Welcome to our comfort food section! Today, we’re sharing a delicious and hearty recipe for Cheeseburger and Fries Casserole. This dish combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with crispy French fries in a convenient casserole form. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 bag (20 oz) frozen French fries
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
- Cook the Ground Beef: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and heated through.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Beef Mixture: Spread the ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Top with Fries: Arrange the frozen French fries in a single layer over the cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- Add Remaining Cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the fries. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this comforting and delicious cheeseburger and fries casserole!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Beef Options: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Variations
Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the ground beef mixture for a bacon cheeseburger twist.
BBQ Cheeseburger Casserole
Replace the ketchup with your favorite BBQ sauce for a tangy and smoky flavor.
Veggie Cheeseburger Casserole
Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the ground beef mixture for added vegetables.
Low-Carb Version
Replace the French fries with cauliflower florets or green beans for a lower-carb version of this casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ground beef mixture and assemble the casserole up to the point of adding the French fries. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the fries and bake when ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole (before baking) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
How can I make the fries extra crispy?
For extra crispy fries, bake them separately on a baking sheet until they are halfway cooked before adding them to the casserole.
This Cheeseburger and Fries Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with crispy French fries. It’s perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together. Enjoy making and sharing this hearty meal with your loved ones!