1. Preheat Your Oven
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until it begins to brown.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until the meat is fully browned and the onions are soft (about 5–7 minutes).
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Season the Meat
- Add salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and mustard to the beef mixture, stirring to combine. This step enhances the “cheeseburger” flavor, giving the meat that classic savory and slightly tangy taste.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Casserole Layers
- Pour the beef mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, spreading it into a smooth layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef layer. This will melt into the meat, creating a deliciously cheesy layer.
- Arrange the frozen French fries in a single layer over the cheese. If you like, you can season the fries lightly with salt or a sprinkle of garlic powder for added flavor.
5. Bake
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- For an extra-crispy topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!
6. Add Toppings and Serve
- Once the casserole is out of the oven, top it with any optional garnishes, like pickles, green onions, or a drizzle of ketchup and mustard for that burger feel.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes, then serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole
- Use Quality Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend provides the best flavor and moisture.
- Try Different Cheeses: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack for added flavor variations.
- Season the Fries: Lightly seasoning the fries before baking adds extra flavor.
- Customize with Add-Ins: Try mixing in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or bacon bits with the beef for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side salad or steamed veggies to balance out the meal. You can also offer extra burger toppings like lettuce, sliced tomato, or avocado on the side for a fun DIY cheeseburger-inspired meal.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the baked casserole in portions for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10–15 minutes, or until hot.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is perfect for casual family meals, as it combines beloved flavors in a cozy, convenient way. Each bite is filled with savory, cheesy goodness and crispy fries—a winning combination that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.