1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil or butter.
Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened (3–4 minutes).
Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Prepare the sauce:
In a bowl, mix cream soup, sour cream, milk, half of the cheddar cheese, and optional paprika or thyme.
4. Assemble the casserole:
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.
Spread half the beef mixture over the potatoes.
Pour half of the creamy sauce over the beef.
Repeat with remaining potatoes, beef, and sauce.
5. Top with cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top.
6. Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish & Serve:
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Tips:
Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin potato slices.
Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Swap sour cream for cream cheese for a tangier flavor.
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