### **Cheesy Ground Beef and Potato Casserole Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
– ½ cup sour cream
– ½ cup milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tsp paprika
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
#### **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
2. **Cook the Ground Beef:**
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease, then add the chopped onion and garlic to the beef. Continue to cook until the onion is soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. **Prepare the Sauce:**
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until smooth and well combined.
4. **Assemble the Casserole:**
Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Spoon half of the soup mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Then, add the cooked ground beef and onion mixture over the cheese layer. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, soup mixture, and another cup of shredded cheese on top.
5. **Bake:**
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. **Garnish and Serve:**
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
### **Serving Suggestions:**
This cheesy ground beef and potato casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. It’s also a comforting meal on its own, packed with protein and carbs, perfect for a hearty family dinner.
### **Recipe Tips:**
– **Cheese:** Feel free to use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack for extra flavor.
– **Potatoes:** Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best in this dish as they hold their shape well during baking.
– **Meat:** You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
– **Vegetables:** Add in some vegetables like chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture to make it a bit heartier.
### **FAQs:**
**Can I make this casserole ahead of time?**
– Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you’re ready.
**Can I freeze the casserole?**
– Absolutely. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as instructed.
**Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?**
– Yes, sweet potatoes would work well and offer a slightly sweeter contrast to the savory beef and cheese.
**How can I make this dish gluten-free?**
– Ensure that your canned soup is gluten-free, or make your own creamy base using gluten-free flour.
**What other cheeses can I use?**
– Cheddar works best, but you can mix it up with Gruyère, Swiss, or even a spicy cheese like pepper jack for more kick.
Enjoy this comforting, cheesy casserole that’s sure to be a family favorite!