Have you ever craved the perfect combination of a cheeseburger and french fries? Well, look no further because I have a recipe that will satisfy all your cravings. Introducing the Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole!
Why You’ll Love This
I make this casserole when I want to indulge in the flavors of a cheeseburger and fries without the hassle of grilling burgers or frying potatoes. It’s a one-dish wonder that brings together all the classic elements of a cheeseburger and pairs them with crispy french fries. My family goes crazy for this dish because it’s comforting, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup pickles, chopped
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 bag frozen french fries
I sometimes use lean ground turkey instead of beef when I’m looking for a lighter option. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack or Swiss, to add a twist to the flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can use pre-made frozen burger patties instead of cooking ground beef.
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and continue cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Drain any excess grease from the skillet and season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, paprika, and mustard powder. Stir in the ketchup, mayonnaise, and chopped pickles. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Transfer the beef mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Arrange the frozen french fries in a single layer on top of the cheese. You can use crinkle-cut, shoestring, or any other type of french fries you prefer.
6. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the fries are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This is where I usually sneak a taste because it smells so amazing!
8. Serve the Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole hot, garnished with additional pickles, ketchup, and mayonnaise if desired. Don’t worry if it looks a bit weird at this stage – it always does!
Notes
The beef mixture can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble the casserole. You can also make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives.
Variations
I’ve experimented with adding different toppings to this casserole, like crispy bacon or diced tomatoes. One variation that didn’t work out so well was adding sliced avocados, as they turned mushy during the baking process. However, feel free to get creative and try your own toppings!
Equipment
While not essential, a cast-iron skillet is perfect for cooking the ground beef and onions due to its even heat distribution. If you don’t have one, a regular skillet will work just fine. Alternatively, you can use a baking dish to cook the beef mixture on the stovetop and then transfer it to a casserole dish for baking.
Storage
This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Though honestly, in my house, it never lasts more than a day!
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole with a side of crisp lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. It adds a refreshing contrast to the cheesy and meaty flavors. You can also serve it alongside a bowl of tangy coleslaw or a simple green salad.
Pro Tips
From my experience, I’ve learned that it’s essential to let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut into neat portions. I once tried rushing this step and regretted it because the casserole ended up being a bit messy.
Another tip is to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. If you like a spicier kick, add some hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!
FAQ
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen french fries?
A: Absolutely! You can peel and slice potatoes into thin strips and use them instead of frozen fries. Just make sure to parboil them for a few minutes before assembling the casserole to ensure they cook through.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. However, keep in mind that the texture of the fries may change slightly after freezing and reheating.
Q: Can I make this casserole in advance?
A: Definitely! You can prepare the casserole up until step 5, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake it, simply remove the cover and follow the remaining instructions.
Now that you have the recipe for this mouthwatering Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Trust me, once you take a bite of this cheesy, meaty, and crispy delight, you’ll be hooked. Enjoy!
Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole
Satisfy your cravings for a cheeseburger and French fries with this delicious casserole that combines all the classic elements of a cheeseburger in a comforting one-dish meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup pickles, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag frozen french fries
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and continue cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
-
Drain any excess grease from the skillet and season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, paprika, and mustard powder. Stir in the ketchup, mayonnaise, and chopped pickles. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes.
-
Transfer the beef mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
-
Arrange the frozen french fries in a single layer on top of the cheese.
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Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, and the fries are golden brown and crispy.
-
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
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Serve the Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole hot, garnished with additional pickles, ketchup, and mayonnaise if desired.