If you're looking for a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table, this Homestyle Potato Crispy Bake is just the ticket. With layers of savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and crispy topped potatoes, it's a full meal in one dish that hits all the right notes for a cozy family dinner.
The star of this dish is the humble russet potatoes, which when shredded, create a crispy, irresistible topping. The ground beef provides the hearty, protein-rich base, while onions and garlic add depth and flavor. Cheddar cheese brings a sharp, creamy element that complements the beef. Cream of mushroom soup and sour cream combine to form a rich, savory sauce, thinned to just the right consistency with a little milk. A touch of butter helps to sauté the onions and garlic. For seasoning, a sprinkle of salt and pepper goes a long way, while dried thyme and paprika bring out the dish's rustic flavors.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed green beans to add a fresh, vibrant touch to your meal. Consider a side of crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of the creamy, savory sauce.
First, you'll need to get your oven preheated to 375°F. A well-preheated oven is key to achieving that perfect crispy potato topping. While the oven is warming up, grab your skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Once it's melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring them around until they turn translucent and fragrant—this generally takes about 3-5 minutes.
Next, introduce the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks. You want all the pink to disappear, leaving you with nicely browned beef. Don't forget to drain any excess fat; we want flavor, not grease.
In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. Stir in the thyme, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper to give it a nice, even flavor. Now, combine the beef mixture with this creamy concoction, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Spread this mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish, creating an even layer. Then, take your shredded potatoes and distribute them evenly over the top. This is where the magic happens, as they will crisp up beautifully in the oven. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes, because who doesn't love a cheesy topping?
Place the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the potatoes are golden-brown and crispy. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
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