Cheeseburger French Fry Bake – The Ultimate Comfort Food You Didn’t Know You Needed!

 

Looking for a cozy, satisfying, family-friendly dinner that combines the flavors of a cheeseburger and crispy fries in one irresistible bake? This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is layered with juicy seasoned beef, melted cheddar cheese, crispy golden fries, and a tangy burger-style sauce that brings it all together. It’s easy to prepare, kid-approved, and great for busy weeknights!

 Ingredients:

For the Beef Layer:

• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80-85% lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Special Burger Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• 1 tsp finely chopped dill pickles or relish
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• Pinch of black pepper

For the Topping:

• 1 bag frozen shoestring French fries (about 26 oz or 750g)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese blend you like)
• Green onions for garnish (optional)
• Pickle slices for topping (optional)

 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.

Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in ketchup, mustard, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13″ baking dish.

2. Make the Burger Sauce:

In a small bowl, mix together the mayo, ketchup, mustard, pickles, onion powder, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Spread half of this sauce over the beef layer in the baking dish.

3. Add the Fries:

Spread the frozen fries evenly over the beef and sauce layer. Do not thaw them.

4. Bake:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the dish uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the fries are crispy and golden brown.

Remove from oven, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, and return to oven for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve:

Once baked, drizzle the remaining burger sauce on top. Garnish with chopped green onions and pickle slices if desired. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, beefy, crispy bite!

 Pro Tips:

• Add shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes on top after baking for a true cheeseburger-in-a-bowl experience.
• Want it spicy? Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef.
• Swap fries with tater tots for a fun variation.

 Why This Recipe Works:

Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved
Great way to use frozen fries or leftover ground beef
One pan, minimal cleanup
Hearty, filling, and perfect for game nights, potlucks, or weeknight meals

 Final Thoughts:

This Cheeseburger French Fry Bake is more than just a meal – it’s an experience! Every layer adds flavor and comfort, making it a go-to dish for busy nights or indulgent weekends. Make it once, and you’ll be making it again and again!