Frito pie is a nostalgic, no-fuss dish that brings together the satisfying crunch of corn chips, the bold flavors of chili, and the gooey goodness of melted cheese. Perfect for game days, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal, this Tex-Mex-inspired recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Customize it with your favorite toppings for a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Equipment:
- Large skillet
- Baking dish (optional, for layered version)
- Mixing spoon
- Serving bowls
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 packet (or 2 tablespoons) chili seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups Fritos corn chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Salsa or hot sauce
Instructions:
- Cook the Chili:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the chili seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. - Simmer:
Add the diced tomatoes and beans to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. - Assemble the Frito Pie:
- Single-Serving Style: Divide the Fritos among serving bowls. Spoon the chili over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Baking Dish Style: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of Fritos in a baking dish, top with chili, and sprinkle with cheese. Repeat the layers and bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Toppings:
Garnish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, or green onions for added flavor and color.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve in individual bowls with a sprinkle of cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for a polished look.
- For a fun twist, serve directly in mini Frito bags, adding chili and toppings on top for a “walking taco” experience.
- Place the assembled dish in the center of the table with a variety of toppings for a DIY bar.
Tips:
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Make the chili a day ahead to enhance its flavor and save time.
- Add diced green chiles or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Frito pie is a delightful combination of crunchy, savory, and cheesy goodness that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Whether served as a hearty snack or a satisfying meal, this classic dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Dig in and savor the comforting flavors of this Tex-Mex favorite!
Frito Pie Recipe
A classic Frito pie recipe made with layers of crunchy Fritos, hearty chili, and gooey melted cheese. The ultimate comfort food for any occasion!
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish (optional, for layered version)
- Mixing spoon
- Serving bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 can 15 oz kidney or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 packet or 2 tablespoons chili seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin optional
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups Fritos corn chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Salsa or hot sauce
Instructions
- Cook the Chili:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the chili seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer:
- Add the diced tomatoes and beans to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Frito Pie:
- Single-Serving Style: Divide the Fritos among serving bowls. Spoon the chili over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Baking Dish Style: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of Fritos in a baking dish, top with chili, and sprinkle with cheese. Repeat the layers and bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Toppings:
- Garnish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, or green onions for added flavor and color.
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