French Fry Casserole Recipe: Cheesy Comfort Food Delight

Who doesn’t love French fries? This French Fry Casserole Recipe takes the beloved crispy snack and turns it into a hearty, comforting casserole.

Packed with ground beef, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is the perfect choice for family dinners or potlucks.

It’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table.

What Is French Fry Casserole?

French Fry Casserole combines the savory flavors of a ground beef casserole with the crispy, golden goodness of French fries.

It features seasoned ground beef layered with a creamy base, topped with fries and melted cheese, creating the ultimate comfort food experience.

Think of it as a fun and delicious twist on classic casseroles, perfect for any casual meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This French Fry Casserole Recipe

This recipe serves 6–8.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen French fries
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)

Optional Additions:

• 1 cup frozen peas or corn (for added veggies)
• ½ cup diced bell peppers (for extra crunch and color)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky flavor)
• ½ cup crumbled cooked bacon (for a savory boost)

Substitutions and Variations

• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and cheese substitutes.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils.
• Different Fries: Try waffle fries, sweet potato fries, or crinkle-cut fries for a fun twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make French Fry Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Prepare the Sauce

• In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

4. Assemble the Casserole

• Spread the cooked ground beef evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the beef, spreading it evenly.
• Arrange the frozen French fries on top of the sauce layer, covering the entire dish.

5. Bake

• Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the fries are golden and crispy.

6. Add Cheese

• Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Drain Step: Always drain excess fat from the cooked ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Undercooking the Fries: Ensure the fries are baked long enough to become golden and crispy.
• Overloading with Cheese: Use the right amount of cheese to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
• Skipping Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning before baking to ensure balanced flavors.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair this casserole with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Add Dipping Sauces: Offer ranch, ketchup, or hot sauce on the side for dipping.
• Family-Style Presentation: Serve directly from the baking dish for a casual, comforting vibe.

Expert Tips

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole without baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
• Reheat Leftovers: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to maintain the fries’ crispiness.
• Layer Strategically: Keep the fries on top to ensure they stay crispy while the casserole bakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?
Yes! Freshly cut fries work well, but they may need slightly less baking time.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Assemble without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

What’s the best way to get crispy fries?
Arrange the fries in a single layer and avoid overcrowding to ensure even crisping.

Conclusion

This French Fry Casserole Recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a recipe that delivers big on flavor and comfort.

Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite!