Beefy Hash Brown Bake

Why I Love This Recipe
This comes from Taste of Home's Quick Cooking (May/June 2001).
This is very good!
Ingredients You'll Need
4 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 pound ground beef
1 cup water
1 envelope brown gravy mix (we used Au Jus)
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
1 can (2.8 ounces) French-fried onions, divided (we just bought a small onion, chopped it up)
1 cup (4 ounces) 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 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 boil; cook & stir for 2 minutes.
Add vegetables; cook & 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.