Meat & Potato Casserole

My grandmother believe that the kitchen was a chemistry lab.  In her lab, she invented this dish and we love it!  Meat and potato casserole has become a family favorite. It's perfect for so many things! Busy week nights, picky toddlers, budget stretcher, unexpected guests, taking to a friend who is going through a hard time.... it's perfect for all those things.
It's potatoes, ground beef, and cheddar.  That's all. Here's the recipe:

1. Peel and cut the potatoes into bite size chunks. Boil potatoes until soft.
2. Sprinkle ground beef with salt and pepper. Brown ground beef.
3. Pour cooked potatoes into casserole dish. Pour cooked ground beef over top.
4. Cover the top with lots of shredded cheddar cheese (I like sharp but my mom uses mild).
5. Bake in oven on 350 degrees. Mostly you are just melting the cheese.
6. Serve hot. Ketchup optional.

Ketchup:

My husband and many other casserole newbies have balked at the idea of putting ketchup on this dish, but it's what we do in my family and it's delicious! So, if you're feeling adventurous, put some ketchup on top and you'll thank me.

Add-Ins:

As many have pointed out over the years, and I'm sure you're thinking it to, there are lots of things you could add to this recipe. Peppers? Onions? Vegetables? Go for it! Remember, the kitchen is a chemistry lab! 

Happy Cooking Y'all!