Dinner

Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole Recipe

Byluca Carter January 26, 2026January 26, 2026

Introduction

Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole is a fun and satisfying twist on the classic cheeseburger. This dish combines juicy beef, melty cheese, tangy pickles, and crispy French fries baked into a hearty casserole. Perfect for a busy weeknight or family gathering, it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

A close-up top view of a round white bowl filled with a layered dish starting with a base of cooked ground beef mixed with sauce, topped with melted yellow and white cheddar cheese that is gooey and slightly browned. Resting on the cheese is a generous layer of golden brown French fries sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and a dusting of black pepper. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 package (about 20 oz) frozen French fries (crinkle-cut or regular)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or American cheese)
½ cup diced onions (optional)

½ cup pickles, diced (optional)
1 tablespoon ketchup

1 tablespoon mustard
½ cup milk
¼ cup mayonnaise

Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder if using. Cook until fully browned, about 6-7 minutes, then drain excess grease.
Step 2: Stir in ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise into the cooked beef. Add diced onions and pickles if using, then mix well and set aside.

Step 3: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread frozen French fries evenly over the bottom.
Step 4: Pour the beef mixture over the fries, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef and fries, covering the entire dish.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and fries are crispy.
Step 7: Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For crispier fries, pre-bake them slightly before layering.

Mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for varied flavor.
Add crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra texture and taste.
Top with fresh lettuce, tomato, and additional pickles after baking for authentic cheeseburger flavor.

Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or vegetarian ground meat for a lighter or meatless option.
Use sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangier twist.
Swap frozen fries with tater tots for a fun variation.

Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To freeze, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

A round white bowl filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is a smooth base hidden beneath, topped with a thick layer of cooked ground beef that looks dark brown and crumbly, covered by a melted mix of yellow and white cheese that is gooey and stretches slightly over the beef. On top, there is a generous pile of golden French fries, sprinkled lightly with chopped green herbs and some black pepper, giving a fresh color contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and bake as directed.