OLD-FASHIONED POTATO-BEEF CASSEROLE

Steps:

• Place the potatoes in a large saucepan with water to cover by 1 inch.
• Add a generous pinch of salt and cook for 15 minutes, or until tender; do not overcook.
• Drain the potatoes and arrange them in a 9 x 9 inch casserole dish.
• While potatoes are cooking, in large skillet, combine the beef and onion and cook together over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion softened, 12-15 minutes.
• Pour off excess fat.
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
• Melt the butter in a medium saucepan and whisk in flour to make a roux.
• Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture bubbles and the flour turns light brown in color.
• Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to stir while cooking over medium heat.
• When the mixture thickens, whisk in the salt and pepper, then stir in the cheese and browned beef.
• Pour the ground beef mixture over the potatoes and bake the casserole for 20 minutes until heated through and bubbling.
• Stir the casserole gently.
• Sprinkle a little more cheddar cheese on top, if desired, and the bread crumbs on top of the casserole and bake until the crumbs are toasted, about 5 minutes longer.