Ground Beef and Potato Bake

Ground Beef and Potato Bake:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
   • Season with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
4. Assemble the Bake:
   • Lightly grease a baking dish (9×13 inches works well).
   • Layer half of the potato slices on the bottom of the dish.
   • Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.
   • Pour half of the soup mixture on top.
   • Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and soup mixture.
   • Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake:
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
   • Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella (if using), and bake for another 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your warm and hearty Ground Beef and Potato Bake! 😊