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1
Preheat oven to 375 F. Lightly grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
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2
Use the deepest one you have.
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3
Spread 1/2 of the thawed french fries in the bottom of the dish.
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4
They will not completely cover the bottom.
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5
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef, onion, garlic, salt and pepper over medium high heat.
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6
Remove beef mixture from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
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7
Drain the grease from the skillet.
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8
Return the skillet to the stovetop and melt the butter over medium heat.
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9
Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until bubbly.
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10
Slowly add the chicken broth and milk, bring to a simmer and remove from the heat.
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11
Whisk in the softened cream cheese, sour cream and ranch dressing mix.
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12
Place 1/2 of the beef mixture over the french fries in the prepared dish.
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13
Cover with 1/2 of the cream cheese mixture, followed by 1/2 of the colby jack cheese.
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14
Repeat layers with the french fries, beef, cream cheese mixture and Colby Jack cheese.
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15
Cover the dish with a sheet of foil.
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16
Bake covered at 375 F for 45 minutes.
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17
Uncover and sprinkle with cooked and crumbled bacon.
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18
Return to the oven and continue baking uncovered for 15-20 more minutes.
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19
Serve casserole with desired toppings.
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20
Enjoy!