Description
Frito Pie is a hearty and comforting Tex-Mex casserole featuring layers of crunchy Fritos corn chips, seasoned ground beef with chili beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and melted sharp cheddar cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, topped with optional fresh garnishes like sour cream, jalapeños, and cilantro.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 bag (9.25 oz) Fritos corn chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s fully heated by the time your assembled Frito Pie is ready to bake.
- Cook the beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef together with the diced onion until the beef is fully browned and the onions have softened. Drain any excess fat for a leaner dish.
- Add seasoning and beans: Stir in the taco seasoning packet, chili beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
- Layer the dish: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading half of the Fritos corn chips evenly on the bottom. Next, add half of the beef mixture over the chips, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat layering: Add another layer of the remaining Fritos, followed by the rest of the beef mixture and the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve with toppings: Remove from oven and serve hot, topped with your choice of sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro to add fresh flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken to lighten the dish.
- Try adding black beans or corn for extra veggie goodness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- To make it gluten-free, verify taco seasoning and Fritos are labeled gluten-free.
