Here's an easy recipe that's great for small budgets.

1 lb. ground beef
2 c. instant (or fresh) mashed potatoes
1 pkg. brown gravy mix prepared as directed
1 clove garlic
salt and pepper
3 c. mixed vegtables (preferrably corn, green beans, lima beans, and carrots :)
1 pkg. shredded chedder cheese

Preheat oven to 425 degrees
Brown meat and drain off excess fat. Add garlic.
Prepare gravy and potatoes as directed and set aside.
Mix browned meat with garlic, vegtables, and gravy in a large mixing bowl. Season to taste.
Pour mixture into nonstick casserole dish.
Layer potatoes on top of meat mixture.
Layer shredded cheese on top of potatoes (I use the whole bag!)
Place in oven for 25 minutes.
Serves 6 people! I make this for my husband and I and have two days worth of leftovers.

I prefer real mashed potatoes with cheese, sour cream, and butter mixed in them, but instant works just fine too!