Classic Frito Pie: Easy Chili & Cheese Casserole Recipe (Print Version)
Frito Pie is a hearty, savory dish featuring crunchy corn chips, seasoned ground beef chili, and melted cheese. A quick and satisfying meal for any day.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Chili Base
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb 90/10 lean ground beef
03 -
1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
04 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
2 tbsp chili powder
06 -
1 tsp ground cumin
07 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
08 -
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
09 -
1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
10 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
11 -
1/2 cup beef broth
12 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
→ The Signature Crunch
13 -
1 (9 oz) bag Fritos Corn Chips
→ Cool & Creamy Toppings
14 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
15 -
1/2 cup sour cream
16 -
1/4 cup sliced green onions, for garnish
17 -
1/4 cup sliced pickled jalapeños, for garnish (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This prepares your vessel for the delicious Classic Frito Pie Recipe, ensuring easy cleanup and even cooking.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Brown 1 lb 90/10 lean ground beef, breaking it up. Drain excess fat. Add 1 medium yellow onion, chopped, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
03 -
Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly. This builds the flavor foundation for your Classic Frito Pie Recipe.
04 -
Pour in 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, and 1/2 cup beef broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
05 -
Spread half of the 1 (9 oz) bag Fritos Corn Chips evenly in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the entire chili mixture over the Fritos. Top with 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, then layer the remaining Fritos.
06 -
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chili is heated through. This final bake brings together the Classic Frito Pie Recipe.
07 -
Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with dollops of 1/2 cup sour cream, garnished with 1/4 cup sliced green onions and 1/4 cup sliced pickled jalapeños (if desired).
# Notes:
01 -
For extra flavor, let the chili simmer longer, up to 30 minutes, allowing the spices to deepen. Add a splash more beef broth if it gets too thick.
02 -
Feel free to swap sharp cheddar for a Mexican blend cheese. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground "meat" and vegetable broth.
03 -
This Frito Pie is fantastic served directly from the baking dish for a casual family meal. Individual servings can also be made in small oven-safe bowls.
04 -
Leftover chili can be stored separately from Fritos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat chili and add fresh Fritos for best texture.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
Measuring cups and spoons
03 -
Spatula
04 -
9x13 inch baking dish (optional)
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 560 kcal
Total Fat: 44 g
Total Carbohydrate: 30 g
Protein: 29 g