This hearty casserole combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Baked to golden perfection, it delivers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors, with crispy edges and a gooey, cheesy center. Ideal for a cozy meal, this dish is easy to prepare and full of comfort-food goodness.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Add milk and cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
- Melt the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and the sauce turns creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, cooked beef mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking: Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the top turns golden brown and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this cheesy, indulgent dish with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also customize it by adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or substituting different cheeses for a unique twist.
Would you like more customization ideas or side dish recommendations for this recipe? 😊