Hands down, the best dish for for potlucks and busy nights!

Cheesy Potato Casserole with ground beef is one of those comforting dishes that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy evenings at home. Growing up in the Midwest, casseroles were a staple in our household, and this one was always a favorite. It's hearty, cheesy, and the perfect way to use up some pantry staples. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to bring to a potluck, this casserole is sure to please.

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. If you're feeling indulgent, serve it alongside some warm, crusty bread to soak up all the cheesy goodness. A glass of iced tea or a light beer would complement the flavors nicely.

Servings: 6

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 package (30 oz) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

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

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing until well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the hash brown potatoes, 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese, and the beef mixture. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

For a spicier version, add a can of diced green chilies or some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture. You can also swap out the cheddar for pepper jack cheese for an extra kick. If you're looking to make it a bit healthier, try using ground turkey instead of beef and Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. For a vegetarian option, omit the beef and add a can of drained black beans or some sautéed mushrooms.