Steak and Spinach Hashbrown Bake

1.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.

2.In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.

3.Add the ground sirloin to the skillet with the onions. Break the meat apart with a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside.

4.In another large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted and most moisture has evaporated, about 4-5 minutes. Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Remove from heat.

5.Prepare the brown gravy mix according to package instructions, using 2 cups of water. Whisk the gravy until smooth and slightly thickened, then remove from heat.

6.Spread half of the thawed hashbrowns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing gently to form a compact layer.

7.Layer the cooked ground sirloin and onion mixture evenly over the hashbrowns.

8.Next, spread the sautéed spinach evenly over the meat layer.

9.Pour the prepared brown gravy evenly over the spinach layer, ensuring it covers the surface well.

10.Top with the remaining hashbrowns, pressing gently to compact the layer. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

11.Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

12.Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top layer of hashbrowns is golden brown and crispy and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

13.Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set for easier slicing.

14.Serve warm as a comforting main dish, optionally accompanied by a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.