Hamburger and Potato Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 2.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, washed (about 8 to 9 potatoes).
02 - 2 pounds lean ground beef.
03 - 1 cup finely diced sweet yellow onion.
04 - 1 tablespoon minced garlic.
05 - 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (Great Value brand or any brand of choice).
06 - 1 cup half and half.
07 - 1 tablespoon onion powder.
08 - 1½ teaspoons kosher salt.
09 - 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper.
10 - 3 cups freshly shredded Colby jack cheese (divided into ¾ cup, ¾ cup, and 1½ cups).

# Instructions:

01 - Slice the potatoes into ⅛-inch thick slices and place them in water to prevent browning while preparing the other ingredients.
02 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
03 - In a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the lean ground beef, onions, and garlic. Break up the beef while cooking, and drain any excess oil.
04 - In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, half and half, onion powder, kosher salt, and pepper.
05 - Drain the water from the potatoes and start layering the casserole. Place ⅓ of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish, followed by ⅓ of the ground beef, ¾ cup of shredded cheese, and ⅓ of the soup mixture.
06 - Repeat the layering process two more times, ensuring the final layer is topped with 1½ cups of shredded cheese.
07 - Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
08 - Allow the casserole to rest for 15 minutes before serving as it will be very hot.

# Notes:

01 - A hearty and comforting casserole with layers of sliced potatoes, ground beef, cheese, and a creamy mushroom soup sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.