Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef and onion with ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the frozen French fries, then half of the beef mixture, and half of the cheese. Repeat with the remaining fries, beef mixture, and cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the fries are crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
Once out of the oven, let your Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole be the star of the meal! Serve it with a side salad for a fresh contrast or some garlic bread to soak up that cheesy goodness. Want to elevate the experience? Offer toppings like sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream on the side for guests to customize their servings.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to preserve it longer, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure to seal them tightly! When it’s time to reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Microwaving is an option, too; just use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best flavor and texture, make sure to drain any grease after cooking the beef. This prevents the casserole from becoming soggy. Additionally, feel free to get creative with the seasoning! A pinch of garlic powder or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can elevate the flavor further.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to switch up the flavors in your Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole. You could add chopped pickles for that extra zing, or use seasoned sweet potato fries for a subtly sweet twist. If you’re looking for a healthier spin, toss in some veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition!
Common questions
What if I don’t have ground beef?
You can easily swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
How long does it take to prepare?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking will take an additional 25-30 minutes in the oven, making it a quick meal option.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Is it safe to freeze leftovers?
Yes! This casserole freezes well. Just portion it out into individual containers for quick meals later on. Make sure it’s fully cooled before freezing to maintain the best quality.
This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is more than just comfort food—it’s a fun, interactive meal that brings family together. Ready to give it a try?
