This cheeseburger French fry casserole is one of my favorite comfort meals when I want something filling, warm, and easy to put together. I like how it turns classic cheeseburger flavors into a single baked dish with seasoned beef, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and crispy fries all layered together. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it uses basic ingredients and comes together quickly. I get all the flavors of a cheeseburger without standing over a grill, and the oven does most of the work. It’s a great choice for busy evenings, and it always feels comforting and familiar.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup milk
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of cheddar soup or cream of mushroom soup
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 bag (about 28 oz) frozen French fries
Directions
I begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, I cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. I drain off any excess grease, then season the meat with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
In a separate bowl, I mix the soup and milk until smooth. I stir this mixture into the cooked beef until everything is well combined. I spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased baking dish and sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheese over the top.
I arrange the frozen French fries in an even layer on top and place the dish in the oven. I bake it uncovered for about 30 minutes, then remove it and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the fries. I return it to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the fries are golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 6 servings from this casserole. Preparation takes around 15 minutes, and the total cooking time is about 45 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
I sometimes mix a little ketchup or mustard into the beef for a stronger cheeseburger flavor. When I want extra texture, I add diced pickles or bell peppers to the meat mixture. I also like using a mix of cheeses, such as cheddar and mozzarella, for a slightly different melt and taste.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, I prefer using the oven so the fries stay crispy, but the microwave works well when I need something quick.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
I sometimes use ground turkey or ground chicken, and I season it well to keep the flavor rich.
Do I need to thaw the French fries first?
I always use the fries straight from the freezer so they stay crispy while baking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
I like preparing the beef mixture in advance and refrigerating it, then adding the fries and cheese right before baking.
What size baking dish works best?
I usually use a 9×13-inch baking dish so everything cooks evenly.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
I can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free condensed soup and checking that the fries are gluten-free.
Conclusion
This cheeseburger French fry casserole is a simple, comforting meal I like to make when I want something hearty and easy. It combines familiar flavors into one dish that’s filling, flexible, and always satisfying straight from the oven.
This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole combines classic cheeseburger flavors in an easy, baked comfort dish featuring seasoned beef, creamy sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy French fries.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup milk
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of cheddar soup or cream of mushroom soup
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 bag (about 28 oz) frozen French fries
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess grease.
Season the beef with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
In a separate bowl, mix the soup and milk until smooth.
Stir the soup mixture into the cooked beef until well combined.
Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
Arrange frozen French fries evenly on top.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
Remove from oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the fries.
Return to oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the fries are golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
Use fries straight from the freezer for a crispier texture.
Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef.
Add ketchup, mustard, or pickles to enhance cheeseburger flavor.
Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Use gluten-free soup and fries for a gluten-free version.