Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper.
- Drain any excess grease and set aside.
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spread half of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes, followed by a layer of mixed vegetables (if using).
- Pour half of the creamy sauce over the layers and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ground beef, sauce, and cheese.
5. Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.