Chili-Cheese Steak Fries Casserole
This Chili-Cheese Steak Fries Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and crispy layered dish perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd.
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen steak fries the crispy foundation that holds everything together
- 1 pound ground beef provides a meaty, savory base for the chili layer
- 1 can (15 ounces) chili beans drained, adds heartiness and a subtle sweetness
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce the perfect sauce to bind the chili flavors
- 1 tablespoon chili powder essential for that warm, smoky chili flavor
- 1 teaspoon cumin adds depth and earthiness
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder for a subtle punch of garlicky goodness
- 1 teaspoon onion powder enhances the savory profile
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp and melty, perfect for topping
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese creamy and mild, balances the cheddar
- 0.5 cup diced green onions fresh, crisp garnish to brighten the dish
- Salt and pepper to taste, to bring all flavors into harmony
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking the ground beef to perfection
Instructions
Chili-Cheese Steak Fries Casserole Made Stepwise
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s ready to crisp those steak fries and melt all the cheese evenly once assembled.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Then add the drained chili beans and tomato sauce. Mix well and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
- In your baking dish, spread the frozen steak fries evenly across the bottom. Pour the warm chili-beef mixture evenly over the fries, making sure to cover them completely.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the chili layer. This combo gives you a perfect melt with a balance of sharpness and creaminess that elevates the entire dish.
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the fries are cooked through and crispy on the edges.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle diced green onions on top for a fresh, flavorful finish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- 9x13 inch Baking Dish
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Grater
- Oven mitts
Notes
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef and chili beans to avoid a watery casserole.
- Use frozen steak fries spread evenly to ensure they crisp properly during baking.
- Adjust chili powder and cumin to control the spice level according to your taste.
- Distribute cheese evenly and preheat oven fully for the best melt and browning.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.