Potato and Ground Beef Bake

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Slice the Potatoes: Thinly slice the potatoes using a mandoline or a sharp knife to ensure even cooking.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Remove from heat.

3. Make the Sauce

1. Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add Flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste and turns golden brown.
3. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the beef broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble the Bake

1. Layer the Potatoes: Spread half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
2. Add Beef Mixture: Spoon the ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
4. Repeat Layers: Add the remaining sliced potatoes in an even layer over the cheese.
5. Pour Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the top layer of potatoes.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

5. Bake the Dish

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
2. Uncover and Bake: 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

1. Cool Slightly: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
2. Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Tips and Variations

• Meat Variations: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetable Additions: Add layers of sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra veggies.
• Cheese Options: Use a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Potato and Ground Beef Bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. A side of crusty bread is also a great addition to soak up the delicious sauce.