Why You’ll Love Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole Recipe
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings together classic diner flavors in a quick and convenient way. It’s hearty, cheesy, and customizable with your favorite burger toppings. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a fun potluck dish, this recipe offers all the comfort of fast food with the warmth of a home-cooked meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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20-ounce bag frozen crinkle-cut French fries
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2 pounds lean ground beef
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2 (10.5 oz) cans of cream of mushroom soup
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2 teaspoons steak sauce
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional toppings:
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Pickles
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Shredded lettuce
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Chopped tomatoes
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Chopped onions
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the rack in the middle. Spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
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Spread the frozen crinkle-cut fries in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until they’re crispy to your liking.
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While the fries are baking, cook the ground beef in a sauté pan over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess grease.
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Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and steak sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
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Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Layer the baked fries over the beef mixture.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the fries.
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Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
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Serve hot with optional burger toppings like pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, or onions.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 6 to 8 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Bacon cheeseburger style: Add cooked crumbled bacon to the beef layer.
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Spicy kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
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Tater tot topping: Swap the French fries for tater tots for a twist.
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Cheese blend: Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
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Healthier option: Use ground turkey and low-fat cheese, or swap for a cream of chicken or celery soup.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
FAQs
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute it with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a homemade white sauce for a similar texture and taste.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, assemble the casserole (without baking the fries) and refrigerate for up to a day. Add the fries and cheese just before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the beef layer separately. Add fries and cheese after thawing for the best texture.
What other toppings work well?
Bacon bits, jalapeños, or a drizzle of ketchup and mustard can add great flavor.
Is this casserole spicy?
No, but you can make it spicy by adding hot sauce or chili flakes to the beef mixture.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries?
Yes, slice and bake them first until crispy, then layer them just like frozen fries.
How can I make this vegetarian?
Use plant-based ground beef and a vegetarian mushroom soup. There are also many dairy-free cheese options available.
What side dishes go well with this casserole?
A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light coleslaw balances the richness of the dish.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a nacho cheese blend would work great.
Will the fries stay crispy after baking?
They’ll soften slightly under the cheese, but pre-baking them ensures they keep some crispness.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is a fun and delicious twist on two comfort food classics. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this hearty casserole is a surefire hit for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. Customize it with your favorite burger toppings and enjoy a flavorful, cheesy dish that brings everyone to the table.
