Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Casserole

Cheesy Potato and Ground Beef Casserole

Ingredients:

• For the Potato Layer:
  • 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
• For the Ground Beef Layer:
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes (optional, for added flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
• For the Topping:
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme.
   • Spread the potatoes evenly on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender. Set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the onion is softened.
   • Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. If using, add the diced tomatoes.
   • Pour in the beef broth or water and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   • In a springform pan or a deep baking dish, start by layering half of the roasted potatoes at the bottom.
   • Spread the ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
   • Add the remaining roasted potatoes on top of the ground beef layer.
   • Sprinkle the chopped green onions (if using) over the top potato layer.
4. Add the Cheese and Bake:
   • Combine the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
   • Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly with a golden-brown top.
5. Serve:
   • Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly before slicing and serving.
   • Enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish with a side salad or your favorite vegetables.

Tips:

• For added flavor, you can mix some cooked bacon bits into the potato layers.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the ground beef mixture.

This hearty casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering, combining the comfort of cheesy potatoes with the rich flavor of seasoned ground beef. Enjoy!