Believe me, the cheese is what makes this recipe special.

This cheesy hamburger potato casserole is a comforting dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners at home. It's a staple in many Midwestern households, combining hearty ingredients that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The creamy, cheesy texture makes it a favorite for both kids and adults, and it's perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something warm and filling.

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. You might also consider serving it with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious cheesy sauce. For a little extra indulgence, a dollop of sour cream on top can add a nice tangy contrast.

Servings: 6

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups peeled and thinly sliced potatoes
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper, mixing well.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.

Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese.

Pour the soup and milk mixture evenly over the top.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and use a low-fat cheese. If you have picky eaters, consider adding some hidden veggies like finely chopped carrots or bell peppers to the beef mixture. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken if that's more to your family's taste.