Looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the crispy goodness of french fries? Look no further than our irresistible Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole! This hearty dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Packed with savory ground beef, gooey cheddar cheese, and crispy fries, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 (16 oz) package frozen french fries
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, pickles, ketchup, mustard
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook Ground Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Spread the condensed cheddar cheese soup evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the soup.
- Arrange the frozen french fries in a single layer over the beef mixture, covering it completely.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- Add Cheese and Toppings:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cooked casserole.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the casserole with optional toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, pickles, ketchup, and mustard.
- Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, meaty goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, you can mix some crumbled cooked bacon into the ground beef mixture.
- Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. You can also add ingredients like sliced jalapeños or avocado for an extra kick.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- To make a keto-friendly version of this casserole, you can use cauliflower florets instead of french fries. Simply steam the cauliflower until tender, then proceed with assembling the casserole as directed.
- For a low-carb version, you can use a combination of ground beef and ground turkey or chicken to reduce the overall carb content. You can also skip the condensed cheddar cheese soup and use heavy cream or cream cheese mixed with shredded cheddar instead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use homemade cheese sauce instead of condensed cheddar cheese soup? Yes, you can substitute homemade cheese sauce if you prefer. Simply melt together butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy, then spread it in the bottom of the baking dish as directed.
- Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen french fries? Yes, you can use fresh potatoes if you prefer. Simply slice them into thin strips, season with salt and pepper, and arrange them in a single layer over the beef mixture before baking.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
In conclusion, our Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in one delicious dish. With its hearty layers of ground beef, creamy cheese soup, crispy french fries, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a meal that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a taste of cheesy, meaty perfection!
