Description
Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole
Cheesy and delicious! This casserole brings together the best parts of a cheeseburger with crispy fries and a generous topping of cheese.
Ingredients:
Ground beef, frozen fries
Cheddar cheese, ketchup
Salt, pepper, garlic powder
Steps:
Brown ground beef with seasonings.
Layer fries, beef, and cheese in a dish.
Bake, then top with ketchup.
#CheesyGoodness
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
3. Season the beef with 1 teaspoon each of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir in 1/2 cup of ketchup and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Arrange a 28-ounce bag of frozen French fries in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Spread the seasoned ground beef mixture evenly over the layer of fries.
6. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the fries are crispy and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own. For a classic diner feel, serve it with extra ketchup, mustard, and pickle spears on the side. A simple green salad or steamed broccoli helps balance the richness. It’s perfect for game day, potlucks, or a comforting family dinner.
How-to Summary
Brown seasoned ground beef with ketchup. In a baking dish, layer frozen fries, the beef mixture, and shredded cheese. Bake at 375°F until golden and bubbly for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal that combines two favorite foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries?
Yes, but for best results, slice russet potatoes into thin sticks, toss with oil, and partially bake them before assembling to ensure they cook through and get crispy.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What other cheeses work well?
American cheese delivers classic burger flavor. A Monterey Jack and cheddar blend or pepper jack also works wonderfully for extra meltiness or a slight kick.
Can I add other burger toppings?
Absolutely! Consider mixing in diced onions with the beef, or adding layers of pickles, diced tomatoes, or cooked bacon before the cheese.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness, as the microwave will make the fries soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid skipping the step of draining the fat from the cooked ground beef, as this can make the final dish greasy. Do not thaw the frozen fries before assembling, as they will become mushy. Ensure your oven is fully preheated to guarantee the fries crisp up properly. Finally, resist the urge to overbake, as the cheese can separate and become oily.
Conclusion
This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is the ultimate comfort food hybrid, delivering all the savory satisfaction of a cheeseburger with the crispy, carb-y joy of fries in one easy dish. It’s incredibly versatile, forgiving for weeknights, and guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults. Give this simple recipe a try for a deliciously fun twist on two classic favorites.
