Loaded Chili Cheese Fries Casserole
Who doesn’t love a big plate of loaded chili cheese fries? This casserole takes that classic comfort food to a whole new level with layers of crispy fries, zesty chili, and gooey cheese. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a game day gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 bag frozen french fries
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 can chili beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 packet chili seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Optional toppings: sour cream, jalapenos, diced avocado
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook french fries according to package instructions until crispy.
- In a skillet, brown ground beef and onion until cooked through. Add chili beans, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a casserole dish, layer half of the cooked fries, followed by half of the chili mixture, and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Sprinkle with green onions and serve with optional toppings.
Popular questions:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
- How can I make this dish spicier?
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
Yes, you can omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but make sure to dice them and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
You can add additional chili powder, hot sauce, or diced jalapenos to amp up the spiciness.
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Helpful tips:
- Add a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of flavor.
- Top with crushed nacho chips for added crunch.
- Try using different types of cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist.
- Serve with a side of guacamole or salsa for additional toppings.
Expert Secrets:
- For crispier fries, bake them on a wire rack instead of directly on a baking sheet.
- Use a cast iron skillet to cook the ground beef for added flavor.
- Mix in some chopped bacon for a smoky, savory addition to the chili.
- Try adding a dollop of cream cheese to the chili mixture for extra richness.
