Can I use any type of frozen fries for this casserole?

Yes, you can! While crinkle-cut fries hold the sauce well, straight-cut, waffle, or even sweet potato fries can be used. Adjust baking time slightly if your chosen fries are thicker or thinner.

What are the best cheese choices for a cheesy fries casserole?

For optimal flavor and melt, a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack is fantastic. Other great options include Colby, pepper jack for a kick, or a classic Velveeta for an ultra-creamy sauce.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. You might also consider par-baking the fries first to help maintain crispness.

How can I make this Cheesy Fries Casserole a complete main dish?

Easily! Browned ground beef or turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked sausage, or even chopped ham can be stirred into the cheese sauce before pouring it over the fries. This adds protein and makes it a hearty meal.

Ultimate Cheesy Fries Casserole: Your New Favorite Comfort Food

Name: Ultimate Cheesy Fries Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (32 ounce) bag frozen crinkle-cut fries; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided; 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian); 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits; 2 green onions, sliced; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Description

A deliciously easy and incredibly satisfying casserole featuring crispy fries baked with a creamy, cheesy sauce and your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (32 ounce) bag frozen crinkle-cut fries
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
2 green onions, sliced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Spread the frozen fries evenly in the prepared baking dish, ideally in a single layer for best crispness.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Pour the soup mixture evenly over the frozen fries, making sure to coat them well.
Step 5: Sprinkle 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese over the soup mixture, covering the fries.
Step 6: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, the cheese is melted and lightly golden, and the fries are tender. If desired, sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Step 7: Remove from oven and let it stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with bacon bits and sliced green onions for a fresh finish.

Notes

For extra crispy fries, par-bake them on a separate sheet for 10-15 minutes before adding to the casserole dish. Feel free to add cooked ground beef, chicken, or sausage to the cheese mixture for a more substantial meal. Experiment with different cheese blends like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for varied flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 410 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 750mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 70mg