Description
This Easy Frito Pie Casserole is a comforting and flavorful Tex-Mex inspired dish that layers seasoned ground beef chili, crunchy Fritos corn chips, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering, it combines hearty beef with zesty spices and crispy corn chips baked to a golden finish. Topped with sour cream and scallions, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare and packed with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Beef Chili Filling
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chipotle powder
- 6 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- ½ cup beef broth
Casserole Assembly
- 9 cups lightly crushed Fritos corn chips
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For Serving
- Sour cream
- Sliced scallions
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onion: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess grease to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Add spices and simmer chili: Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, cumin, chipotle powder, and tomato paste. Cook for about 2 minutes to develop flavors. Then add the tomato sauce and beef broth, stir well, and let the chili simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to thicken and meld the flavors.
- Preheat oven and prepare layering: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Begin layering by spreading half of the lightly crushed Fritos on the bottom, then half of the prepared chili, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining Fritos, chili, and cheese.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 to 30 minutes until the casserole is heated through and the cheese has melted. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes to crisp up the topping and give a nice golden finish to the cheese and chips.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream and sliced scallions for freshness and a creamy contrast to the cheesy, spicy casserole.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase chipotle powder or add diced jalapeños to the chili.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Use mild or sharp cheddar cheese depending on your taste preference.
- Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking to help it set for easier serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best texture.
