Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole

This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with crispy golden fries in one hearty dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings, this casserole is easy to prepare and packed with savory goodness. Topped with melty cheese and customizable garnishes, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• All-in-One Dish: Combines beef, cheese, fries, and seasonings into a single pan for minimal cleanup.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like pickles, tomatoes, or lettuce for a personalized touch.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun twist on traditional cheeseburgers that kids (and adults!) will adore.

 Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ onion , finely diced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• 1 cup cheddar cheese , shredded (plus extra for topping, optional)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup yellow mustard
• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen French fries
• Optional toppings: Diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, lettuce, or extra cheese

 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the beef mixture with garlic powder , salt , and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup , milk , ketchup , and mustard until smooth.
2. Add the soup mixture to the skillet with the cooked beef, stirring until well combined.
3. Spread the beef mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish .

Step 3: Add Cheese and Fries

1. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
2. Arrange the frozen French fries in an even layer on top of the cheese.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes , or until the fries are golden and crispy.
2. For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle additional cheese on top and bake for another 5 minutes , or until melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
2. Garnish with optional toppings like diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, lettuce, or extra cheese for added flavor and freshness.
3. Serve warm and enjoy this indulgent, family-friendly dish!

Tips for Success:

• Switch Up the Cheese: Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
• Add Veggies: Stir in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños into the beef mixture for added texture and taste.
• Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a kick.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freeze Option: Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6):

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: ~20g
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Fat: ~25g

Enjoy this Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole as a hearty, comforting meal that brings together all the best parts of a classic cheeseburger. With its crispy fries, gooey cheese, and savory beef, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table—whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for game night!