This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is the ultimate mashup of two comfort food favorites: juicy cheeseburgers and crispy fries! Layers of seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and golden French fries come together in one bubbling, irresistible dish. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd at game day parties, family dinners, or casual get-togethers. Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Let’s dig in!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion , finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese , divided
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese , divided
- 2 cups cooked French fries (homemade or store-bought, oven-baked or fried)
- ¼ cup ketchup (plus more for serving, optional)
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Dill pickle slices
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
- If using frozen French fries, bake them according to package instructions until crispy but not fully browned. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic, and cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, breaking the meat into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Stir in the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and mustard. Cook for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread half of the cooked French fries evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon the ground beef mixture over the fries, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the beef layer.
- Top with the remaining French fries, pressing them gently into the cheese layer.
Step 4: Add the Cheesy Topping
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top layer of fries.
- For extra flavor, drizzle a little more ketchup or mustard over the top if desired.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes , or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- If you want extra crispiness on the fries, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with dill pickle slices, chopped green onions, or sesame seeds for added flair.
- Serve with extra ketchup, mustard, or your favorite burger toppings on the side.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- All-in-One Dish: Combines the flavors of a cheeseburger and fries in one easy-to-make casserole.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun twist on classic comfort foods that kids and adults alike will adore.
- Customizable: Add bacon, jalapeños, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Use Crispy Fries: Whether homemade or store-bought, make sure the fries are baked until crispy before assembling the casserole.
- Don’t Overload the Layers: Keep the layers even to ensure every bite has a balance of flavors and textures.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Ways to Enjoy Your Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole:
- Game Day Favorite: Perfect for football games, movie nights, or casual gatherings.
- Weeknight Dinner: Pair with a simple side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
- Meal Prep: Divide leftovers into individual portions for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Party Pleaser: Bring this dish to potlucks—it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is the ultimate comfort food reinvented. With its crispy fries, savory beef, and melty cheese, it’s a dish that brings together all the best parts of a classic cheeseburger in one pan. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something indulgent, this casserole is sure to hit the spot. So grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of cheesy, beefy goodness
