Name: Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 can condensed cheddar cheese soup; 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 bag (about 20 oz) frozen French fries

This Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that layers all the best parts of a cheeseburger with crispy French fries, all baked into one bubbling casserole. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this casserole is to put together—it’s basically everything I enjoy about a cheeseburger and fries, all in one pan. It’s budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly customizable. I can prep it ahead and just pop it in the oven when I’m ready. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ground beef and frozen fries from the freezer.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion
Condensed cheddar cheese soup
Condensed cream of mushroom soup
Ketchup
Mustard
Salt and pepper
Shredded cheddar cheese
Frozen French fries

directions

I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a skillet, I brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink, then drain any excess grease.
I stir in the cheddar cheese soup, mushroom soup, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Then I spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top it with shredded cheese.
I arrange the frozen French fries in a single layer over the top.
I bake the casserole uncovered for about 45-50 minutes, or until the fries are golden and crispy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people and takes approximately 1 hour to make from start to finish—about 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of baking.

Variations

I sometimes switch things up by using tater tots instead of French fries for a slightly different texture. For a spicy kick, I add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. If I want a leaner option, ground turkey works just as well. I’ve also tried mixing in cooked bacon or pickles for a fun twist on the classic cheeseburger flavor.

storage/reheating

To store leftovers, I cover the casserole tightly and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, I use the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes to keep the fries crispy, though the microwave works fine in a pinch—just a couple of minutes on high.

FAQs

What kind of French fries work best for this casserole?

I usually go for straight-cut frozen fries, but crinkle-cut or waffle fries work too. The key is to use fries that will crisp up nicely in the oven.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the beef mixture and layer the casserole up to a day in advance. I just cover and refrigerate it, then add the fries and bake when I’m ready.

Can I freeze Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole?

Absolutely. I recommend freezing it before baking. I assemble the casserole (without the fries), cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. I add the fries right before baking.

What cheese can I use instead of cheddar?

I like sharp cheddar for flavor, but I’ve used mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend with great results.

How do I make this casserole vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, I swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils, and make sure the soups I use are meat-free.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is one of those cozy, filling dishes I keep coming back to. It’s a no-fuss meal that tastes like a fast food favorite but is made with simple ingredients at home. Whether I’m feeding family or friends, it’s always a hit on the table.