Smiley Face Casserole

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven and bake the fries according to package directions.
2. 2
   Remove from the oven and set aside.
3. 3
   While the fries are cooking, heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or saucepan over medium-high heat.
4. 4
   Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring frequently, until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. 5
   Add the meat, carrot, garlic powder, and pepper and cook, breaking up the large pieces, until the meat is no longer pink and the carrot is tender, about 5 minutes.
6. 6
   Drain excess fat and season with salt and additional pepper to taste.
7. 7
   Stir in the soup, milk, and 1 1/2, cups of the cheese (the mixture will seem very thin at this point, but dont worry).
8. 8
   Heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
9. 9
   Remove from the heat.
10. 10
    Set the oven to 425F.
11. 11
    Arrange half the cooked fries in a 9 x 13-inch baking pan or dish.
12. 12
    Top with the meat mixture, the remaining 1/2, cup of cheese, and the remaining potato smiles.
13. 13
    Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake until the mixture is bubbly, about 10 minutes.