Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Here’s a detailed step-by-step recipe for Ground Beef Potato Casserole with clear directions:

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Ground Beef Potato Casserole

Ingredients (serves 4–6)

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)

• 1 cup milk

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)

• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for creamier texture)

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. You can slice them about 1/8 inch thick for even cooking.

3. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.

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Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef.

2. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink.

3. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft.

4. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme or Italian seasoning if using.

5. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste (this is called a roux).

3. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

4. Bring to a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens.

5. Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese and, if using, sour cream. Mix until smooth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the dish.

3. Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes.

4. Pour half of the creamy sauce on top of the beef layer.

5. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce.

6. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.

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Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.

2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

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Step 6: Serve

1. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

2. Slice and serve warm.

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This dish can be paired with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a full meal.