Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs ground beef (80–85% lean)
- 1 bag (about 28–32 oz) frozen shoestring French fries
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for flavor)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar blend)
Burger Sauce Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Optional Garnishes:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Pickle slices
- Green onions
Instructions
- Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 7–8 minutes. Break up the meat as it cooks. Drain excess grease. Add onion and garlic, cooking 2–3 more minutes until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Set aside.
- Prepare the French fries: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the frozen French fries into an even layer and bake for 15 minutes, just until starting to crisp (they’ll finish cooking in the casserole).
- Assemble the casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom. Top with half of the cheese. Arrange the pre-baked fries in a single layer over the beef. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the fries.
- Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly and the fries are golden brown.
- Make the burger sauce: While the casserole bakes, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve: Remove casserole from the oven. Drizzle with burger sauce and top with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, or green onions if desired. Serve hot for the ultimate cheeseburger-style comfort food.
Notes
- This recipe is a great way to use up ingredients you might already have on hand.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
Keywords: casserole, cheeseburger, fries, beef