Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Set aside.
- Prepare the potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes. Slice them thinly, about 1/8-inch thick.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer. Spread half of the ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the beef. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, and cheese sauce.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy your delicious baked potato and ground beef casserole!