Cooking : Beefy Hash Brown Bake

Ingredients
4 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 pound ground beef
1 cup water
1 (.75 ounce) packet dry brown gravy mix
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
1 (2.8 ounce) can French-fried onions, divided
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided

Directions
In a bowl, combine the potatoes, oil and pepper. Press into a greased 8-in. square baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are thawed and set.
Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, cook the beef until no longer pink; drain. Stir in water, gravy mix and garlic salt. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Add vegetables; cook and stir for 5 minutes. Stir in half of the onions and cheese.
Pour over potatoes. Bake for 5-10 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining onions and cheese; bake 5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.