Supreme Layered Beef Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping, this Supreme Layered Beef Casserole Recipe is your go-to choice. Packed with layers of seasoned beef, creamy sauces, and melted cheese, this casserole will quickly become a household favorite. Stay with us as we walk you through the ingredients, variations, and step-by-step cooking instructions, along with tips on presentation and how to avoid common mistakes. Let’s get started!

What is a Supreme Layered Beef Casserole?

A Supreme Layered Beef Casserole is a comforting, multi-layered dish made primarily from seasoned ground beef, creamy sauces, and melty cheeses, with added layers of vegetables, pasta, or even tortillas. It's the ultimate comfort food that brings together the rich flavors of seasoned meat and hearty ingredients, creating a meal that’s satisfying, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd. The casserole can be customized with different toppings, sauces, and fillings to suit personal preferences.

Ingredients List for Supreme Layered Beef Casserole

Before diving into the recipe, here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients you'll need to make the Supreme Layered Beef Casserole:

• 1 ½ pounds of ground beef: Choose lean or regular ground beef based on your preference for fat content.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds flavor and texture to the beef layer.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For an extra kick of flavor.
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes: Adds moisture and a subtle tangy flavor.
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce: For a rich, hearty base.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: For a touch of herbs and spices.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the dish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Basic seasonings to enhance flavor.
• 2 cups cooked pasta or egg noodles: Forms one of the layers of the casserole.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts and creates a cheesy, gooey topping.
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Blends with cheddar for extra cheesiness.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and balances the richness of the beef and cheese.
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened: Complements the sour cream to form a creamy layer.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the onion and garlic.
• Optional toppings: Sliced green onions, jalapeños, or cilantro for garnishing.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best parts of a casserole is its versatility. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Replace beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use sautéed mushrooms and lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese and replace sour cream and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate layers of spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to sneak in some extra veggies.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture if you prefer a spicy casserole.
• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Taco Casserole Twist: Add taco seasoning to the beef and replace the pasta with tortillas or tortilla chips for a Mexican-inspired twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking a Supreme Layered Beef Casserole may seem complicated, but it’s actually a straightforward process if you follow these simple steps. Let's walk through each layer and how to prepare it.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole will cook evenly once assembled.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the beef mixture is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 2 cups of pasta or egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Layer

In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup sour cream and 1 cup softened cream cheese until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

1. In a 9x13-inch casserole dish, start with a layer of the cooked pasta at the bottom.
2. Spread half of the beef mixture evenly over the pasta.
3. Top with half of the sour cream and cream cheese mixture.
4. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
5. Repeat the layers, starting with another layer of pasta, followed by the remaining beef mixture, sour cream mixture, and cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to settle and makes it easier to cut into portions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the resting period: Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve without falling apart.
2. Overcooking the pasta: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Not seasoning the beef well enough: Season each layer adequately to avoid blandness.
4. Using too much liquid: Drain excess liquid from canned tomatoes to prevent a watery casserole.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can take your Supreme Layered Beef Casserole from simple to stunning. Consider these ideas for serving:

How to Serve Supreme Layered Beef Casserole

• Portion control: Cut the casserole into square servings for easy plating.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley, or top with sliced green onions for added color and freshness.
• Sides: Serve with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even a light coleslaw to complement the richness of the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Supreme Layered Beef Casserole

• Layer visibility: Serve the casserole in transparent glass dishes to showcase the beautiful layers of pasta, beef, and cheese.
• Family-style serving: Serve the casserole straight from the dish in the center of the table for a casual, inviting meal.
• Individual ramekins: If you’re feeling fancy, prepare and serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes for personalized servings.

Supreme Layered Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, covered, and simply bake when ready to serve.
• Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the layers, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers for the week, feel free to double the recipe and bake it in a larger pan or two smaller ones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out cheddar and mozzarella for other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even Swiss.

2. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and make sure all other ingredients, like tomato sauces, are gluten-free.

3. Can I add vegetables to the layers?
Definitely! Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven.

5. Can I make this casserole spicy?
Yes, add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even hot sauce to the beef mixture to increase the spice level.

Conclusion

This Supreme Layered Beef Casserole Recipe is the perfect blend of savory, creamy, and cheesy goodness, offering the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or prepping for a gathering, this recipe is versatile, customizable, and easy to make ahead of time. Try it out today, and you’ll soon find it becoming a regular favorite in your household! Enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite!

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