Cheeseburger and Fries Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with the beloved crispiness of french fries, all in one satisfying dish. This recipe captures the essence of your favorite fast-food indulgence but in a convenient casserole form that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Let’s dive into creating this nostalgic comfort food classic.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed tomato soup
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup mustard
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups frozen french fries
For Garnish:
- Pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onions are translucent.
- Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, paprika, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir well to combine.
- Stir in the condensed tomato soup, ketchup, and mustard. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture is heated through and well combined. Remove the skillet from heat.
Assembling the Casserole:
- Transfer the beef mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
- Arrange the frozen french fries on top of the cheese layer in a single, even layer.
Baking the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbly.
Serving:
- Remove the Cheeseburger & Fries Casserole from the oven.
- Garnish with diced pickles, tomatoes, and shredded lettuce if desired, to mimic the classic cheeseburger toppings.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations and Tips
- Bacon Bliss: Enhance the flavor by adding crumbled bacon to the beef mixture or sprinkling it on top of the cheese.
- Veggie Delight: Incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or pickled jalapeños for a veggie-packed twist.
- Special Sauces: Experiment with different condiments like barbecue sauce, sriracha mayo, or ranch dressing for unique flavor profiles.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Swap regular french fries for sweet potato fries for a sweet and savory combination.
- Make It Mini: Prepare individual servings in ramekins for a personalized touch.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
- Top with Onions: Add sautéed or crispy fried onions as a flavorful garnish.
- Adjust the Spice: Tailor the seasonings to your taste, adding more paprika for smokiness or hot sauce for heat.
Cheeseburger & Fries Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic fast-food favorite, offering all the flavors you love in a convenient casserole format. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether enjoyed with traditional cheeseburger toppings or customized to your preferences, this dish captures the essence of comfort food. So, bring the taste of the drive-thru home and indulge in the nostalgia of this classic casserole.
