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Best Game Day Chili Cheese Fries Casserole: Easy 30-Min Recipe

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This quick and easy chili cheese fries casserole is perfect for game day or any crowd. Ready in 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients, it features crispy fries, savory homemade chili, and melted cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 bag (28 oz) frozen shoestring or crinkle-cut fries
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, drained (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet in the oven while it preheats.
  2. Par-bake the frozen fries: Spread the frozen fries in a single layer on the preheated baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until just starting to turn golden and crispy on the edges.
  3. While the fries bake, start the chili: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned (about 5-6 minutes). Leave about a tablespoon of fat in the pan.
  4. Add the onion and garlic: Push the beef to one side, add the diced onion, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir together.
  5. Add the seasonings: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the beef mixture. Stir and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  6. Add the tomatoes, beans, and broth: Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let bubble gently for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Assemble the casserole: Remove the par-baked fries from the oven. Reduce oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Spread the fries evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the chili over the top and spread into an even layer. Sprinkle cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the chili. Scatter pickled jalapeños on top if using.
  8. Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown in spots. For extra browning, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  9. Rest and garnish: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and dollop with sour cream if desired.
  10. Serve immediately: Scoop into bowls or plates and enjoy while hot and gooey.

Notes

Par-baking the fries is essential for crispy texture. Shred your own cheese for best melting. Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving to set layers. For a vegetarian version, replace beef with a second can of beans and use vegetable broth. For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño to the chili or use pepper jack cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili cheese fries casserole, game day recipe, easy casserole, 30-minute meal, comfort food, ground beef recipe, crowd-pleaser

Find it online: https://sagestirs.com/best-game-day-chili-cheese-fries-casserole-easy-30-min-recipe/