Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole
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There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty casserole, especially when it combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with the crispy texture of french fries. This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an all-in-one dish that the whole family will love. I remember the first time I made this recipe during a busy weeknight—a chaotic day transformed into a deliciously satisfying dinner with minimal effort. It’s the kind of dish you whip up when you want something quick yet indulgent.
Why you’ll love this dish
So why should you give this Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole a try? For starters, it’s an incredible time-saver. With just a few ingredients that you can easily keep on hand, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or even casual gatherings with friends. It’s budget-friendly too, utilizing staples like ground beef and frozen french fries to create a filling meal that doesn’t break the bank. Plus, it’s a kid-approved hit—who can resist gooey cheese, seasoned beef, and crispy fries?
“I made this casserole for my family last night, and it was devoured within minutes! It’s like a cheeseburger but in a much more fun way. Definitely making it again!" – A satisfied home cook.
How this recipe comes together
The beauty of this Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is in its simplicity. You’ll start by preheating your oven, then mix up the filling with ground beef, onions, and sauces. Layering is key here, as you build up the flavors and textures that meld perfectly during baking. Each step is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
What you’ll need
Gather these staples to whip up a delicious Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole:
- 1 lb. lean ground beef
- 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
- 1 (10 oz.) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 2 (10 oz.) cans cheddar cheese soup
- 1 (24 oz.) bag frozen french fries
- 1/4 cup of ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Quartered hamburger pickle chips for garnish
Pro tip: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative.
Step-by-step instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F and prep a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef and chopped onion. Crumble the beef and mix it together with the ketchup until well combined.
Spread the beef mixture at the bottom of the prepared baking dish, seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.
Pour the cream of mushroom soup and cheddar cheese soup over the meat, spreading evenly with a spatula.
Top everything with an even layer of frozen french fries, then pop it in the oven.
Bake for 1 hour until everything is bubbly and golden brown.
Finish with quarter hamburger pickle chips on top for a classic touch and serve warm. Enjoy every bite!
Best ways to enjoy it
This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is delicious all on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with a few simple ideas. Serve it alongside a fresh salad drizzled with ranch dressing to balance the richness. For an extra touch, consider serving with warm bread rolls or garlic bread. The options are endless!
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (which is not guaranteed—this dish is that good!), you can easily store them. Let the casserole cool completely, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then refrigerate. It keeps well for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it before baking; just make sure to use a freezer-safe dish. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from your freezer, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it heats through.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few secrets to making your casserole even better:
- Brown the ground beef before mixing it with other ingredients for richer flavor.
- For added creaminess, consider stirring in a little sour cream to the soup mixture.
- Spice it up! Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like heat.
Creative twists
Feel like experimenting? Here are a couple of variations you might love:
- Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: Incorporate crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor.
- Vegetable twist: Throw in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for a healthy boost.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
- Total time, including baking, is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes! You can assemble and refrigerate it before baking for up to 24 hours. Just adjust your baking time accordingly.
What are some good substitutes for cheddar cheese soup?
- You can use a homemade cheese sauce or any creamy, cheesy soup as a substitute—feel free to experiment with different flavors!
With this Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole, you’re on your way to serving up a family favorite that’s not only easy to make but also an absolute crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!
Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prep a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef and chopped onion. Crumble the beef and mix with the ketchup until well combined.
- Spread the beef mixture at the bottom of the prepared baking dish, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the cream of mushroom soup and cheddar cheese soup over the meat, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Top with an even layer of frozen french fries, then pop it in the oven.
- Bake for 1 hour until everything is bubbly and golden brown.
- Finish with quartered hamburger pickle chips on top for garnish and serve warm.
