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:
- 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.
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use homemade chili instead of canned?
- Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
- Q: How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can substitute homemade chili for the canned chili in this recipe for a more personalized touch. Just make sure it has a similar consistency to canned chili.
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your preferences. Pepper jack or mozzarella can be great alternatives.
A: You can easily swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or extra beans to make this chili cheese fries casserole vegetarian-friendly.
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just adjust baking time as needed.
Helpful tips:
- 1. Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat.
- 2. Top with crushed tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.
- 3. Customize with your favorite toppings like guacamole, salsa, or even pickled jalapenos.
- 4. For a healthier version, use sweet potato fries or a mix of sweet potato and regular fries.
Expert Secrets:
- 1. Layering the ingredients ensures that each bite is filled with chili, cheese, and fries for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- 2. Don’t skimp on the cheese – the gooey melted cheddar is what brings everything together in this casserole.
- 3. Make sure your chili is well-seasoned to add depth of flavor to the dish.