Frito Pie Casserole

Frito Pie Casserole is a delicious and easy dish that combines the joy of crunchy corn chips with the heartiness of a beefy chili filling. It’s a great meal for families, gatherings, or any occasion when you want something comforting and satisfying. With layers of Fritos, ground beef, cheese, and spices, this recipe brings a smile to everyone’s face.

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Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for several reasons. First, it’s quick to make, ready in just about 40 minutes! Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser with its blend of flavors and textures. Lastly, you can customize it easily. Whether you want it mild or spicy, you can adjust the salsa and add toppings like jalapeños and green onions. It’s a fun and flavorful meal that requires minimal effort.

How to Make Frito Pie Casserole

Ingredients:

1 lb lean ground beef
2 cups Fritos corn chips
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 can (15 oz) chili beans, drained
1 cup salsa (mild or spicy)
1 cup sour cream
Optional: sliced jalapeños and chopped green onions for topping

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess grease.
Stir in the chili beans and salsa; let simmer for about 5 minutes.
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the Fritos, half of the beef mixture, followed by half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
Let cool slightly before serving with sour cream, jalapeños, and green onions on top.

How to Serve Frito Pie Casserole

Serve the Frito Pie Casserole warm, right out of the oven. Place it on the table with bowls of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and chopped green onions on the side, so everyone can top their serving to suit their taste. This adds a fun interactive element to the meal.

How to Store Frito Pie Casserole

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven until warmed through. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Frito Pie Casserole

Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier. You can also substitute it with ground turkey or veggie crumbles for a lighter option.
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite blend.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version of this casserole by omitting the ground beef and using black beans or lentils instead. You can add more vegetables like diced tomatoes and bell peppers to keep it hearty.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of chips instead of Fritos?
Yes, you can try using tortilla chips, potato chips, or any crunchy snack you like!

2. Is Frito Pie Casserole spicy?
It depends on the salsa you choose to use. You can use mild salsa for a less spicy flavor or spicy salsa if you enjoy heat.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Frito Pie Casserole