Loaded with deliciously seasoned meat and potatoes and topped with gooey melted cheese, it's the ultimate comfort food! Simple, satisfying, and tasty, making is a guaranteed family favorite. This fuss-free casserole is perfect as a main dish, side dish, or breakfast treat.
Peel and slice the potatoes thinly and as close to the same thickness as possible so they cook evenly in the casserole.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and thyme and sauté until the onion is translucent and garlic fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks—season with salt, pepper, bouillon powder, oregano, and paprika.
Drain excess fat from the skillet, then sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture. Stir well to combine, and cook for another minute to toast the flour.
Gradually add the beef broth and milk to the skillet, stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly, forming a gravy-like consistency.
Grease your baking dish with butter (or non-stick spray). Then, arrange half of the sliced potatoes along the bottom, followed by half of the ground beef mixture. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture.
Cover with foil and bake for about 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Uncover the dish, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
Broil the casserole for a few minutes after it has finished baking for a crispy top.
Wait until the casserole is done before adding cheese. Then, bake it uncovered until the cheese is nice and bubbly.
Ground beef for a casserole is better slightly undercooked than over because it will finish cooking in the oven. It shouldn't be pink, but it shouldn't be dry, either.
Let the potato and beef casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking so the sauce thickens, the flavors meld, and you don't burn your tongue.
Please remember that the nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary significantly based on the products used in the recipe.