If you’re in the mood for ultimate comfort food, look no further than Crock Pot Frito Pie. This set-it-and-forget-it classic features layers of savory chili, melty cheddar cheese, and crunchy corn chips, coming together in a symphony of flavors and textures. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or an easy weeknight dinner, this dish is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser, delivering that irresistible Tex-Mex vibe with very little effort. You’ll fall in love with how Crock Pot Frito Pie blends convenience and pure deliciousness in every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Crock Pot Frito Pie lies in its simple, affordable ingredients—each one plays an important role in building layers of hearty flavor, color, and satisfying crunch. Make sure to select fresh and quality basics for the ultimate taste!
- Ground beef (1 lb): Provides the rich, savory base that makes the chili deeply satisfying—feel free to substitute with turkey or meatless crumbles for a lighter version.
- Small onion, diced: Adds subtle sweetness and a touch of crunch, blending perfectly into the hearty chili mixture.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Brings a warm aromatic foundation that brightens up the flavors.
- Chili beans in sauce (15 oz can, undrained): Beans add protein, creaminess, and a boost of chili flavor that thickens the finished dish.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (15 oz can): These bring tangy depth and a little heat, making every bite more exciting.
- Tomato sauce (8 oz can): Unifies the chili with a smooth, rich tomato backdrop.
- Chili powder (2 tbsp): This Tex-Mex staple adds signature warmth and just the right amount of spice.
- Ground cumin (1 tsp): Infuses gentle earthiness that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Smoked paprika (½ tsp): Offers a subtle smoky undertone that pairs dreamily with the beef and beans.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances every ingredient, pulling the flavors together.
- Black pepper (¼ tsp): For a hint of sharpness that perks up the chili.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts luxuriously over the hot chili and Fritos, making each spoonful cheesy and gooey.
- Corn chips, like Fritos (9.25 oz bag): The crunchy element that sets Frito pie apart—layer these generously under or over your chili.
- Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, chopped cilantro: Add a fresh, tangy, or spicy twist, letting you customize each bowl to perfection.
How to Make Crock Pot Frito Pie
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef and diced onion. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent—this should take about 7 to 8 minutes. Not only does this step lock in those meaty, caramelized flavors, but it also ensures your chili has the right texture. Once browned, toss in the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about a minute more—then drain off any excess grease to keep your chili from getting oily.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Time to let the slow cooker do its thing! Transfer the cooked beef mixture into your Crock Pot. Immediately add the chili beans (don’t drain them!), diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well so the flavors begin to mingle.
Step 3: Slow Cook for Flavorful Results
Cover your Crock Pot, then set it to low and cook for 4 to 6 hours—or use the high setting for 2 to 3 hours if you need dinner on the table faster. As the chili simmers, all those zesty spices and aromatics meld together, creating an irresistibly rich and hearty filling for your Frito pie. If you want an even creamier chili, sprinkle in half of the shredded cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking and stir gently.
Step 4: Serve It Up with Crunch and Cheese
When it’s time to eat, build your Crock Pot Frito Pie by spooning a generous helping of chili over a pile of crunchy Fritos in each bowl. Shower the top with the remaining cheddar cheese so it melts into the hot chili. This is where things go from cozy to absolutely crave-worthy—don’t be shy with the toppings!
How to Serve Crock Pot Frito Pie
Garnishes
The best thing about Crock Pot Frito Pie is piling on the garnishes to match your mood. Classic choices include a dollop of tangy sour cream, a flurry of sliced green onions, fresh chopped cilantro, or zingy jalapeño rounds for a kick. The combination of warm chili and cool toppings is unbeatable!
Side Dishes
Although Crock Pot Frito Pie is a meal in itself, it pairs delightfully with simple sides. Try serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette, fresh guacamole, or a cup of sweet corn. These light sides balance out the rich, cheesy chili and refresh your palate between hearty bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, serve your Frito pie “walking taco” style: layer the chili, cheese, and toppings right inside single-serve corn chip bags for fun, mess-free eating. You can also assemble bite-sized appetizers by scooping the chili into mini tortilla cups or arrange a build-your-own Frito Pie bar so everyone can customize their bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the chili and chips separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them apart preserves the crispness of the corn chips and prevents sogginess, so every reheated serving tastes just as fresh as the first.
Freezing
The chili portion of Crock Pot Frito Pie freezes beautifully—simply pack cooled chili into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge and fix a quick Frito pie any night of the week!
Reheating
To reheat chili, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or pop it in the microwave until piping hot. Avoid reheating the Fritos; instead, serve them fresh straight from the bag for that essential crunch. Top with cheese and your favorite garnishes, and enjoy a practically effortless second meal.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or a vegetarian alternative instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey cooks up just as flavorful and pairs wonderfully with the Tex-Mex seasonings, while meatless crumbles create a tasty vegetarian version. Just follow the same browning instructions and continue as directed.
Do I need to drain the canned chili beans?
No, keep the beans’ sauce! The juices add a creamy consistency and contribute a boost of chili spice that enhances the overall dish.
Will the Fritos get soggy in the slow cooker?
Don’t add the corn chips to the Crock Pot—the magic happens when you serve the hot chili over the chips just before eating. This way, you get the bold crunch in every bite without sogginess.
Can I cook Crock Pot Frito Pie on the stovetop instead?
Yes, you can! After browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, simmer everything together in a large pot for about 30–40 minutes. The flavors will develop nicely, but the slow cooker does provide a uniquely deep, melded taste.
How do I make it spicier?
For extra kick, add minced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even hotter diced green chilies to the chili mixture. Spice it up to your preference—this dish is flexible!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never made Crock Pot Frito Pie before, you’re in for a truly comforting treat. It’s one of those easy, foolproof recipes that delivers big satisfaction with minimal effort. Gather your favorite toppings, invite some friends or family, and let this cozy, savory classic bring big smiles to your table!
Print
Crock Pot Frito Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low)
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Crock Pot Frito Pie is a delicious twist on traditional chili, combining flavorful ground beef, beans, and spices, topped with crunchy corn chips and melted cheese. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Main Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can chili beans in sauce (undrained)
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Additional:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bag (9.25 oz) corn chips (like Fritos)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned, about 7–8 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Prepare Chili: Transfer beef mixture to slow cooker. Add beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, spices. Cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
- Serve: Spoon chili over a bed of Fritos, top with cheese, and add desired toppings.
Notes
- You can stir some cheese into the chili for a creamier texture.
- Ground turkey or meatless crumbles can be used as beef substitutes.
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