Best Easy Seven-Layer Casserole Recipe

Seven-layer casserole stacks ground beef, rice, vegetables, and cheese for a hearty, family-style one-dish dinner. This protein-rich, budget-friendly comfort food is a Midwestern potluck tradition.

Cook 80 min Difficulty NORMAL 480 kcal
#high protein #comfort food #midwestern classic #budget friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • ground beef 1.5 lbs
  • uncooked long-grain white rice 1 cup
  • whole kernel corn 1 cup
  • canned diced tomatoes 15 oz
  • shredded cheddar cheese 1.5 cups
  • green bell pepper 1 pieces
  • yellow onion 1 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • kosher salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • garlic powder 0.5 tsp
  • dried oregano 0.5 tsp
  • water 1 cup
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 38 g 32%
Protein 26 g 22%
Fat 24 g 46%
Serving size 325g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish for even heat distribution.

  2. 2

    Spread the uncooked rice evenly on the bottom of the prepared dish. Layer the whole kernel corn over the rice to help soak up moisture.

  3. 3

    Sprinkle half the kosher salt and black pepper over the rice and corn, ensuring even seasoning.

  4. 4

    Dice the green bell pepper and onion, then scatter them evenly on top of the corn layer.

  5. 5

    Evenly crumble the raw ground beef over the vegetable layer, pressing gently to distribute. Season the beef with remaining salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano.

  6. 6

    Pour the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) over the beef layer, covering completely. Add 1 cup of water by pouring gently around the edges to avoid disturbing layers.

  7. 7

    Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake on the center rack for 60 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then return to oven uncovered and bake 15–20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

  8. 8

    Remove casserole from the oven and let rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing, allowing the layers to set for neater portions.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Seven-Layer Casserole recipe?
The key ingredient is ground beef, which provides both hearty flavor and substantial protein to the casserole. Combined with cheddar cheese, it forms the main protein-rich foundation, giving the dish its satisfying, comfort-food appeal.
Q. How do I ensure the rice cooks perfectly in this casserole?
To ensure fluffy rice, evenly distribute the uncooked rice in the first layer of the dish, then add adequate liquid by using both the canned tomato juices and an extra cup of water poured gently around the edges. Cover tightly with foil for the first 60 minutes to trap steam and fully cook the rice.
Q. How can I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy or mushy?
For best texture, be careful not to add excess water, and layer the ingredients as described—the rice first, followed by corn (to absorb moisture), then peppers, onions, and beef. Baking covered for the majority of the time ensures moistness, while removing the foil for the last 15–20 minutes allows cheese to brown and excess moisture to evaporate.
Q. What is the calorie and macronutrient breakdown per serving?
Each serving contains about 480 kcal, with 38g of carbohydrates (32% of calories), 26g of protein (22%), and 24g of fat (46%). This balance makes it a protein-rich and filling main dish for family dinners or gatherings.
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