Description
Frito Pie is a comforting Tex-Mex casserole combining seasoned ground beef, chili beans, and diced tomatoes layered with crunchy Fritos corn chips and melted cheddar cheese. Baked until bubbly and served with optional toppings, this easy 40-minute recipe is perfect for a satisfying family meal.
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Seasonings and Beans: Stir in the taco seasoning, chili beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook the mixture for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
- Layer Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the Fritos corn chips, then spread half of the beef mixture evenly on top. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining Fritos, beef mixture, and cheddar cheese to build a second layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cheese to melt.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot. Add optional toppings such as sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or chopped cilantro to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Drain excess fat after browning beef for a leaner dish.
- Taco seasoning packet usually contains salt, spices, and flavorings—adjust amount if making your own.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.
- For extra crunch, add some Fritos on top before baking uncovered.
- This dish can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days.
