layers, and sautéed vegetables into one irresistible dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. Think of it as a mix between a lasagna and a Tex-Mex bake, bringing together bold flavors, gooey cheese, and a satisfying bite in every forkful!

History of the Dish

Layered casseroles have been a staple in American homes for decades, dating back to the 1950s, when home cooks began creating one-dish meals to save time and feed large families. This dish is inspired by a mix of Italian lasagna and Tex-Mex flavors, combining cheese, beef, peppers, onions, and a creamy topping for an ultra-satisfying bake.

Ingredients

For the Meat Layer:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner version)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

For the Layers:

• 8 lasagna noodles or flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup sour cream or ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
3. Drain any excess grease.
4. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic; cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
5. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, and cumin. Stir well.
6. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Layer

1. In a bowl, mix sour cream, cream cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
2. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Layer 1: Place a layer of lasagna noodles or tortillas at the bottom.
4. Layer 2: Add half of the seasoned beef mixture and spread evenly.
5. Layer 3: Sprinkle a layer of cheddar cheese.
6. Layer 4: Add a layer of the creamy cheese mixture.
7. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of cheese.

Step 4: Bake

1. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Methods & Cooking Tips

• For a crunchier topping, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
• Want a spicier kick? Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
• Prefer a low-carb version? Use thinly sliced zucchini instead of noodles or tortillas.
• Make it ahead and refrigerate overnight before baking for deeper flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 32g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 4g

Health Benefits

• High in protein from the beef and cheese.
• Packed with vitamins from bell peppers and tomatoes.
• Balanced carbs and fats, making it a filling meal.

Who Loves This Dish?

This casserole is a family favorite—kids love the cheesy layers, and adults enjoy the bold flavors. It’s also a hit at potlucks and dinner parties, where it disappears fast! If you love lasagna, Tex-Mex, or cheesy comfort food, this is for you.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Layered Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish—easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a family, or just craving a hearty dish, this recipe is a must-try. Make it tonight and enjoy every cheesy, meaty, creamy bite