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French Fry Casserole with Cheese and Ground Beef

60 min 6 servings Easy
The French fry casserole is a comforting and indulgent dish perfect for families or gatherings. Combining crispy French fries with savoury ground beef and melted cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings together the best of textures and flavours. This version of the French fry casserole is designed to be both quick and flavourful. By using frozen fries and simple ingredients, it allows for maximum taste with minimal effort. Ideal for busy weeknights or as a hearty dish for the weekend, it's sure to become a family favourite.

Instructions

1

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

2

Cook the beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Pro tip: Drain excess fat for a lighter dish.

3

Season the beef

Add salt, pepper, and oregano to the beef mixture. Stir in the beef broth and let simmer for 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning to taste.

4

Assemble the casserole

In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the frozen French fries. Spoon the beef mixture over the fries, then top with the remaining fries.

5

Add cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Pro tip: Use a mix of cheeses for extra flavour.

6

Bake the casserole

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the fries are golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Pro tip: Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to set the layers.

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Tips & Tricks

  • Use frozen French fries to save time on prep work.
  • For extra flavour, add your favourite herbs to the beef mixture.
  • Let the casserole rest before serving for easier slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a French fry casserole?

A French fry casserole is a layered dish made with French fries, ground beef, cheese, and other seasonings baked until crispy and bubbling.

How long does it take to make French fry casserole?

The total time to make French fry casserole is about 60 minutes, including preparation, cooking, and resting time.

Can I use fresh potatoes for French fry casserole?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but they should be cut into fry shapes and pre-cooked until slightly crispy before adding to the casserole.

How do I store leftover French fry casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Can French fry casserole be frozen?

While it's possible to freeze French fry casserole, the texture of the fries may change. For best results, freeze before baking and bake directly from frozen, adding additional baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this French fry casserole with a side of salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. It's also great paired with a simple tomato sauce or gravy for added depth. To make ahead, assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispy texture of the fries.

Nutrition per serving

550

Calories

28g

Protein

28g

Fat

45g

Carbs