Description
This hearty and flavorful Frito Pie combines seasoned ground beef, beans, green chilies, and enchilada sauce layered with crunchy Fritos corn chips and melted cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection and topped with fresh garnishes, it makes a comforting and easy-to-make Tex-Mex casserole perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 (4 ounce) cans diced mild green chilies
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans or kidney beans, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can red enchilada sauce
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese or cheddar
- 3-4 cups Fritos corn chips (or to taste)
Optional Toppings
- Cilantro, chopped
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream
- Scallions or red onions, sliced
- Avocado, sliced or diced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the oven rack in the middle position to ensure even baking.
- Brown the Beef and Onions: In a skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onions. Cook, breaking apart the beef with a spoon, for about 8-10 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean.
- Add Seasonings and Ingredients: Stir in the taco seasoning packet, chili powder, diced mild green chilies, drained beans, and the red enchilada sauce. Cook for another minute until the mixture is heated through and well combined.
- Assemble in Casserole Dish: Transfer the beef and bean mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer to create a base for the toppings.
- Add Cheese and Fritos: Sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese evenly over the beef mixture, then top with a generous 3-4 cups of Fritos corn chips, distributing them in an even layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the dish is hot throughout.
- Prepare Toppings: While the casserole bakes, prepare any optional toppings such as chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sour cream, sliced scallions or red onions, and avocado for serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the Frito Pie from the oven. Serve portions topped with your choice of fresh garnishes for added flavor and texture. Enjoy your delicious, comforting Frito Pie!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free Fritos if you require a gluten-free version.
- Keep the Fritos crunchy by adding them right before serving or adjust quantity according to crunch preference.
- Leftovers store well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Additional toppings like jalapeños or hot sauce can add extra spice if desired.
