Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, satisfying bake. Featuring seasoned beef, creamy sauce, melty cheese, and crispy fries, this dish is a hearty crowd-pleaser that delivers comfort and nostalgia in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a perfect fusion of two favorites: cheeseburgers and French fries. It is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring simple ingredients and minimal prep time. The casserole is highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite burger toppings for a personalized touch. Ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual family dinners, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 lb ground beef
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1/2 onion, finely diced
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1 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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1/2 cup milk
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1/4 cup ketchup
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1/4 cup yellow mustard
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1 bag (32 oz) frozen French fries
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Optional toppings: diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, lettuce, or extra cheese for garnish
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion until browned and fully cooked.
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Drain the grease completely from the skillet.
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Season the beef with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, ketchup, and mustard until smooth.
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Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef and stir until well incorporated.
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Spread the beef mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base layer.
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Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer.
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Arrange the frozen French fries on top of the cheese in a single layer.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, until the fries are golden and crispy.
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Top with additional cheese if desired and bake for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
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Garnish with diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or extra cheese as desired.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 6–8
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
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Total Time: 50–55 minutes
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Calories: Approximately 550 kcal per serving
Variations
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Bacon Cheeseburger: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
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Spicy: Stir in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
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Double Cheese: Use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a richer cheese flavor.
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Veggie Style: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the beef layer.
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Low-Carb Version: Substitute the fries with roasted cauliflower florets for a lighter alternative.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place portions in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until heated through and the fries are re-crisped.
Microwaving is also an option, though the fries may lose some crispness. For best results, reheat in an oven or air fryer.
FAQs
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole without baking and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
What other soups can I use instead of cream of mushroom?
Cream of chicken or cream of cheddar soup would also work well.
Can I use homemade French fries?
Yes, homemade fries can be used; just ensure they are pre-cooked before assembling.
How do I keep the fries crispy?
Bake uncovered and arrange the fries in a single layer to ensure they crisp up properly.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach make excellent additions.
What type of ground beef is best?
An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) provides good flavor without excessive grease.
Can I use shredded lettuce in the casserole?
It is best used as a garnish after baking to maintain its crispness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this casserole?
It is not recommended to freeze after baking, as the fries may become soggy upon thawing.
What toppings go best with this casserole?
Diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, extra cheese, and a drizzle of special sauce all pair wonderfully.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that marries the best elements of a cheeseburger and French fries into a single, easy-to-make dish. Perfect for family meals, casual gatherings, or anytime you are craving a hearty, satisfying meal, this casserole promises to be a favorite at your table. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious twist on two classic favorites.
Print
Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Dinner, Casserole, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Get ready for ultimate comfort with this Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole! Juicy ground beef, creamy sauce, cheddar cheese, and crispy fries come together for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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1/2 onion, finely diced
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1 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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1/2 cup milk
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1/4 cup ketchup
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1/4 cup yellow mustard
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1 bag (32 oz) frozen French fries
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Optional toppings: diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, lettuce, extra cheese for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned and tender.
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Drain excess grease, then season the beef with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, ketchup, and mustard until smooth.
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Stir the sauce into the beef mixture until fully combined.
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Spread the beef mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
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Arrange frozen French fries on top in a single layer.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until fries are golden and crisp.
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If desired, sprinkle extra cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until melted.
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Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with diced pickles, tomatoes, or shredded lettuce if desired.
Notes
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Swap cheddar with a blend of cheeses for extra flavor.
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You can use tater tots instead of fries for a fun twist.
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For a spicy kick, mix a little hot sauce into the beef mixture.
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