Scalloped Potatoes And Ground Beef

### Instructions:

#### 1. Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture:
Start by cooking the ground beef. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat.

Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, and add Worcestershire sauce if desired. Stir in the beef broth and allow it to simmer for about 5-10 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly. Set the beef mixture aside.

#### 2. Prepare the Scalloped Potatoes:
For the scalloped potatoes, peel and thinly slice your potatoes. A mandoline slicer can help ensure even, thin slices, which will cook more evenly in the casserole.

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, if using.

If you want an extra cheesy version, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. This adds a nice richness to the sauce, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.

#### 3. Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, overlapping them slightly. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes, making sure they’re evenly coated. Then, spoon half of the ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes.

Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and beef mixture.

#### 4. Bake:
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 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 and bubbly.

#### 5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice.

Serve your scalloped potatoes and ground beef casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine or a cold beer, making it the perfect comfort food to enjoy with friends and family.

### Tips and Variations:
– **Cheese Options**: For a different twist, try using different types of cheese, like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
– **Vegetable Add-ins**: You can add vegetables such as spinach, peas, or even corn to the ground beef layer for extra texture and nutrition.
– **Make-Ahead Option**: This dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil and bake it according to the instructions when you’re ready to serve.

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
– **Comforting and Filling**: With tender potatoes, savory beef, and creamy cheese, this dish is the ultimate comfort food.
– **One-Pan Meal**: Everything comes together in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.
– **Versatile**: You can customize the dish to suit your taste, from adding more cheese to incorporating different vegetables.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night at home, **scalloped potatoes and ground beef** will bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. The layers of creamy potatoes, seasoned beef, and rich sauce come together in a perfect harmony that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.