I first made this casserole during a particularly tight month when our grocery budget was stretched thin. What started as a necessity quickly became a family favorite that my kids now request at least twice a month.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Adds satisfying protein and rich flavor foundation for the dish
- Olive oil: Helps brown the beef perfectly
- Onion and garlic: Create an aromatic base
- Potatoes: Slice them thin for faster cooking and better texture
- Cheddar cheese: Creates that irresistible golden cheesy topping
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty depth that complements the beef
- Italian seasoning: Blend of herbs that infuses the dish with flavor
- Paprika: Adds subtle smoky notes and beautiful color
- Beef broth: Moistens the potatoes and creates steam for tender results
- Milk: Optional but adds wonderful creaminess to the final dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. This temperature is ideal for cooking the potatoes through while creating a beautiful golden crust on top. Take a moment to thoroughly grease your 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking using either cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil.
- Brown the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers slightly. Add the ground beef breaking it apart with a wooden spoon into small crumbles. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until no pink remains and the meat has developed some browned edges. This browning creates deep flavor compounds that make the dish more satisfying. If there is excess fat in the pan more than a tablespoon drain it off to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Add Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic directly to the browned beef in the skillet. Continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes stirring occasionally. Watch carefully as the onions should become translucent and soft but the garlic should not brown or it will become bitter. This step builds the flavor foundation for the entire dish.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Transfer the cooked beef mixture to your prepared baking dish spreading it in an even layer. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in overlapping rows on top of the beef mixture. The thin slices are crucial as they will cook more quickly and evenly. Season the potatoes thoroughly with salt pepper Italian seasoning and paprika making sure to distribute the seasoning evenly for consistent flavor.
- Add Cheese and Liquid:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the entire casserole leaving no bare spots. The combination of these two cheeses creates a perfect balance of melty texture and flavor. Pour the beef broth carefully around the edges of the dish without disturbing the cheese too much. If using milk drizzle it over the top for added richness and to help the potatoes become tender.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil which traps steam to help cook the potatoes. Bake covered for exactly 30 minutes then remove the foil and continue baking for 15 to 20 minutes more. This final uncovered baking creates the beautiful golden cheese crust while ensuring the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
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