French Fry Casserole Recipe

Craving something hearty and satisfying that combines two of the best comfort foods—French fries and a cheesy, savory casserole? Look no further! This French Fry Casserole recipe is the perfect mix of crispy fries, flavorful beef, and creamy cheeses that’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you're cooking for a family gathering, a cozy dinner, or a potluck, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds. Read through the full article to ensure you master every detail of this delicious dish!

this Recipe

What is French Fry Casserole?

A French Fry Casserole is a fusion of classic comfort foods—crispy French fries baked into a hearty, cheesy casserole. Layers of seasoned ground beef, onions, mushroom and cheddar soups, and of course, crinkle-cut French fries are baked together to create a mouthwatering, gooey, and crunchy meal. This dish is perfect for casual weeknight dinners or family gatherings and can be easily customized based on your preferences.

Ingredients List for French Fry Casserole

Before you begin, it’s important to gather all your ingredients so the cooking process goes smoothly. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious French Fry Casserole:

• 32 ounces frozen crinkle-cut French fries: These fries bring the crispy, crunchy texture that’s the hallmark of this casserole. You can also opt for other styles of fries like shoestring or steak-cut for a different experience.
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt: Salt will bring out the natural flavors of the beef and fries.
• ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice to the dish.
• 2 pounds lean ground beef: The main protein in this dish, ground beef pairs perfectly with the fries and cheesy goodness.
• ½ cup sweet yellow onion, finely chopped: Sweet onions add a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements.
• 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup: A creamy and savory base for the casserole.
• 10.5 ounces cheddar cheese soup: Cheese lovers rejoice! This soup adds that ooey-gooey cheesiness that ties the dish together.
• 2 tablespoons half and half: Adds creaminess and helps the ingredients mix smoothly.
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: A key ingredient that enhances the flavor of the beef and gives a rich, savory depth to the casserole.
• 3 cups mild cheddar cheese, freshly grated: For that perfect cheesy topping. Divide it into 1 cup for the filling and 2 cups for the topping.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile, and you can easily make substitutions or variations depending on dietary preferences and what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner option, you can swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
• Vegan or Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils and use dairy-free versions of the soups and cheese.
• Sweet Potato Fries: For a healthier twist, swap out regular French fries with sweet potato fries, adding a sweet and savory combination.
• Different Cheeses: Feel free to mix up the cheeses. Use sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor or add mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• Add Veggies: You can easily sneak in some veggies like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s dive into how to cook this delicious French Fry Casserole. Follow these easy steps for a perfect result every time.

1. Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and gets that golden, bubbly top.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it's browned all the way through. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Be sure to break up the beef as it cooks to get an even texture.

3. Add Onions and Seasoning

Once the beef is fully browned, add the finely chopped sweet yellow onion, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, which should take another 2-3 minutes.

4. Stir in the Soups and Sauces

Lower the heat and add both the cream of mushroom soup and cheddar cheese soup to the beef mixture. Stir until everything is combined. Next, add the Worcestershire sauce and half and half. Continue stirring until the mixture is creamy and well-incorporated. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to thicken slightly.

5. Add Cheese

Stir in 1 cup of the freshly grated cheddar cheese. This helps to make the filling extra cheesy and satisfying.

6. Assemble the Casserole

Now that your filling is ready, it's time to assemble the casserole. Take a large baking dish (around 9x13 inches) and spread the beef mixture evenly at the bottom. On top of the beef mixture, place the frozen crinkle-cut French fries in a single layer. Don't worry about thawing the fries—they’ll bake up perfectly in the oven.

7. Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the fries. This will create that golden, crispy, cheesy crust that makes this dish irresistible.

8. Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the fries are crispy and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

9. Let It Cool

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve.

How to Cook French Fry Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

To recap the cooking process:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the ground beef and add onions, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, half and half, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Add 1 cup of cheese to the mixture.
5. Layer the beef mixture and fries in a baking dish.
6. Top with the remaining 2 cups of cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
8. Cool and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining Fat: If you’re using ground beef with a higher fat content, make sure to drain the excess fat before adding the soups. This ensures the casserole doesn’t become greasy.
• Undercooking the Beef: Make sure your beef is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. This ensures the dish is safe to eat and flavorful.
• Overcrowding the Fries: Lay the fries in a single layer to ensure they bake up crispy, not soggy.
• Forgetting to Season: Don’t skip the salt and pepper! These basic seasonings make all the difference in enhancing the overall flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A casserole might be a casual dish, but that doesn’t mean it can’t look appetizing when served! Here are some tips for making your French Fry Casserole stand out on the dinner table.

How to Serve French Fry Casserole

• Use a large spoon or spatula to scoop portions onto plates.
• Pair the casserole with a light side salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness.

Presentation Ideas for French Fry Casserole

• Garnish the top with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
• Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more upscale presentation.

French Fry Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply assemble the casserole with fries and cheese, and bake.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Crispy Fries: For extra crispy fries, you can pre-bake them for 10 minutes before adding them to the casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries? Yes, you can! Just make sure to cut them into fry shapes and bake them beforehand so they become crispy.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. You can substitute or mix cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for some extra spice.

3. How long will leftovers last? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

This French Fry Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy fries, cheesy goodness, and savory beef in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this easy-to-make dish will be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Be sure to try it out, and don’t be afraid to get creative with variations!

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