Get ready for the ultimate crowd-pleasing meal that combines the best of a classic cheeseburger with the irresistible crunch of French fries. This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is a game-night favorite that transforms familiar flavors into one epic, easy-to-make dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
US Measurements
- 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
Metric Measurements
- 450g ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
- 5g garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 100g cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can (298g) cream of mushroom soup
- 120ml milk
- 60ml ketchup
- 60ml yellow mustard
- 907g frozen French fries
Optional Toppings
- Diced pickles
- Chopped tomatoes
- Shredded lettuce
- Extra cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles.
- Add finely diced onions to the beef and cook until the onions are translucent and the beef is fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the beef mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Drain any excess fat.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, ketchup, and yellow mustard until well combined.
- Add the sauce mixture to the cooked beef and stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Arrange the frozen French fries in a single layer on top of the cheese and beef.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the French fries are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with optional toppings like diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, or extra cheese.
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 6-8
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-60 minutes
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef
- Ensure French fries are spread in a single layer for maximum crispiness
- Let the casserole rest before serving to allow sauce to set
Variations and Substitutions
- Meat Alternatives: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for American, Swiss, or pepper jack
- Soup Substitution: Use cream of chicken or cream of celery
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup
- Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Prepare the beef mixture and assemble the casserole, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to baking time.
- How do I keep the French fries crispy? Ensure fries are frozen and spread in a single layer. Use a baking sheet if needed for extra crispiness.
- What side dishes pair well with this casserole? Simple green salad, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables complement the dish nicely.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight and bake as directed, adding extra cooking time.
- How can I make this dish healthier? Use lean ground beef, low-fat cheese, and bake instead of fry the fries.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking
- Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture
- Avoid microwaving to maintain French fry crispiness
Get ready to dive into this crowd-pleasing Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole – a delicious twist on two classic favorites!