Frito Pie – Clara quick dinners

Frito Pie is a classic American comfort food that layers crunchy corn chips with savory chili and melty cheese, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s as fun to eat as it is easy to make. Popular at state fairs, potlucks, and tailgates, this Tex-Mex favorite delivers big flavor with minimal effort—perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Uses simple ingredients and comes together in about 30 minutes.
• Crowd-pleaser – A hit with kids and adults alike.
• One-pan option – Minimal cleanup and straightforward prep.
• Customizable – Top it off with your favorite fixings.
• Comfort food perfection – Crunchy, cheesy, and chili-loaded.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fritos corn chips
• Ground beef
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Canned diced tomatoes or tomato sauce
• Canned chili beans or pinto beans (optional)
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Optional toppings: sour cream, jalapeños, green onions, cilantro, hot sauce

Directions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes.
3. Stir in tomatoes (or sauce) and beans if using. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to thicken.
4. In a baking dish, layer half the Fritos, then spoon the chili mixture over the chips.
5. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and top with remaining Fritos.
6. Bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian – Use black beans or lentils in place of meat.
• Frito Pie in a Bag – Serve chili and toppings directly in individual snack-size Frito bags for a fun, portable twist.
• Spicy Kick – Add diced green chiles or jalapeños to the chili.
• Creamy Frito Pie – Add a scoop of sour cream or a cheese sauce layer for extra richness.
• Southwest Style – Add corn, bell peppers, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven to keep chips crispy, or microwave in short bursts (note: chips will soften).
• Note: If making ahead, store chips separately and add before baking to maintain crunch.

FAQs

What kind of chips are best for Frito Pie?

Classic Fritos corn chips are best, but any sturdy corn chip will work.

Can I use store-bought chili?

Yes, store-bought chili is a convenient option and works well in this recipe.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely—just swap the beef for beans, lentils, or a meat substitute.

How do I make it spicier?

Add hot sauce, crushed red pepper, or fresh jalapeños to the chili.

Can I freeze Frito Pie?

It’s not ideal due to the chips becoming soggy when thawed and reheated.

What’s the difference between Frito Pie and chili cheese nachos?

Frito Pie uses corn chips and baked chili/cheese layers, while nachos are typically tortilla chips with toppings and are not baked in the same way.

Do I have to bake it?

No—if you’re short on time, simply assemble it hot and serve immediately.

Can I add toppings?

Yes! Popular toppings include sour cream, guacamole, diced onions, and cilantro.

What protein alternatives can I use?

Try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.

Can I serve this as an appetizer?

Yes, use mini bowls or serve Frito Pie in snack-sized chip bags for parties.

Conclusion

Frito Pie is the ultimate comfort food: easy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick family dinner or serving it at your next party, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. With endless variations and bold, hearty ingredients, Frito Pie earns its spot as a beloved American classic.

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