From its crunchy top to its gooey, cheesy center, each bite of French Fry Casserole is a testament to comfort food at its finest. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a hearty meal.
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French Fry Casserole
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
French Fry Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 500 g 1 pound ground beef
- 4-5 bacon strips
- 1 medium white onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- ½ bell pepper chopped
- 1 tablespoon pickled jalapenos chopped
- 300 ml 10 oz bechamel sauce
- 500 g 1 pound frozen french fries (for baking)
- cheese sauce to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200C/400F.
- Spread french fries in a one even layer and bake for 10-12 minutes.500 g 1 pound frozen french fries (for baking)
- Meanwhile, heat a large skillet with some vegetable oil. Saute onions and garlic for 5 minutes, add bacon and cook for 5-7 minutes more. Mix in bell peppers and cook for 2-3 more minutes. Add ground beef and cook for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.2 tablespoon vegetable oil, 500 g 1 pound ground beef, 4-5 bacon strips, 1 medium white onion, ½ bell pepper, 2 garlic cloves
- Combine beef and vegetables with bechamel sauce, bring to a boil.300 ml 10 oz bechamel sauce
- Spoon beef in the sauce on top of the fries and drizzle cheese sauce and pickled jalapenos on top.1 tablespoon pickled jalapenos, cheese sauce to taste
- Bake for 20 minutes.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 500 g (1 pound) ground beef
- 4-5 bacon strips
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon pickled jalapenos, chopped
- 300 ml (10 oz) bechamel sauce
- 500 g (1 pound) frozen french fries (for baking)
- cheese sauce to taste
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 200C/400F.
Spread french fries in a one even layer and bake for 10-12 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat a large skillet with some vegetable oil. Saute onions and garlic for 5 minutes, add bacon and cook for 5-7 minutes more. Mix in bell peppers and cook for 2-3 more minutes. Add ground beef and cook for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine beef and vegetables with bechamel sauce, bring to a boil.
Spoon beef in the sauce on top of the fries and drizzle cheese sauce and pickled jalapenos on top.
Bake for 20 minutes.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your French Fry Casserole from great to extraordinary. Here are some ideas that pair perfectly with this comforting dish:
Fresh Green Salad
A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the casserole. Consider adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes for an extra crunch. The acidity from the salad dressing will cut through the fat, making each bite more enjoyable.
Steamed Vegetables
For a healthier option, serve steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans on the side. They provide a nice contrast in texture and add nutritional value to your meal. Lightly season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon juice for a refreshing taste.
Garlic Bread
If you’re looking to keep things indulgent, garlic bread is a fantastic option. The buttery, garlicky flavors complement the savory casserole well. Plus, it’s perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce left on your plate.
⏲️Chef's Tip
A few expert tips can make a world of difference in your cooking. Here are some insights to ensure your French Fry Casserole turns out perfectly:
Use Fresh Ingredients
Whenever possible, opt for fresh ingredients. Freshly chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers can boost the overall flavor profile of your dish. While frozen fries are convenient, ensure they’re of high quality for the best results.
Customize Your Cheese Sauce
The cheese sauce you use can significantly affect the dish’s taste and texture. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist. Mixing cheeses can also add depth to the flavor.
Pre-cook the Bacon
Cooking the bacon beforehand not only enhances its flavor but also ensures it reaches a perfect level of crispiness. This step prevents the bacon from becoming soggy during the final bake.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat and vegetable mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, assemble the casserole and bake according to the instructions. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
What Variations Can I Try?
Feel free to get creative with your French Fry Casserole. You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, use black beans or lentils instead of meat.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 180C/350F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. The fries may lose some of their crispiness but will still taste delicious.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the French Fry Casserole for later use. After assembling the dish, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and bake it in a preheated oven at 180C/350F for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
What Toppings Can I Add?
Adding toppings can further enhance the dish's flavor and texture. Consider topping the casserole with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, or diced tomatoes for a fresh burst of flavor. For those who enjoy a bit more heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or add a dollop of your favorite hot sauce before serving.
Can I Use Homemade French Fries?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use frozen fries, you can make your own. Slice potatoes into fries, coat them lightly with oil, and bake or fry them until crispy before assembling the casserole. Homemade fries can add a personal touch and allow you to control the level of crispiness and seasoning to your liking.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
Need more comfort food? I got you. My collection of casserole recipes offers something for everyone. From classic meatballs to viral chicken bakes, there’s a world of flavors waiting to be discovered. Check out some of my favorites:
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