Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened.
- Season: Stir in the salt, black pepper, and paprika. Add the Worcestershire sauce and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Mix Cheese Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cheddar cheese soup and milk. Stir until smooth.
- Add Cheese: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir to combine.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer Beef: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Add Cheese Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the beef, spreading it evenly.
- Top with Fries: Arrange the frozen French fries on top of the cheese sauce in an even layer.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the fries. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings such as diced tomatoes, chopped pickles, shredded lettuce, ketchup, and mustard. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a different twist.
- Vegetable Addition: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Use different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorites for varied flavors.
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger and Fries Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a flavorful and hearty meal with minimal effort. Enjoy making and sharing this satisfying casserole with your family and friends.
Key Takeaway
Cheeseburger and Fries Casserole offers a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that’s full of classic cheeseburger flavors combined with crispy fries. This versatile recipe can be customized with various ingredients and toppings to suit your taste. Enjoy the comforting, hearty goodness of homemade cheeseburger and fries casserole!