Description
A rich, layered casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, crisp-tender frozen fries, and melting cheddar, topped with a savory sauce and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12–16 oz (about 4 cups) frozen french fries
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar, grated
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped, for finishing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat. Season lightly with salt and pepper, cooking until beef is browned and onions are translucent, about 6–8 minutes.
- Add garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and Dijon. Cook for 1–2 minutes, then deglaze with a splash of water or milk.
- In a small bowl, whisk together milk and beaten egg, tempering by stirring in a spoonful of the hot beef mixture then returning it all to the skillet. Simmer until thickened.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared dish, then layer frozen fries on top. Add half the cheddar between the layers.
- Drizzle melted butter over fries and bake for 20–25 minutes until fries are golden and the sauce is bubbling.
- Sprinkle remaining cheddar on top and return to oven for an additional 3–5 minutes until cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving.
Notes
Use a high-heat sear on the beef for deep flavors. Fresh-cut fries can be used; par-bake them until just tender before topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg