Frito Pie has been a cherished comfort food in many households for years. This easy and delightful dish combines layers of savory chili, gooey melted cheese, and crispy corn chips, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, game days, or nostalgic gatherings. The blend of flavors and textures is truly irresistible, and it all comes together in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Frito Pie

This Frito Pie recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few pantry staples. Second, the combination of flavors and textures—from the fluffy chili to the crunchy Fritos—creates a satisfying meal. Third, it can easily feed a crowd, making it perfect for parties or family gatherings. Additionally, you can customize it with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, jalapeños, or avocado slices. It’s also versatile enough to be served as a main dish or as a snack. Plus, it’s a comforting meal that brings back nostalgic memories for many.

Ingredients for Frito Pie

Gather these items:

1 pound ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups Fritos corn chips
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped green onions

How to Make Frito Pie Step-by-Step

Step 1: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Step 2: Stir in the kidney beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Let the chili mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 4: Spoon the hot chili into a serving dish or individual bowls.
Step 5: Top the chili with shredded cheddar cheese and allow it to melt slightly.
Step 6: Scatter Fritos over the cheese layer while everything is still hot.
Step 7: Garnish with sour cream and chopped green onions just before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Frito Pie

Keep these in mind:

This dish is perfect for casual weeknight meals or game day snacks.
It’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative.
Consider adding jalapeños for a spicy kick!

Nutrition Facts for Frito Pie

Per 1 serving:

Calories: 480
Protein: 20g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

Nutritional values are estimates.

Frequently Asked Questions About Frito Pie

What’s the secret to perfect Frito Pie?

The secret to perfect Frito Pie lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Use high-quality chili, and don’t skimp on the cheese! Fresh toppings like sour cream and green onions can elevate the dish further.

Can I make Frito Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chili portion ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving and assemble with the Fritos and toppings for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Frito Pie?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to overcook the beef, as it can become dry. Also, layer the Fritos just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.

Variations of Frito Pie You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Frito Casserole: Bake Frito Pie in a casserole dish for a gooey, cheesy experience.
Chili Cheese Fritos: Use flavored Fritos for an extra twist.
Tex-Mex Frito Dish: Add black olives and diced tomatoes for a Tex-Mex flair.
Frito Salad: Toss in lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado for a fresh take.

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Incredible homemade Frito Pie ready in minutes

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For those looking for a healthier option, consider using lean ground beef or turkey. You can find more tips on healthy eating on the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics website.

Lastly, if you’re interested in learning more about the history of Frito Pie, you can visit Food Timeline for an interesting read.