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#### Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Then, peel and cube the **russet potatoes**. Place them in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
#### Step 2: Make the Meat Mixture
While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the **ground beef**. Cook the meat, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Once the meat is fully cooked, add the **diced onion** and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the **minced garlic** and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Stir in the **tomato sauce**, **oregano**, **thyme**, **red pepper flakes** (if using), and a pinch of **salt and pepper**. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
#### Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
Return the cooked potatoes to the pot and mash them with a potato masher or fork. Add the **butter** and **milk**, then continue mashing until the potatoes are creamy and smooth. Stir in the **sour cream** for extra richness and flavor. Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
#### Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a large baking dish (9×13 inches works well), spread a layer of the mashed potatoes on the bottom. Then, spoon the cooked **meat mixture** over the top of the mashed potatoes, spreading it evenly. Finally, sprinkle the **shredded cheddar cheese** over the meat layer, covering it completely.
#### Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for **20-25 minutes**. After the casserole is heated through, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional **10-15 minutes** until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
#### Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with **chopped green onions** for a fresh, flavorful touch. Slice into squares, serve, and enjoy the hearty, cheesy goodness.
### Why You’ll Love Family-Favorite Baked Potato and Meat Casserole:
1. **Hearty and Filling**: This casserole is a complete meal in one dish. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, savory meat, and melted cheese creates a hearty, filling meal that’s perfect for satisfying even the biggest appetites.
2. **Comfort Food at Its Best**: This dish has all the comforting qualities of a classic baked potato, but with the added flavors of seasoned ground meat and melted cheese. It’s the ultimate cozy, homey meal that will make everyone feel warm and content.
3. **Easy to Make**: With only a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole is incredibly easy to make. It doesn’t require any complicated techniques, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family dinners.
4. **Customizable**: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For example, use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the nutritional value. You can also swap the cheese for a dairy-free variety to make it lactose-free.
5. **Leftovers Galore**: This casserole makes great leftovers! It can be stored in the fridge for several days and reheated for a quick, satisfying meal. The flavors often get even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping or planning ahead.
6. **Crowd-Pleaser**: Whether you’re serving a small family or hosting a gathering, this casserole is sure to please. It’s the kind of dish that everyone can dig into, and it’s perfect for feeding a crowd without much effort.
### Tips for Success:
– **Don’t Overmix the Mashed Potatoes**: When mashing the potatoes, be careful not to overmix them, as this can make them gluey. Just mash until they’re creamy and smooth, and stir in the butter and milk gently.
– **Layering is Key**: When assembling the casserole, be sure to evenly layer the mashed potatoes, meat mixture, and cheese for the best balance of flavors in each bite.
– **Make It Ahead of Time**: You can prepare this casserole in advance by assembling it the night before and then baking it the next day. Just cover it with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
– **Add Toppings**: For an extra touch, you can top the casserole with **crispy fried onions** or a sprinkle of **fresh parsley** before serving for added flavor and texture.
– **Make It Spicy**: If you like a little heat, add **chopped jalapeños** or a dash of **hot sauce** to the meat mixture.
### Conclusion:
**Family-Favorite Baked Potato and Meat Casserole** is the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and ease. With its creamy mashed potatoes, savory meat filling, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table and leaves them full and satisfied. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special family meal, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s delicious, versatile, and guaranteed to be a hit with your loved ones every time!
