Cheesy Hash Brown Bake

Submitted by D.F. of Canton, Ohio

Ingredients:

• 1 package (1-1/4 lb.) refrigerated hash brown potatoes
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 14.5 oz. can seasoned tomatoes, diced & undrained
• 4 c. shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 lb. bacon, cooked & crumbled

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°.
2. Lightly spray 13x9x2″ baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
3. Cook potatoes according to package directions, set aside.
4. Combine beef, onion and garlic in Dutch Oven.
5. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until beef is browned and crumbly and the onion is softened, 8 to 10 minutes; drain.
6. Add tomatoes to beef mixture.
7. Cook, stirring frequently until mixture is bubbly and most of the juice is absorbed, 8 to 10 minutes.
8. Spread cooked potatoes in the prepared pan.
9. Spread beef mixture evenly over top of potatoes.
10. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and top with bacon.
11. Cover with aluminum foil and bake until heated through and the cheese is melted, 40 to 45 minutes.