French Fry Casserole Bake
Why Make This Recipe
French Fry Casserole Bake is a fun and hearty dish that everyone in the family will love. It combines crunchy French fries with savory ground beef and creamy soups, all topped with melty cheese. This casserole is not only easy to make, but it also satisfies hungry appetites while bringing comfort food vibes to the table. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to please.
How to Make French Fry Casserole Bake
Ingredients:
- 32 ounces frozen crinkle-cut French fries
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- ½ cup sweet yellow onion, finely chopped
- 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
- 10.5 ounces cheddar cheese soup
- 2 tablespoons half and half
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cups mild cheddar cheese, freshly grated, divided into 1 cup and 2 cups
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Spread the entire bag of frozen crinkle-cut fries in a single layer over the prepared baking sheet. Evenly sprinkle the kosher salt and cracked black pepper over the frozen fries. Bake for 20-25 minutes, ensuring the fries are cooked and not soggy. Monitor closely as oven performance may vary.
- While the fries are baking, add the ground beef and finely chopped onions to a 4 to 5-quart stockpot or a 10 to 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Stir often until the beef is cooked through and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess liquid.
- Lower the heat to medium and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, half and half, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, then remove from heat.
- Spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Evenly spread the ground beef and soup mixture into the dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture.
- Remove the fries from the oven. Carefully spread them over the shredded cheddar layer. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheddar on top of the fries.
- Bake the casserole for 18-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the ground beef layer is bubbly. Serve while hot.
How to Serve French Fry Casserole Bake
Serve the French Fry Casserole Bake straight from the oven while it’s hot and gooey. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side salad for a refreshing touch. This meal is filling enough that everyone will leave the table satisfied!
How to Store French Fry Casserole Bake
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or heat individual portions in the microwave.
Tips to Make French Fry Casserole Bake
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter, but you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.
- Feel free to mix in favorite veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to add extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a bit of spice, add some hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture before baking.
Variation
For a twist, try using different kinds of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicier kick or mozzarella for a gooey texture. You can also swap the frozen fries for tater tots for a different texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?
Yes, but you will need to cook them separately before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are crispy.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake before serving.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans and use vegetable soup instead of cream of mushroom soup.
