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:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook french fries according to package instructions until crispy.
3. In a skillet, brown ground beef and onion until cooked through. Add chili beans, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. 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.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Sprinkle with green onions and serve with optional toppings.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 450
– Fat: 22g
– Carbs: 40g
– Protein: 25g
**Popular questions:**
1. How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
– You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or simply increase the amount of beans in the chili mixture.
2. Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?
– Yes, you can use freshly cut fries instead of frozen ones. Just make sure to cook them until crispy before assembling the casserole.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
– Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
– Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your preferences. Pepper jack or mozzarella would also work well.
5. How spicy is the chili seasoning?
– The spice level can vary depending on the brand of chili seasoning you use. Adjust according to your taste.
6. Can I freeze leftovers?
– Yes, you can freeze any leftovers for later enjoyment. Just make sure to thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
7. How do I store leftovers?
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
8. Can I add more toppings?
– Absolutely! Get creative with your toppings to customize the casserole to your liking.
9. Can I use sweet potato fries instead of regular fries?
– Yes, you can swap out regular fries for sweet potato fries for a different flavor profile.
10. How can I make this dish spicier?
– Add some additional diced jalapenos or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.
**Helpful tips:**
1. Top with a dollop of sour cream before serving for added creaminess.
2. Try mixing in some corn kernels or black beans to bulk up the chili mixture.
3. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips over the cheese before baking.
4. Experiment with different types of chili seasoning for a unique flavor twist.
5. Serve with a side of fresh salsa for an extra burst of freshness.
6. For a kid-friendly version, omit the chili beans and simply use seasoned ground beef instead.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and herbaceous flavor.
8. Make a larger batch and serve as a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.
9. Add a layer of sliced pickled jalapenos for an extra tangy kick.
10. Use a mixture of different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack and Colby, for a more complex flavor profile.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Ensure the fries are spread out in a single layer in the casserole dish for even cooking.
2. Let the chili mixture simmer for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Use high-quality ground beef for a richer and more flavorful chili.
4. Don’t be shy with the cheese – a generous amount will result in a gooey, indulgent casserole.
5. For added smokiness, stir in a tablespoon of chipotle paste into the chili mixture.
6. Layer the fries, chili, and cheese multiple times for a stacked casserole effect.
7. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to set before serving.
8. Use a combination of diced tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick of heat.
9. Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili seasoning used.
10. For a festive twist, serve the casserole topped with crushed red and green tortilla chips for a pop of color.
