There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about the flavors of a classic cheeseburger and a basket of crispy fries. This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole brings all of that comfort straight to your oven—no drive-thru, no juggling multiple pans, and no complaints at the dinner table.
It’s rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, with seasoned ground beef simmered in a creamy, cheesy sauce and topped with golden baked fries. Everything bakes together into one cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that feels indulgent but is unbelievably easy to make.
If you need a stress-free dinner that everyone will devour, this casserole is about to become a regular in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tastes like a cheeseburger and fries in casserole form
- Easy one-pan, family-friendly dinner
- Minimal prep with simple ingredients
- Perfect for busy weeknights
- Customizable with your favorite burger toppings
- Comfort food that both kids and adults love
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside so it’s ready when the filling is done.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion.
Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the meat is fully browned and the onion is soft and translucent. Drain off any excess grease so the casserole doesn’t turn oily.
Step 3: Build the Cheeseburger Flavor
Stir in the Montreal steak seasoning, ketchup, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
Mix well so the beef is fully coated. This is where the dish really starts to taste like a classic cheeseburger.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Add the condensed cheddar cheese soup and the condensed cream of mushroom soup to the skillet.
Stir until everything is smooth and combined. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–5 minutes so the flavors meld together into a rich, creamy base.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle about 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer to create a gooey, cheesy middle.
Step 6: Add the French Fries
Arrange the frozen French fries in a single, even layer over the cheese. This helps them crisp up nicely while baking.
Step 7: Bake Until Crispy
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the fries are golden and crispy and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
During the last 5–10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the fries and return the dish to the oven so the cheese melts perfectly.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes it easier to scoop.
Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite.
Tips for Best Results
- Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease
- Spread fries in a single layer for maximum crispiness
- Let the casserole rest before serving so it holds together
- Add pickles or chopped onions on top after baking for true burger vibes
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to keep fries crispy
FAQs
Can I make this Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble everything except the fries, refrigerate, then add fries and bake when ready.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works well just season generously.
What kind of fries work best?
Straight-cut or crinkle-cut frozen fries hold up best and crisp evenly.
Can I add toppings like pickles or lettuce?
Yes! Add fresh toppings after baking so they stay crisp and fresh.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
