Poor Man’s Casserole

### **Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Ground Beef**:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the meat aside.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables**:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for another 5 minutes until heated through. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using) for extra flavor.

3. **Prepare the Casserole**:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large casserole dish, layer the sliced potatoes on the bottom, covering the entire base of the dish. This will create the hearty base of the casserole.

4. **Combine the Meat and Soup**:
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked ground beef with the sautéed vegetables and the can of cream of mushroom soup. Add the milk and stir until the mixture is creamy and well combined.

5. **Assemble the Casserole**:
Pour the meat and vegetable mixture evenly over the potatoes in the casserole dish. Spread it out to cover all the potatoes.

6. **Top with Cheese**:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will melt into a gooey, golden layer as it bakes.

7. **Bake the Casserole**:
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40-45 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

8. **Serve**:
Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice it up and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal!

### **Why Poor Man’s Casserole is a Must-Try:**

– **Budget-Friendly**: The ingredients for Poor Man’s Casserole are inexpensive and easy to find. This dish is perfect for families on a budget, college students, or anyone looking to make the most of their grocery dollars.
– **Hearty and Filling**: With its combination of ground meat, potatoes, vegetables, and cheese, this casserole is a complete meal that will fill you up and leave you satisfied.
– **Easy to Make**: Poor Man’s Casserole is a one-dish wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax. The steps are straightforward, making it a perfect weeknight dinner for busy families.
– **Customizable**: You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have in your kitchen. Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, or use whatever vegetables you prefer or have on hand. You can also change the type of soup or cheese to suit your tastes.
– **Great for Leftovers**: This casserole is even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner the following day. It also freezes well, so you can make it ahead and store it for future meals.

### **Pro Tips for the Best Poor Man’s Casserole:**

– **Use Fresh Potatoes**: If you prefer, you can use fresh potatoes instead of frozen mixed vegetables. Simply slice them thinly and layer them in the casserole for a fresher, more homemade texture.
– **Add More Veggies**: To make this dish even more nutritious, feel free to add extra veggies. You can use broccoli, bell peppers, or even spinach in place of or alongside the mixed vegetables.
– **Make it Spicy**: If you like a little heat, add some chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy twist.
– **Layer for Extra Flavor**: For even more depth of flavor, you can layer the casserole with a little bit of grated cheese between the meat and potato layers. This will add extra cheesy goodness throughout the dish.

### **Final Thoughts:**

*Poor Man’s Casserole* is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious, comforting meal. Its hearty flavors, easy prep, and low cost make it a must-try for anyone looking for a filling and satisfying dinner that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing for a potluck, or just want a cozy meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. So, gather your ingredients, whip up this classic comfort food, and enjoy a dish that’s both tasty and budget-friendly!