Improved Ground Beef Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of cheddar cheese soup
• 3 cups frozen potato cubes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for added creaminess)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish or spray with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir in both cans of condensed soups. Add the sour cream, if using, for extra creaminess. Mix in the frozen potato cubes, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, dried thyme or Italian seasoning, and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the beef and potato mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the cheddar for extra flavor and a crispy top.
5. Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

Tips:

• Add Veggies: For added nutrition, consider stirring in a cup of frozen peas or corn along with the potato cubes.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• For a Crunchy Top: If you prefer a crunchy topping, mix 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle it on top of the casserole before the final 10 minutes of baking.

Enjoy your enhanced Ground Beef Casserole—a comforting and flavorful dish with a touch of added richness and depth!