Introduction

Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with crispy baked fries. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this casserole is easy to prepare and sure to be loved by the whole family.

The dish is served in a round, black skillet placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a mix of browned ground meat and small tomato pieces with a rich, chunky texture, topped by a thick layer of melted yellow and white cheese that is gooey and slightly browned in spots. On the top, there are golden, crisp French fries scattered unevenly, with a sprinkling of chopped green herbs and a few black pepper specks for garnish. The overall look is warm and cheesy with a mix of textures from the soft cheese to the crispy fries. 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 for a more classic taste)
½ cup diced onions (optional)
½ cup pickles, diced (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, cook the ground beef over medium heat, 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 using, mixing well. Set aside.
Step 3: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the frozen French fries evenly on the bottom of the dish. Pour the beef mixture over the fries, spreading evenly.
Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef and fries, covering the dish completely.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the fries are crispy.
Step 6: Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately. Optionally, serve with extra ketchup or mustard on the side.

Tips & Variations

For crispier fries, pre-bake them slightly before layering with the beef mixture to avoid sogginess.
Try mixing different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for varied flavors.
Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or sprinkle chili flakes on top to spice it up.
Include crispy crumbled bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian ground meat for a lighter or meatless option.
Use tater tots instead of fries for a fun twist.
If you prefer, swap mayonnaise for sour cream or Greek yogurt in the beef mixture.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months by wrapping tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a round black pan filled with a layered dish. The bottom layer has diced tomatoes and cooked ground beef with a brown texture. On top of that is a thick layer of melted yellow and white cheddar cheese mixed evenly, with some small green herb pieces sprinkled on it. The cheese layer is topped with golden french fries scattered across the top, some standing upright and others lying flat. The dish sits on a white marbled textured surface, with a red cloth partially visible to the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours ahead. Cover it tightly and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.

Can I use homemade fries instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Homemade fries or tater tots work well, just ensure they are pre-cooked or crispy enough to hold up during baking.

Can I make this recipe without beef?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian substitute can be used for a lighter or meatless version of the casserole.