French Fry Casserole

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven.
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. Cook the ground meat:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or ground turkey over medium-high heat until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté onions and garlic:
   • Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat. Sauté for a few minutes until the onions become translucent.
4. Prepare the Casserole Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
   • Add the cooked meat mixture to the bowl and stir until everything is well combined.
5. Layer the Casserole:
   • Spread the frozen French fries evenly in the greased baking dish.
   • Pour the casserole filling over the fries, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
6. Bake:
   • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the french fries are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
7. Serve and Garnish:
   • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Cook’s Notes:

• Customize with Toppings: Get creative by adding your favorite toppings before baking. Sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, or even crumbled bacon can take this casserole to the next level.
• Vegetarian Version: To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground meat with plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables.

The French Fry Casserole is a delectable fusion of crispy and creamy, making it a delightful treat for all ages. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every cheesy, potato-filled bite!