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1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3 minutes).
- Season with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form.
- Cook until the sauce thickens, then stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer half of the potato slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the top.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese on top.
5. Bake:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve:
Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley, if desired, and enjoy!
✨ Tips for Success:
- Slice Potatoes Thinly: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices that cook evenly.
- Cook the Sauce Slowly: To avoid lumps, whisk constantly while adding the milk.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
Variations:
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
- Bacon Lovers: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits between the layers for extra flavor.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Cool the casserole completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
This Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Bake is a delicious way to bring everyone together at the dinner table. It’s cozy, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying.
What’s your favorite way to customize this recipe? Share your tips in the comments! 🥘
