Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is a comforting, all-in-one dish that combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with the crispy indulgence of French fries. With seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and golden fries baked into one irresistible casserole, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is the ultimate comfort food—easy to prepare, kid-friendly, and packed with familiar flavors. It’s customizable, requires minimal cleanup, and serves as a full meal in one dish. With crispy fries on top and a savory cheeseburger-inspired filling underneath, it’s bound to be a new family favorite.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ onion, finely diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cheddar cheese soup)
- ½ cup ketchup (optional, for a classic cheeseburger flavor)
- 1 bag (about 20 oz) frozen French fries
- Optional: chopped pickles, mustard drizzle, or green onions for topping
directions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. - Mix the Filling
Stir in the condensed soup and ketchup (if using) until well combined. Mix in half of the shredded cheese. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat. - Assemble the Casserole
Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with frozen French fries in a single layer. - Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the fries are golden and crispy. - Add Cheese and Finish
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the fries and bake for another 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Serve
Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Optionally garnish with pickles, mustard drizzle, or chopped green onions.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 55–60 minutes
Calories: Approximately 480 kcal per serving
Variations
- Bacon cheeseburger: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef mixture.
- Spicy version: Stir in jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Double cheeseburger: Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
- Tater tot version: Substitute French fries with tater tots for a crispier topping.
- Low-carb: Use roasted cauliflower florets instead of fries.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. For crispier fries, avoid microwaving or reheat in an air fryer for a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?
Yes, just par-bake or pan-fry them slightly before adding to ensure they crisp in the oven.
Is there a substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
Use cream of cheddar, cream of chicken, or make a homemade roux-based cheese sauce.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole (without the fries), refrigerate, then add fries just before baking.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze before baking (without fries), then thaw and bake with fries added fresh.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Cheddar works well, but Colby Jack, American, or a shredded cheese blend also work.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely—add bell peppers, corn, or chopped tomatoes to the beef mixture.
What kind of ground meat can I use?
Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used as alternatives to beef.
Will the fries stay crispy?
Yes, if baked uncovered and spread in a single layer. Use crinkle-cut or shoestring fries for best results.
How do I add more flavor?
Add mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or dill pickle juice to the beef mixture.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, the familiar flavors of cheeseburgers and fries are usually a big hit with children.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is a delicious mash-up of classic diner flavors baked into one cozy, satisfying dish. Perfect for feeding a family or pleasing a crowd, this recipe offers flexibility, ease, and tons of flavor. With minimal prep and maximum comfort, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Print
Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Description
Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mash-up—savory seasoned ground beef layered with gooey cheese and crispy French fries, all baked into one satisfying casserole. It’s easy, cheesy, and a guaranteed family favorite. Keywords: Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole, ground beef casserole, cheesy beef and fries bake, kid-friendly dinner, easy beef casserole recipe.
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 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cheddar soup
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1/2 cup milk
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1 bag frozen French fries (crinkle cut or shoestring work best)
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Optional toppings: pickles, diced tomatoes, ketchup drizzle, or chopped parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and onion is soft.
3. Drain excess grease. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add soup and milk, mixing until smooth and combined. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
5. Pour the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Top evenly with frozen French fries.
Step 4: Bake
7. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until fries are golden and cooked through.
8. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese over top and bake for another 5 minutes until melted.
Step 5: Serve
9. Garnish with optional toppings and serve hot.
Notes
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Use tater tots instead of fries for a fun variation.
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Add a squirt of mustard or chopped pickles to the beef mix for a true cheeseburger flavor.
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Great for make-ahead meals—just assemble and refrigerate before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
