There’s something absolutely magical about Frito Pie: crunchy, cheesy, hearty, and a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to bring smiles to the table. This comforting Tex-Mex classic is layered with seasoned beef, flavorful beans, golden corn, gooey cheddar, and those famously crispy Fritos, all baked together to pure, irresistible perfection. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a game day gathering, Frito Pie is easy, nostalgic, and absolutely unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Frito Pie counts — each one layers in flavor, texture, and that signature bold look. These simple, everyday components come together to create something truly greater than the sum of its parts!
- Ground beef (1 pound): The hearty foundation, offering rich, savory flavor and plenty of protein.
- Onion, diced (1 small): Adds sweet and aromatic depth, sautéing beautifully into the mix.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Lends a warm, mouthwatering fragrance that’s essential for a well-rounded base.
- Taco seasoning (1 packet): Instantly boosts color and Tex-Mex zest with the perfect blend of spices.
- Chili beans, undrained (1 can, 15 oz): Provides a saucy, spiced richness (use your favorite with or without beans).
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 can, 10 oz): Brings subtle heat and lively tomato flavor to balance the dish.
- Corn kernels (1 cup, frozen or canned): Pops of natural sweetness and cheery golden color in every bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts into gooey, decadent layers that make Frito Pie unforgettable.
- Fritos corn chips (4 cups): The essential crunchy base and topping that makes this casserole iconic.
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, chopped tomatoes — for a fun and customizable finish!
How to Make Frito Pie
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks. Let it brown nicely — about 5-7 minutes — so you get deep flavor building right from the start. Once browned, drain off any excess fat for a lighter, less greasy casserole.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet next. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and softened. This step builds big, aromatic flavor into the base of your Frito Pie. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen starts to smell incredible!
Step 3: Build the Tex-Mex Sauce
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, then stir in the undrained chili beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and corn. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, so the flavors can meld and the sauce thickens just a bit. This filling should be saucy but not soupy — perfect for marrying with those crunchy Fritos.
Step 4: Layer on the Flavor
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Scatter half of the Fritos on the bottom, then pour your beef and bean mixture evenly over the chips. Sprinkle on all that shredded cheddar, and finish strong with the remaining Fritos right on top. This is what gives Frito Pie its irresistible texture — every bite is a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess.
Step 5: Bake and Enjoy
Pop the dish into your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling at the edges. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving, which makes it easier to slice and ensures every piece holds together. Finish with your favorite toppings, and dig into Tex-Mex bliss!
How to Serve Frito Pie
Garnishes
This is where Frito Pie really shines! Top each serving with a generous dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh green onions, slices of zesty jalapeño, or juicy chopped tomatoes for a blast of freshness. Let everyone build their own masterpiece for maximum fun at the table.
Side Dishes
Frito Pie is super satisfying on its own, but you can round out your meal with a crisp green salad, buttery sweet corn, or a batch of cilantro-lime rice. Even a tangy coleslaw works beautifully to cut the richness and add a little crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or a playful twist, try scooping your Frito Pie into individual bowls or small, single-serve bags of corn chips — the famous “walking taco” style! Or, make a Frito Pie bar at your next get-together, where everyone builds their own bowl with toppings galore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (it’s rare!), store the cooled Frito Pie in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, and the flavors get even more delicious as they meld together.
Freezing
Frito Pie freezes surprisingly well. For best results, freeze the meat and bean mixture separately from the Fritos and cheese. When you’re ready for more, simply thaw, layer with fresh chips and cheese, and bake as directed. This helps keep the Fritos nice and crispy!
Reheating
To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or re-bake leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese and Fritos on top before baking to refresh that signature crunch.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Both ground turkey and chicken work as delicious, lighter alternatives. The taco seasoning and other ingredients ensure your Frito Pie stays just as flavorful.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Frito Pie can be gluten-free, just double-check that your taco seasoning and Fritos are labeled gluten-free, as ingredients can vary by brand.
Can I make Frito Pie vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans. The rest of the recipe stays the same, and the results are still totally crave-worthy.
What’s the best way to keep Fritos from getting soggy?
Bake just before serving, and add the top layer of Fritos right before popping it in the oven. If you’re making in advance, reserve the top layer of chips and add them when reheating for the best crunch.
Can I make Frito Pie ahead for parties?
Definitely! Assemble all the layers except the top Frito layer, cover, and refrigerate. Right before baking, add the final chips and cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never made Frito Pie at home, now’s your moment! It’s the perfect blend of comfort, ease, and big flavor, guaranteed to bring everyone back for seconds. Don’t be surprised if this becomes a forever family favorite — give it a try and savor every crunchy, cheesy bite!
Print
Frito Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Frito Pie is a Tex-Mex inspired dish featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, chili beans, corn, and cheese, all topped with crunchy Fritos and baked to gooey perfection. This hearty and flavorful casserole is a crowd-pleaser for any gathering or weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, undrained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned
For Layering:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups Fritos corn chips
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Green onions
- Jalapeños
- Chopped tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add diced onion and garlic, cook until softened.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in taco seasoning, chili beans, tomatoes, and corn. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Layering: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the Fritos, top with beef mixture, cheese, and remaining Fritos.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Add desired toppings.
Notes
- Use chili without beans or homemade chili if preferred.
- For a spicier version, add hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- This dish can also be served straight from the skillet without baking.
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