Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole

 Discover a hearty and comforting dish with this Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole recipe. Combining savory ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy French fries, this casserole is topped with a tangy ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish sauce. It's perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. Serve it hot with your favorite condiments and enjoy a delicious, easy-to-make meal. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated easily.

Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with crispy French fries. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering, offering a fun twist on a traditional meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to make this comforting dish.

INGREDIENTS

• Ground Beef: Use 1 pound of ground beef, cooked and crumbled for the base of the casserole.
• Onion: Add 1 large onion, diced, for a touch of sweetness and flavor.
• Garlic: Use 2 cloves of garlic, minced, to enhance the overall taste.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Provides a rich, cheesy layer. Use 2 cups.
• Frozen French Fries: The crispy topping for the casserole. Use 1 (16 oz) package.
• Ketchup: Adds a classic burger flavor. Use 1/2 cup.
• Mustard: Adds tanginess. Use 1/4 cup.
• Pickle Relish: Brings a sweet and tangy note. Use 1/4 cup.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the flavors.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.

Step 2:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's ready for baking the casserole.

Step 3:

Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked beef mixture in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, creating an even layer. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture, followed by a layer of frozen French fries on top of the cheese.

Step 4:

Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish until well combined.

Step 5:

Bake the Casserole: Drizzle the ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish mixture over the French fries. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the French fries are golden and crispy.

Step 6:

Serve: Serve the casserole hot with additional ketchup or your favorite condiments for a complete meal.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole hot, straight from the oven. It's a great dish for casual dinners, game day gatherings, or family meals. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place portions in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Helpful Notes

For a twist, consider adding some chopped pickles or bacon bits to the beef mixture for extra flavor. You can also customize the toppings by adding jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick. If you're looking for a lower-carb option, try using sweet potato fries or a cauliflower crust base instead of regular French fries.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests using high-quality ground beef for a richer taste and better texture.

Chef Alton Brown recommends letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.

Chef Rachael Ray advises adding a layer of caramelized onions on top of the beef mixture for a sweet and savory contrast.