Name: Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 package (about 20 oz) frozen French fries (crinkle-cut or regular); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or American cheese; ½ cup diced onions (optional); ½ cup diced pickles (optional); 1 tablespoon ketchup; 1 tablespoon mustard; ½ cup milk; ¼ cup mayonnaise; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole combines the best of two classic comfort foods into one irresistible dish. Layers of seasoned ground beef, crispy fries, and melted cheese make it perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering. It’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy any cheeseburger craving.

A bowl filled with a thick, smooth orange soup as the base layer, topped with a creamy white sauce swirled across the center. On top, there are small browned meat pieces scattered evenly, along with bright green leafy herbs and chunks of soft orange vegetables. A sprinkle of ground black pepper and seasoning dots the surface, adding texture and contrast. The bowl is white with a thin brown rim, and steam rises softly from the hot soup, all set against a white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 package (about 20 oz) frozen French fries (crinkle-cut or regular)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or American cheese
½ cup diced onions (optional)
½ cup diced pickles (optional, for a true cheeseburger flavor)
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 tablespoon mustard
½ cup milk
¼ cup mayonnaise
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder if using. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
Step 2: Stir in ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise into the cooked beef. Add diced onions and pickles if desired, mixing well. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the frozen French fries evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Step 4: Pour the beef mixture over the fries, spreading it evenly across the top.
Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the beef and fries, covering the entire surface.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the fries are crispy.
Step 7: Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve immediately with extra ketchup or mustard on the side.

Tips & Variations

For a cheesier dish, use a blend of cheddar and American cheese or add more cheese on top before baking.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some heat.
Use sweet potato fries instead of regular fries for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Ensure fries are spread evenly for consistent crispiness throughout.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the fries soggy.

How to Serve

A white bowl is filled with a thick orange soup as the base layer. On top, there is a light cream sauce spread unevenly across the surface. Scattered over this are small brown sausage pieces, chunks of orange vegetables, and fresh green herb leaves. Black pepper specks are sprinkled all over, adding texture and contrast. Some steam rises from the hot soup, showing it is freshly served. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen French fries?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes cut into fries, but be sure to par-cook them by baking or frying until slightly tender before assembling the casserole to ensure they cook through properly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving. It also reheats well for quick meals throughout the week.