You got it — here’s a wonderful Chef Ed’s French Fries Casserole, rich with flavor, description, and tips for making it your own. Let’s dig into this comfort food bomb.

Chef Ed’s Smothered French Fries Casserole

If you’re looking for a meal that’s equal parts indulgent and satisfying, Chef Ed’s Smothered French Fries Casserole is your ticket to cheesy, beefy heaven. Imagine golden fries layered with juicy ground beef, aromatic onions and garlic, smothered under a blanket of melted sharp cheddar cheese. This dish delivers bold flavor in every bite — no fluff, just crave-worthy comfort food.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or feeding a hungry crowd, this casserole comes together with simple, everyday ingredients and packs a serious punch.

Ingredients

  • 1 (28 oz) bag of frozen French fries (crinkle cut, waffle, or steak fries work great)
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (or more if you’re feeling wild)
  • 1 cup sour cream (optional, for extra richness)
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
  • Pickled jalapeños (optional, for kick)
  • Hot sauce or ranch dressing (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Bake the Fries

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the frozen fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet and bake according to the package instructions, usually around 20 to 25 minutes. You want them crispy on the edges but not overcooked — they’ll bake again in the casserole, so just get them golden and firm. Set aside once done.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture

While the fries are in the oven, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. Add in the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for one minute more.

Now season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. If you want a richer, creamy middle layer, stir in the sour cream at this point. This makes the casserole extra luscious, almost like a cheesy loaded dip.

3. Assemble the Casserole

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, begin layering. Start with half the fries as your base. Next, spoon the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the fries. Sprinkle one cup of cheddar cheese on top. Add the remaining fries in a loose layer, then top everything with the remaining cheese. Be generous — this is not the time to go light on cheese.

4. Bake and Finish

Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled casserole uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly golden around the edges. For an extra crispy cheese topping, broil it for 2 minutes at the end — just watch it closely.

5. Serve It Up

Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or pickled jalapeños for brightness and zing. Serve hot with sour cream, ranch, or your favorite hot sauce on the side.

Tips & Variations

  • Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning to the beef and layer in black beans or corn.
  • Breakfast Remix: Replace beef with sausage and top with scrambled eggs for a brunch casserole.
  • Loaded Style: Top with crispy bacon bits and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms in place of ground beef.

Whether you’re feeding a family or just feeding your soul, this casserole hits the spot every time. It’s dirty, it’s cheesy, and Chef Ed would tell you: don’t you dare use low-fat cheese.