Here is the recipe for Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole:
**Ingredients:**
For the hamburger mixture:
* 1 lb ground beef
* 1 onion, diced
* 2 cloves of garlic, minced
* 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* Salt and pepper, to taste
For the potato layer:
* 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
* 2 tablespoons butter
For the cheese layer:
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the casserole:
* 1 cup milk
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (additional)
* 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
**Optional ingredients for variations:**
* Bells peppers, diced
* Mushrooms, sliced
* Bacon bits
* Diced tomatoes
* Green chilies
* Greek yogurt instead of milk
* Different types of cheese (e.g., Monterey Jack, Colby, or Provolone)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces, until it's fully browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots and cook until they're tender. Set the mixture aside.
5. In a separate saucepan, boil the sliced potatoes in salted water until they're slightly tender. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
6. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of the potato slices. Dot the top of the potatoes with butter.
7. Spread the hamburger mixture over the potatoes.
8. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the hamburger mixture.
9. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and melted butter. Pour the mixture over the cheese layer.
10. Top the casserole with additional shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
11. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* To make a more flavorful casserole, sauté the onions and garlic before adding the ground beef. This will caramelize the onions and add a deeper flavor.
* Consider adding other ingredients to the hamburger mixture, such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms, to add texture and flavor.
* Use different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile. For example, Monterey Jack or Colby can add a milder flavor, while Provolone can introduce a richer, creamier taste.
* Substitute Greek yogurt for the milk to add a tangy flavor and increased moisture.
* If you prefer a crispy breadcrumb topping, broil the casserole for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking.
Enjoy your Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole!