To prepare the Cheeseburger French Fry Bake, you will need the following ingredients:
– For the Bake:
– 2 lbs ground beef (80–85% lean)
– 1 bag (28–32 oz) shoestring French fries
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp yellow mustard
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise or burger sauce
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional)
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
To create your delicious Cheeseburger French Fry Bake, follow these simple steps:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce (if using) until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Step 3: Spread half of the frozen French fries evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Layer half of the cooked beef over the fries, then drizzle with half of the ketchup, mustard, and mayo.
- Step 4: Repeat the layering process with the remaining fries, the remaining beef, and the sauces. Finish with an even sprinkle of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Step 5: Bake the dish uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Step 6: Once baked, optional toppings like chopped pickles and parsley can be added for extra flavor and decoration. Serve hot and enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the layers and store in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just add an additional 10-15 minutes to your bake time if cooking from cold.
2. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative, and add more veggies such as bell peppers or mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian version.
3. Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can! If using fresh fries, ensure they are pre-cooked or par-cooked before layering to ensure they bake properly while the other ingredients cook through.
4. What serving suggestions pair well with this dish?
Serve with a side salad for freshness or coleslaw to add crunch. It can also be paired with extra condiments like extra ketchup, mustard, or a side of pickles.
5. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
The Cheeseburger French Fry Bake is a mouthwatering, satisfying option that brings all your favorite burger flavors together in one dish. With crispy fries layered beneath seasoned ground beef and gooey cheese, it’s a guaranteed hit that will please any crowd. Simple to make and easy to customize, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite for years to come. Enjoy this perfect comfort food with your loved ones and make mealtime special!