Ingredients

4 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed3 tablespoons vegetable oil1/8 teaspoon pepper1 pound ground beef1 envelope brown gravy mix1 cup water1 package (10 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables, thawed1/2 teaspoon garlic powder1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided1 can (2.8 ounces) french-fried onions, divided

Preparation

In a bowl, combine hash browns, oil and pepper. Press onto the bottom and 1 in up the sides of an ungreased 9-in. square baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, in a skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in gravy mix and water. Add vegetables and garlic powder. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup cheese and half of the onions. Spoon into the potato shell. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 15 minutes. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese and onions. Bake 5 minutes longer.