Follow these simple steps to make your Cheeseburger French Fry Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the beef: Stir in the onion soup mix, salt, and pepper, then mix in the ketchup and mustard. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the sauce to thicken.
- Assemble the bake: Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer the frozen French fries over the beef, covering it completely.
- Bake the fries: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the French fries are golden and crispy. You may want to stir the fries halfway through for even cooking.
- Top with cheese: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the fries. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional toppings: Once the bake is out of the oven, you can add optional toppings like diced pickles, onions, or even a drizzle of extra ketchup or mustard for an authentic cheeseburger experience.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the bake sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Scoop out portions and serve hot!
Serving and Storage
This Cheeseburger French Fry Bake serves about 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes. It’s perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together with friends. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot, and the cheese will still melt beautifully!
Tips
- Customize your fries: If you prefer a healthier option, use sweet potato fries instead of regular fries. You can also opt for crinkle-cut fries for extra crispiness.
- Make it spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick!
- Mix up the cheese: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different twist.
- Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. This is a great option if you want to save time on a busy weeknight.
Conclusion
The Cheeseburger French Fry Bake is a fun and easy way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in casserole form. With its savory ground beef, crispy fries, melted cheese, and familiar burger toppings, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a quick dinner that’s both satisfying and delicious, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
FAQ
- Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?
- Yes, you can! Just make sure to cut the fries into thin, even pieces and adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook fully in the casserole.
- Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used to make this dish lighter or vegetarian-friendly.
- How do I reheat leftovers?
- You can reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven. To maintain the crispy texture of the fries, we recommend reheating in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to bake it until it’s fully heated through.