Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole: Comfort Food at Its Best

Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is a delightful dish that combines all the best flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting allure of a hearty casserole. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers, as it brings together familiar tastes in a new way. With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy soup, cheese, and crispy French fries, this casserole is comfort food at its finest.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not just delicious; it is also incredibly simple to prepare. If you are looking for a meal that pleases both kids and adults alike, this is a winner. It requires minimal preparation and uses ingredients that are often found in your pantry or freezer. The versatility of this casserole allows you to customize it to your family’s taste preferences, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty, making it a practical choice for meal prep.

How to Make Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 onion, finely diced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard
• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen French fries
• Optional toppings: diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, lettuce, or extra cheese for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onions until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, ketchup, and mustard until smooth.
5. Add the soup mixture to the skillet with the cooked beef, stirring until well mixed.
6. Spread the beef mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
8. Arrange the frozen French fries evenly on top of the cheese layer.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the fries are golden and crispy.
10. For a cheesy finish, sprinkle additional cheese on top and bake for another 5 minutes or until melted.
11. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
12. Garnish with optional toppings like diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, or lettuce.

How to Serve Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole

This casserole is best served hot from the oven. Cut it into generous squares and place them on plates. You can serve it with a side salad for added freshness or keep it simple and enjoy it on its own. If your family enjoys toppings, set out bowls of diced pickles, chopped lettuce, and tomatoes so everyone can customize their own serving. A drizzle of extra ketchup or mustard on the side can also enhance the flavor.

How to Store Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Make sure to wrap it well in freezer-safe packaging to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Tips to Make Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole

• Customize the Meat: Ground beef is a classic choice, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.
• Spice it Up: For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Cheese Variety: While cheddar cheese is delicious, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack cheese can add different flavors.
• Make it Fresh: Adding in veggies like diced bell peppers or mushrooms can increase the nutrition of the dish and add more flavor.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you are ready to bake it.

Variations

• Mexican Twist: Add taco seasoning to the ground beef and replace the cheddar cheese with a Mexican blend. Top with salsa and guacamole for a fun twist.
• Breakfast Casserole: Substitute breakfast sausage for the ground beef, add scrambled eggs, and use hash browns instead of French fries for a hearty breakfast option.
• Vegetarian Version: Use a mix of beans or lentils and chopped vegetables instead of meat, paired with the same delicious casserole ingredients.
• Italian Style: Mix Italian seasoning into the ground beef and swap the ketchup for marinara sauce. Top with mozzarella cheese for a cheesy Italian bake.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?

A: Yes, you can use fresh fries. Just make sure they are thinly sliced and partially cooked to help achieve that crispy texture in the casserole.

Q: How long can I freeze the casserole for?

A: The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.

Q: What are some good sides to serve with this casserole?

A: A simple side salad or coleslaw works well. You could also serve it with garlic bread or a fresh fruit salad for a sweet contrast.

This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Its comforting flavors and straightforward preparation make it a meal that everyone will enjoy. With endless possibilities for customization, you can make it fit any taste preference or occasion. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the dinner table!