Supreme Layered Beef Casserole Recipe

Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a delicious, hearty dish that is sure to become a household favorite? Look no further than the Supreme Layered Beef Casserole! This flavorful, satisfying meal is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to wow your guests. Read on to discover how to make this crowd-pleasing casserole, filled with layers of seasoned beef, vegetables, cheese, and creamy sauces. Let’s get cooking and create a dish that is sure to earn you rave reviews!

this Recipe

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What is Supreme Layered Beef Casserole?

The Supreme Layered Beef Casserole is an all-in-one dish that combines seasoned ground beef, creamy layers of cheese, a medley of vegetables, and delicious sauces, all baked to perfection. Casseroles like this are popular because they’re simple to make, easy to customize, and can feed a crowd. In this recipe, you’ll experience layers of savory beef, tender pasta or potatoes, fresh veggies, and gooey cheese that all come together to create a symphony of flavors. It’s perfect for meal prepping, reheating, and sharing at large gatherings.

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Ingredients List for Supreme Layered Beef Casserole

Before we dive into the cooking process, gather all your ingredients to make this Supreme Layered Beef Casserole. Here’s everything you’ll need:

For the Casserole Base:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with liquid)
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, macaroni, or rotini)
• 2 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Layer:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley

For the Cheesy Top:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of a Supreme Layered Beef Casserole is how flexible it can be. Here are some substitutions and variations to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

1. Ground Meat Alternatives: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives like soy crumbles for a vegetarian version.
2. Low-Carb Option: If you’re avoiding carbs, swap the pasta for thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant. These veggies offer a low-carb option while still maintaining delicious layers.
3. Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free casserole, replace the ricotta, sour cream, and mozzarella with plant-based or lactose-free alternatives.
4. Add Veggies: Feel free to throw in extra vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost the nutritional value of the dish.
5. Spice It Up: For a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get started? Here’s a step-by-step guide to make the perfect Supreme Layered Beef Casserole from scratch. Take your time, enjoy the process, and let your kitchen fill with the mouth-watering aroma of this incredible dish.

1. Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

• Boil a large pot of salted water and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. You want the pasta to be al dente, as it will cook further in the oven. Drain the pasta and set aside.

3. Brown the Beef

• In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their liquid), tomato paste, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, and beef broth. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Prepare the Creamy Layer

• In a separate mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, ricotta cheese, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

5. Layer the Casserole

• Now for the fun part—layering! Spread half of the cooked pasta in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
• Spoon half of the beef mixture over the pasta, spreading it evenly.
• Add a layer of the creamy cheese mixture on top of the beef, then repeat the layers: pasta, beef mixture, and creamy cheese.

6. Top with Cheese

• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

7. Bake the Casserole

• Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

8. Rest and Serve

• Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Supreme Layered Beef Casserole turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Not Cooking Pasta Al Dente: If your pasta is overcooked, it will become mushy once baked. Be sure to cook it al dente so it maintains its texture.
2. Skipping the Rest Time: It’s tempting to dig in right away, but allowing the casserole to rest ensures the layers stay intact when you slice into it.
3. Too Much Liquid: Be careful not to add too much liquid to the beef mixture. The casserole needs to be thick, not soupy, to hold its shape.
4. Overcooking: Keep an eye on the casserole while it’s baking. Overbaking can result in a dry dish, especially on the top layer.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving your Supreme Layered Beef Casserole, presentation is key! Here are some tips to make your dish look as good as it tastes:

How to Serve Supreme Layered Beef Casserole:

• Slice the casserole into even portions and serve hot, preferably with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation Ideas for Supreme Layered Beef Casserole:

• Serve the casserole in the baking dish for a rustic, family-style meal.
• For individual portions, scoop out each layer and serve on a decorative plate with extra shredded cheese sprinkled on top.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or drizzle of hot sauce for added flair.

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Supreme Layered Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Supreme Layered Beef Casserole is a success:

1. Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when needed. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
2. Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Simply prepare the dish as directed, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
3. Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free option, and make sure all other ingredients (such as tomato paste) are gluten-free as well.

Q: How can I make this casserole healthier?
A: To lighten up the dish, you can use lean ground beef or turkey, opt for whole-wheat or veggie pasta, and use reduced-fat cheeses and sour cream.

Q: What side dishes go well with this casserole?
A: A fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread are excellent accompaniments to this hearty casserole.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
A: Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.

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Conclusion

The Supreme Layered Beef Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting, hearty dish that will bring people together around the dinner table. With its rich layers of seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta, this casserole is sure to satisfy any appetite. Whether you're preparing it for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a potluck, it's a recipe that's both versatile and delicious. Be sure to try this casserole recipe soon and share it with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

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