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Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot for baking the casserole. - Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. This helps them cook evenly in the casserole. - Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside. - Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream and milk. Stir in the melted butter, salt, and pepper to taste. This creamy mixture will coat the potatoes and meat, creating a rich and flavorful casserole base. - Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray. Start by layering the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Top with half of the cooked meat mixture, spreading it evenly over the potatoes. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the meat, making sure it covers everything. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, meat, and sauce. - Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Serve and Garnish
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, consider adding vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach to the meat mixture. You can also layer them between the potatoes for added flavor and texture.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it the next day when you’re ready to eat!
- Cheese Options: If you love cheese, feel free to mix it up! Try adding mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for different textures and flavors.
- Use Leftover Potatoes: If you have leftover baked or mashed potatoes, you can use them instead of fresh ones—just layer them in the casserole for a quick shortcut.
Why It’s a Family Favorite
This baked potato and meat casserole is the ultimate comfort food, satisfying every craving for creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want to feed your family a filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great recipe to customize based on your family’s tastes—whether they prefer ground turkey, sausage, or even a veggie version with beans or lentils. Whatever variation you choose, this casserole is sure to bring everyone to the table and leave them asking for seconds!
Conclusion
Baked potato and meat casserole is a timeless, easy-to-make meal that will warm hearts and fill bellies. With its creamy layers of potatoes, savory meat, and melted cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your family’s dinner routine. Try it today, and enjoy the delicious comfort of a meal made with love and simple ingredients.
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