Idaho Potato Shell Taco Pie

¼ cup butter
⅔ cup milk
1 pkg. taco seasoning mix (1¼ oz.)
2½ cups mashed potato flakes
1 lb. ground beef
½ cup chopped onion
½ cup barbecue sauce
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 medium tomato, chopped
1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded (4oz.)
sour cream, optional

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a medium sauce pan, melt butter.

Add milk and 2 Tbsps. of taco seasoning mix. Remove from heat and stir in potato flakes until incorporated. Press mixture over bottom of 10" pan.

2. In a medium skillet, cook beef and onions until beef is browned and onions are tender. Drain off fat and stir in remaining taco mix and barbecue sauce. Cook while stirring until bubbly, then pour into prepared potato crust.

3. Bake uncovered in oven for 30-35 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes, and then top with cheddar cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes. Cut into squares and serve with sour cream.

Recipe: Culinary Operations Manager Robert Landolphi, University of Connecticut, Storrs. Photo: The Idaho Potato Commission