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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
1. **Cook the meat:** In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. **Sauté the onions and garlic:** Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Stir to combine, and set the meat mixture aside.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Potato Layer
1. **Slice the potatoes:** While the meat is cooking, peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly in the casserole.
2. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent the casserole from sticking.
#### Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
1. **Layer the potatoes:** Place a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the greased baking dish. You don’t need to overlap the slices too much, just cover the bottom of the dish as evenly as possible.
2. **Add the meat mixture:** Spoon half of the cooked meat mixture over the layer of potatoes, spreading it out evenly.
3. **Add more potatoes:** Add another layer of sliced potatoes on top of the meat, pressing them down gently.
4. **Combine the sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream (or heavy cream) until smooth. Pour this mixture over the potatoes and meat layers, spreading it out evenly.
5. **Top with cheese:** Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole, covering it evenly.
#### Step 4: Bake the Casserole
1. **Cover and bake:** Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes at 375°F (190°C). The foil will help the potatoes cook through and prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
2. **Uncover and bake again:** After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake the casserole for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. **Check for doneness:** You can test the potatoes for doneness by poking them with a fork; they should be soft and easily pierced.
#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
1. **Let it cool:** Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving, as it will be very hot right out of the oven.
2. **Garnish (optional):** Garnish the casserole with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.
3. **Serve:** Serve the casserole with a side of salad, steamed vegetables, or some warm bread for a complete and hearty meal.
### Tips and Variations:
– **Vegetable Add-ins:** You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
– **Different Meats:** Swap out ground beef for turkey, chicken, or sausage, depending on your preferences or dietary needs.
– **Cheese Options:** Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or Gouda for a unique twist. You can even add a bit of parmesan cheese on top for a crispy, golden finish.
– **Crispy Topping:** For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the cheese before baking. This will create a delicious contrast to the soft potatoes.
– **Spicy Kick:** Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy version of this casserole.
### Healthier Alternatives:
– **Lean Meat:** Use lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce the fat content of the casserole.
– **Low-Fat Dairy:** Substitute sour cream or cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
– **Sweet Potatoes:** For a twist on the classic, try using sweet potatoes instead of russets for a sweeter, nutrient-packed alternative.
### Final Thoughts:
This Meat & Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food—hearty, cheesy, and satisfying with minimal effort. It’s a great choice for busy families or anyone looking for a filling meal that comes together easily. The layers of savory meat, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce make every bite feel like a warm hug, while the cheese on top adds that irresistible melty goodness. Whether served on its own or as part of a larger meal, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy!
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