This Fritos Chili Cheese Salad is a perfect mix of savory and crunchy, blending together the bold flavors of chili, creamy cheese, fresh veggies, and crispy Fritos. It’s hearty enough to serve as a meal on its own or as a snack that’s sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s a fun twist on a traditional salad! The combination of crunchy Fritos, warm chili, and melty cheese is irresistible. The addition of fresh veggies adds a nice balance, while the sour cream and green onions give the dish a creamy, flavorful finish. Whether I’m looking for a quick meal or a snack to share, this salad is always a hit!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 bag of Fritos (about 9 oz)
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1 can chili (15 oz)
1 packet chili seasoning mix
1/2 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup diced red onions
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon chopped green onions
Directions
In a large skillet, I cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Once cooked through, I drain any excess fat.
I then add the chili seasoning mix to the beef, followed by the canned chili. Letting it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes lets the flavors meld together.
While the chili is simmering, I prepare the salad base by layering shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onions, and Fritos in a large serving bowl.
Once the chili is ready, I spoon it over the salad, making sure it’s nice and even.
I sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and add a generous dollop of sour cream for that extra creamy touch.
To finish, I garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Variations
For a spicier kick, I like to add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili.
If I’m looking to cut back on the calories, I’ll swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
To make it vegetarian, I can replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein and use a vegetarian chili.
If I’m craving more texture, I can add avocado or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for an extra crunch.
Storage/Reheating
If I have leftovers, I store the chili mixture and salad components separately in airtight containers. This helps keep the Fritos from getting soggy. The chili will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When I’m ready to eat, I reheat the chili in the microwave or on the stovetop. I assemble the salad fresh each time for the best texture.
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FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, I can prepare the chili ahead of time and store it in the fridge. I’ll assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
Can I use a different type of chips besides Fritos?
Definitely! While Fritos give a signature crunch, I’ve also used tortilla chips or even pita chips as a substitute. It’s all about what I prefer.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
I can easily add more veggies to suit my taste, like cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives. They’ll all complement the chili and add some extra freshness.
Is this recipe spicy?
The chili seasoning mix provides some spice, but it’s not overwhelmingly hot. If I like more heat, I can add extra chili powder, jalapeños, or hot sauce to kick it up a notch.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein or beans, and use a vegetarian chili. It’ll still taste delicious and hearty.
Conclusion
Fritos Chili Cheese Salad is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines all my favorite comfort foods in one bowl. Whether I’m serving it as a main dish or a side, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The mix of crunchy Fritos, savory chili, creamy cheese, and fresh veggies makes this salad irresistible every time.
📖 Recipe:
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Fritos Chili Cheese Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Fritos Chili Cheese Salad is the ultimate combination of savory chili, creamy cheese, fresh veggies, and crunchy Fritos. It’s perfect for a quick meal or a tasty snack. A fun twist on a traditional salad, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Ingredients
1 bag of Fritos (about 9 oz)
1 lb ground beef
1 can chili (15 oz)
1 packet chili seasoning mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup shredded lettuce
1/4 cup diced red onions
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon chopped green onions
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it browns. Drain excess fat once cooked through.
- Add the chili seasoning mix to the beef, then stir in the canned chili. Simmer for 10 minutes on low heat to blend the flavors.
- In a large serving bowl, layer shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onions, and Fritos.
- Spoon the chili mixture evenly over the salad.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and a generous dollop of sour cream.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
You can make the chili ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving for the freshest crunch.
Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer more heat.
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based protein or beans, and opt for vegetarian chili.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 425 kcal
