🥔 Ingredients
For the Beef Layer
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
For the Potato Layer
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheesy Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1 cup heavy cream (extra richness!)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar for best flavor)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra meltiness)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional but enhances cheese flavor)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, or a blend)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
🔪 Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel (optional) and slice the potatoes into very thin rounds (about ⅛ inch).
- Soak in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Drain and pat dry.
This helps the potatoes cook tender and evenly.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil.
- Add diced onion and sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef and break it apart with a spatula.
- Cook until browned, then add garlic.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano.
- Cook until fragrant and well combined.
- Drain excess grease if necessary.
Set aside.
3. Make the Cheesy Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter.
- Stir in flour and cook 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
- Add salt, pepper, and mustard powder.
- Bring to a gentle simmer until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar (and mozzarella if using).
- Mix until fully melted and creamy.
This sauce is what makes the casserole extra luxurious.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and begin layering:
Layer 1: Potatoes
Spread a layer of potatoes across the bottom.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Layer 2: Ground Beef
Add half of the cooked beef mixture.
Layer 3: Cheese Sauce
Pour ⅓ of the cheese sauce over the beef and potatoes.
Repeat the layers until all potatoes and beef are used.
Finish with the remaining cheese sauce spread evenly over the top.
5. Add the Final Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the top with the extra shredded cheese.
6. Bake
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 60 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 20–25 minutes, or until:
- Potatoes are tender
- Top is golden
- Cheese is bubbling beautifully
Let rest 10 minutes before serving so it slices neatly.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad
- Serve with steamed veggies
- Add hot sauce for extra flavor
- Top with chopped parsley or green onions
📦 Storage
- Refrigerate: 3–4 days, covered
- Freeze: Up to 2 months (wrap tightly)
- Reheat: Oven at 350°F until warm OR microwave portions