Frito Pie is the kind of comfort food that brings instant smiles and a little nostalgia to anyone lucky enough to have a bite. Imagine crunchy Fritos corn chips layered with savory chili, gooey melted cheese, and a bright sprinkle of your favorite toppings—this is weeknight magic that’s as fun as it is satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a hearty solo treat, Frito Pie is your ticket to a flavorful, fuss-free dish people of all ages adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy to make great Frito Pie—just a handful of simple, classic ingredients that each play their part. Every layer adds something special, from salty crunch to creamy richness, making this dish an instant favorite.

Fritos corn chips: The absolute star, offering that craveable crunch and salty bite that defines Frito Pie.
Chili (canned or homemade): Opt for a hearty, thick chili with robust flavors—meaty or vegetarian, your choice!
Shredded cheddar cheese: This melts into the chili and gets beautifully gooey, adding sharpness and creaminess.
Chopped onions: Sprinkle some raw for pop and punch, or sauté them first for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Sliced jalapeños: For a fiery kick that balances all the richness and adds a splash of greenery.
Sour cream: A creamy, cool factor—just a dollop lightens every bite.
Chopped cilantro: Offers a fresh, herbal note and brightens the finished pie.

How to Make Frito Pie

Step 1: Heat Up the Chili

Start by warming your chili in a saucepan over medium heat. If you’re short on time, canned chili is fantastic, but if you have a favorite homemade recipe, it works perfectly too. The key is to simmer until it’s piping hot and thick, so it won’t make the chips soggy.

Step 2: Layer the Fritos

Grab individual bowls or a large casserole dish, and scatter a generous layer of Fritos on the bottom. Don’t skimp here—this is where all the texture and salty crunch comes from!

Step 3: Spoon on the Chili

Ladle the hot chili evenly over the Fritos. The warmth will start to melt the cheese later, and the bold flavor soaks right into the chips.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese over the chili. If you like yours extra melty, pop the dish into a preheated oven (350°F) for about 5 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbling.

Step 5: Top with Your Favorites

Now comes the fun part! Garnish with chopped onions, jalapeños, dollops of sour cream, and a flurry of fresh cilantro. Each topping adds a burst of color and flavor, making your Frito Pie irresistibly inviting.

How to Serve Frito Pie

Garnishes

Load up your Frito Pie with classic garnishes like diced onions, sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, and a generous spoonful of sour cream. Want a little extra zing? Try a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of hot sauce for a tangy, spicy upgrade.

Side Dishes

Frito Pie is bold and satisfying on its own, but it also plays well with others. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad, charred corn on the cob, or fresh pico de gallo. These light sides balance out the richness of the pie and round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Set up a Frito Pie bar for parties—offer chips, chili, cheese, and all the fixings so everyone can build their own bowl. For a nostalgic twist, serve individual portions right in snack-size Fritos bags; just open the bag, add hot chili and toppings, and hand out forks!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Frito Pie at its best, store leftover chili, cheese, and garnishes separately in airtight containers. Hold off on adding chips until you’re reheating, so they stay deliciously crisp instead of soggy.

Freezing

While Fritos themselves don’t freeze well, you can absolutely freeze the chili in advance! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, label with the date, and stash away for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

Reheating

Reheat the chili on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s steaming hot. When ready to eat, pile fresh Fritos in your bowl, top with reheated chili, cheese, and your favorite garnishes for a just-made taste.

FAQs

Can I use another type of corn chip instead of Fritos?

Absolutely! While classic Fritos give the traditional flavor and crunch, feel free to use other corn chips or even tortilla chips if that’s what you have on hand. Just know the texture will be a little different.

Is Frito Pie spicy?

That’s entirely up to you! The heat level depends on your choice of chili and toppings like jalapeños or hot sauce. If you’re cooking for a mixed crowd, keep the base mild and let everyone add their own spice.

Can I make Frito Pie vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap in your favorite meatless chili—black bean, lentil, or a hearty vegetable chili all work wonders. Top as usual for a satisfying vegetarian option.

What’s the best cheese for Frito Pie?

Sharp cheddar is a classic choice for its meltability and flavor, but Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend can all add something delicious. Feel free to mix and match!

How do I keep the chips from getting soggy?

The secret is to add the hot chili just before serving and never let the assembled pie sit too long. If making ahead, store chips and chili separately and combine only when it’s time to eat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that brings comfort, fun, and a little bit of nostalgia, Frito Pie should absolutely be on your table. It’s quick, endlessly customizable, and perfect for sharing laughter with friends or family over a big, colorful bowl. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love with every crunchy, cheesy, chili-loaded bite!

Frito Pie Recipe