Imagine the mouthwatering flavors of a classic cheeseburger combined with the crispy, golden goodness of french fries, all in one hearty casserole. Cheeseburger & Fries Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, making it a perfect addition to your family dinner rotation. This dish captures the essence of a diner-style cheeseburger while adding a delightful twist with the inclusion of crispy fries. Prepare to indulge in a comforting and nostalgic culinary experience that’s sure to satisfy every member of the family.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (20-ounce) package frozen crinkle-cut french fries
For Garnish (Optional):
- Sliced dill pickles
- Sliced tomatoes
- Chopped lettuce
- Additional ketchup and mustard
Instructions
Preparing the Casserole:
- Begin by preheating your oven to the temperature specified on the package of frozen french fries. This is usually around 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. If you’re using ground turkey, add a small amount of oil to the skillet to prevent sticking.
- Once the meat is browned, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onions become translucent.
- Stir in the ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Assembling the Casserole:
- Transfer the meat mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the meat mixture, creating a gooey and savory layer.
- Arrange the frozen crinkle-cut french fries on top of the cheese in a single layer. Make sure to cover the entire surface.
Baking the Casserole:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake according to the package instructions for the french fries, typically around 20-25 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
Serving:
- Once the Cheeseburger & Fries Casserole is hot and bubbling, remove it from the oven.
- Serve it hot, garnished with sliced dill pickles, sliced tomatoes, chopped lettuce, and a drizzle of ketchup and mustard if desired.
- Scoop out generous servings and watch your family’s eyes light up as they savor the delightful combination of cheeseburger and fries in each bite.
Variations and Tips
- Add Bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon is a fantastic addition for extra flavor and crunch. Mix it in with the ground beef or sprinkle it over the cheese layer.
- Veggie Variation: Sneak in some vegetables by adding diced tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, or bell peppers to the meat mixture.
- Spicy Twist: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
- Custom Toppings: Let everyone customize their casserole with their favorite burger toppings like onions, pickles, and condiments.
Cheeseburger & Fries Casserole brings the classic flavors of a cheeseburger and the comfort of crispy fries into one satisfying dish. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic taste of your favorite diner or simply want to treat your family to a hearty and fun dinner, this casserole delivers. So, preheat your oven, layer on the goodness, and indulge in a delightful combination of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this comforting family favorite!
