Loaded Baked Potato & Ground Beef Casserole 

Loaded Baked Potato & Ground Beef Casserole 

🌟 Introduction:
Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this Loaded Baked Potato & Ground Beef Casserole. It’s the ultimate hearty dish that layers creamy potatoes, seasoned beef, melty cheese, and crispy bacon into one irresistible bake. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing a make-ahead meal, or hosting a potluck, this casserole promises to satisfy every craving. Think of it as a warm, cheesy hug on a plate!

🥔 Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 6 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

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• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

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• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 cups milk

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled

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• 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the dish)

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Cook the Potatoes:
   Boil the potato cubes in salted water for 10–12 minutes until just fork tender. Drain and set aside.

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3. Prepare the Ground Beef:
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned and fully cooked. Add garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for another minute, then set aside.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   In the same skillet, sprinkle flour over the beef mixture and stir to coat. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until a thick sauce forms. Stir in sour cream and 1/2 cup of shredded cheese. Mix until smooth and melted.

5. Assemble the Casserole:
   Spread half of the cooked potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Spoon half the beef mixture over the top. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes and beef. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top.

6. Bake:
   Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

7. Top with Bacon & Garnish:
   Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and fresh parsley on top before serving.

🍽️ Conclusion:
This Loaded Baked Potato & Ground Beef Casserole is the definition of crowd-pleasing comfort. Rich, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s a meal that leaves everyone full and happy. Serve it on its own or pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced dinner that’s anything but ordinary. Get ready for requests for seconds—and the recipe!