Are you ready for a mouth-watering twist on your typical cheeseburger and fries? Look no further than this Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole recipe, a perfect blend of two classic favorites into one comforting dish. This easy-to-make casserole is ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you crave a hearty meal. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful dish that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 (10.5 oz) can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 package of frozen French fries (about 20 oz)
- Optional toppings: diced pickles, diced tomatoes, ketchup, mustard
Preparation:
1 – Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly.
2 – Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is browned and onions are translucent. Season with salt and pepper during cooking. Halfway through, add the minced garlic to prevent it from burning.
3 – Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until everything is well mixed. This creamy mixture forms the base of your casserole, giving it a rich and savory flavor.
4 – Layer the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the French fries at the bottom. Pour the beef and soup mixture over the fries, then sprinkle half of both cheeses over the top. Add the remaining fries and finish with the remaining cheese. This layering ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
5 – Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the fries are golden and crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
6 – Add Toppings: Once baked, you can add your choice of toppings like diced pickles, tomatoes, a drizzle of ketchup, or mustard to enhance the cheeseburger experience.
Why Try Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole?
- All-in-One Meal: Combining the elements of a cheeseburger and French fries in one dish not only saves on dishes but also melds the flavors together in an irresistible way.
- Customizable: Easily tailor this dish to your taste preferences. Consider adding bacon, jalapeños, or different types of cheese to make it your own.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole reheats well, making it a fantastic option for leftovers and meal prep.
Nutritional Benefits
While this dish is a comfort food favorite, you can make it healthier by opting for lean ground beef, low-fat cheese, and even substituting regular fries with sweet potato fries for added vitamins.