Frito Pie is a comforting dish that layers crispy Fritos corn chips with seasoned beef and gooey melted cheddar cheese. This classic recipe is not only easy to make but is also perfect for any gathering or a hearty weeknight dinner. With minimal prep time and a total cooking time of just 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
1 can (15 oz) chili beans
Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 bag (9.25 oz) Fritos corn chips
Directions:
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Be sure to drain any excess fat.
Add Seasonings: Stir in the taco seasoning, chili beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Layer the Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the Fritos, followed by half of the beef mixture, and then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat these layers with the remaining Fritos, beef mixture, and cheese.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Once baked, serve hot with optional toppings such as sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or chopped cilantro.
Serving Tips:
Garnish Creatively: Enhance the presentation by adding a variety of toppings. Besides sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro, consider avocado slices, green onions, or olives for added flavor and texture.
Pair with Sides: Serve Frito Pie with complementary sides such as a fresh garden salad, coleslaw, or Mexican-style corn on the cob. These sides can help balance the richness of the pie.
Make it a Meal: Consider serving it with a side of tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole to create a complete Mexican-inspired feast.
Adjust Portions: Depending on the occasion, you can serve smaller portions as a snack or appetizer, or larger portions for a full meal. Use individual ramekins for personal servings if desired.
Storage Tips:
Cool Down: Allow leftover Frito Pie to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation and sogginess in the container.
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If the dish was topped with sour cream or fresh toppings, consider storing those separately to maintain freshness.
Freeze for Later: If you have a lot of leftovers, Frito Pie can be frozen. Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheat Properly: When reheating, you can use the oven for the best texture. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil to retain moisture, reheating for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but they may become slightly soggy.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, monitor closely to avoid overcooking, which can lead to dry ingredients. If you find the cheese has hardened, adding a splash of water or broth can help rehydrate it.
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FAQs:
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef in Frito Pie?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef to make a lighter version of Frito Pie. Just be aware that the flavor may vary slightly, and you may want to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
What can I add to Frito Pie for extra flavor and texture?
You can enhance your Frito Pie by adding ingredients like black olives, corn, bell peppers, or diced green onions to the beef mixture. For a spicier kick, consider using spicy diced tomatoes or adding hot sauce.
Can I prepare Frito Pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling and baking the Frito Pie. This can save you time on busy nights. Just layer it with the Fritos and cheese right before baking.
How can I make a vegetarian version of Frito Pie?
To make a vegetarian Frito Pie, replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables (like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers) or use canned beans like black beans or kidney beans. You can also use plant-based ground meat substitutes for a similar texture. Just ensure your taco seasoning is vegetarian-friendly.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this Frito Pie recipe is sure to be a hit. With its easy preparation, hearty flavors, and customizable toppings, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Try it today and indulge in the comforting goodness of this classic favorite!
📖 Recipe:
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Frito Pie
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Frito Pie is a comforting classic that features layers of crispy Fritos corn chips, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for gatherings or a hearty weeknight dinner, topped with optional garnishes like sour cream and jalapeños. Enjoy the perfect blend of textures and flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
1 can (15 oz) chili beans
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 bag (9.25 oz) Fritos corn chips
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, chili beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the Fritos, then top with half of the beef mixture. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining Fritos, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve hot with optional toppings such as sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or chopped cilantro.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef.
To make a vegetarian option, replace beef with sautéed vegetables or canned beans.
You can prepare the beef mixture in advance for quicker assembly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 400 kcal per serving
