**Family-Favorite Baked Potato and Meat Casserole: A Hearty and Delicious Meal for All**
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can beat a hearty casserole that combines the best of savory meats, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese. A **Family-Favorite Baked Potato and Meat Casserole** is the ultimate go-to dish for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or potlucks. This one-dish wonder is filling, flavorful, and easy to make, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a meal that will satisfy a hungry crowd or a comforting dish to enjoy at home, this casserole is the perfect solution.
Packed with tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef (or any meat of your choice), and a rich, cheesy topping, this casserole is a complete meal in itself. Let’s dive into the recipe and show you how to make this delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
### Ingredients:
– 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or sausage)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
– Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)
### Directions:
#### 1. **Prepare the Potatoes:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
– In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the sliced potatoes for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are slightly tender but still firm. You don’t want them fully cooked at this stage because they will continue cooking in the oven.
– Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
#### 2. **Cook the Meat Filling:**
– While the potatoes are boiling, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
– Add the ground beef (or other meat of your choice) to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
– Season the meat with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Stir in the sour cream and milk, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the mixture to thicken slightly. Remove from heat.
#### 3. **Assemble the Casserole:**
– Layer the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping each slice. You want to form a solid layer of potatoes to act as the base.
– Spread half of the cooked meat mixture evenly over the potatoes, making sure it covers them well.
– Add another layer of potatoes on top of the meat mixture, followed by the remaining meat mixture. Finish by topping it with the remaining sliced potatoes.
– Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
#### 4. **Bake the Casserole:**
– Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. This will allow the potatoes to cook through and the flavors to meld together.
– After 25-30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top and the potatoes are fully cooked.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
– Serve the casserole as a main dish with a side of steamed vegetables, a crisp salad, or some warm crusty bread for a complete meal.
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