Introduction
Are you craving a dish that combines the best of two comfort foods—cheeseburgers and French fries? Look no further! This Easy Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is the perfect solution. It’s cheesy, meaty, and full of flavor. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple to make, even on a busy weeknight.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a hearty meal that feels like a restaurant favorite but made right in your own kitchen. Kids and adults alike will love it, making it an ideal family dinner.
Ingredients – Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole
Before we start cooking, let’s gather everything you’ll need. This recipe keeps things simple, and most ingredients are likely already in your pantry.
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 (16 oz) package frozen French fries
- 1/2 cup ketchup (optional, for topping)
- Pickles, tomatoes, or extra cheese for garnish (optional)
Step by Step Process – Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole
Cooking this casserole is easy if you follow each step carefully. Let’s dive in:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Drain excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic
Once the beef is cooked, add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. This step adds extra flavor to your casserole.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Then, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika if using.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Soup Mixture
Pour the cheese and soup mixture into the skillet with the cooked beef and onions. Stir well until everything is combined. This creamy mixture is the base of your casserole.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the beef mixture evenly at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Next, arrange the frozen French fries on top of the beef mixture in a single layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the fries. For an extra touch, drizzle ketchup on top if you like.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the fries are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with pickles, tomatoes, or extra cheese if desired. Slice into portions and serve warm. You now have a delicious, cheesy, and hearty meal that everyone will love!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake it right before serving.
2. Can I use sweet potato fries instead of regular fries?
Absolutely! Sweet potato fries add a slightly sweet flavor and extra nutrients.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, you can replace ground beef with plant-based meat or a mix of mushrooms and beans for a vegetarian-friendly option.
4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Of course! Cheddar works best for its melting quality, but you can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. It’s cheesy, savory, and loaded with flavor—all while being simple enough for a beginner cook to handle. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. The best part? It’s versatile. You can customize toppings, switch up the cheese, or even try different types of fries.
Give it a try and see how this easy casserole can quickly become a family favorite. Once you make it, you might even find it becoming a weekly staple in your home. Comfort food doesn’t get easier—or cheesier—than this!
