Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe

This Easy Frito Pie Casserole is a fun and cheesy twist on a classic favorite! Imagine layers of crispy Fritos, hearty chili, and melted cheddar cheese, all baked together in a convenient casserole dish. This recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a potluck with friends, or a game day gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Cheesy: The combination of seasoned ground beef, chili spices, and melted cheddar cheese creates a delicious and satisfying filling that’s perfect for any Frito pie lover.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is always a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy a classic dish.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite chili toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or jalapeños. You can also adjust the spice level to your preference.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Ground beef: The base of the flavorful chili filling. Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• Onion: Diced and adds a savory base and sweetness to the chili.
• Garlic: Minced and adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• Chili powder: Adds a smoky and slightly spicy flavor.
• Onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
• Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chili.
• Ground cumin: Adds a warm and earthy flavor.
• Chipotle powder: Adds a smoky and spicy kick (adjust to your preference).
• Tomato paste: Adds richness and depth of flavor to the chili.
• Tomato sauce: Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
• Beef stock: Adds flavor and moisture to the chili.
• Fritos: Lightly crushed and adds a crispy and salty base and topping.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a cheesy and gooey texture.
• Sour cream: Adds a cool and tangy topping (optional).
• Sliced scallions: Adds a fresh onion flavor and a pop of color as a garnish (optional).

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Easy Frito Pie Casserole

Step 1: Make the Chili

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat with the diced onions. Crumble the beef well and cook until it’s no longer pink and the onions are translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Add the chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cumin, chipotle powder, and tomato paste to the skillet. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until well combined. Pour in the tomato sauce and beef stock, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Layer half of the crushed Fritos in the bottom of the dish, followed by half of the chili and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining Fritos, chili, and cheese.

Step 3: Bake and Serve

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (spray the foil with cooking spray if you’re concerned about sticking) and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted. Uncover the casserole and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and serve immediately with a dollop of sour cream and sliced scallions, if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use lean ground beef: For a healthier option, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the chili powder and chipotle powder. For a spicier chili, add more of these spices or a diced jalapeño.
• Add beans: You can add a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or pinto beans to the chili for extra protein and fiber.
• Customize the cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a Mexican blend.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the chili ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, simply assemble and bake the casserole as directed.

How to Serve

This Easy Frito Pie Casserole is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are some ideas for serving it:

• Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, shredded lettuce, or extra cheese, for people to customize their plates.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Guacamole: Serve with a side of guacamole for dipping and extra flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Frito Pie Casserole is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chips?
While Fritos are classic for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of chips, such as tortilla chips or corn chips.

2. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Omit the ground beef and use a plant-based meat substitute or add more vegetables, such as lentils, black beans, or chopped mushrooms, to the chili.

3. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the ground beef and onions first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining chili ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the flavors have melded and the chili has thickened. Then, assemble and bake the casserole as directed.

4. Can I make this casserole spicier?
Definitely! Add more chili powder, chipotle powder, or a diced jalapeño to the chili.

This Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe is a fun, flavorful, and easy way to enjoy a classic dish. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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