Frito Pie Done Right: A Hearty, Crowd-Pleasing Favorite
Growing up in a small town in Texas, Frito Pie was more than just a dish; it was a community event. Every Friday night, after the high school football game, families would gather around, sharing laughter and stories over steaming bowls of this delightful concoction. The aroma of chili and cheese wafting through the air is a memory I cherish, and now, I want to share that warmth with you through this recipe.
What Makes It Special
This Frito Pie recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Layered Flavors: The combination of spicy chili, creamy cheese, and crunchy Fritos creates a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, whether you prefer a vegetarian version or a meat lover’s delight.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, this dish can be whipped up in no time.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6
- 1 bag of Fritos corn chips
- 2 cups of chili (homemade or canned)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Sour cream for topping
Let’s Get Cooking
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large baking dish, spread a layer of Fritos at the bottom.
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Pour the chili evenly over the Fritos, ensuring every chip is covered.
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Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the chili.
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Add diced onions, tomatoes, and jalapeños as desired.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with sour cream if desired.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce to the chili before layering it on the Fritos.
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Feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with pepper jack for a spicier version.
What to Serve With It
- Fresh guacamole and tortilla chips
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Classic margaritas or iced tea
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the layers in advance and bake it just before serving.
Q: Is there a vegetarian option?
A: Yes! Simply use a meatless chili and load up on your favorite veggies.
The Heart of the Dish
Frito Pie is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of togetherness. Each bite brings back memories of laughter and joy, reminding us of the simple pleasures in life. I hope this recipe brings you as much happiness as it has brought to my family.
Your Turn
Now it’s your turn to create this delicious Frito Pie! I encourage you to try it out, make it your own, and share your experiences. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!
Frito Pie Done Right: A Hearty, Crowd-Pleasing Favorite
Ingredients
- 1 bag of Fritos corn chips
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for serving
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Classic margaritas or iced tea
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until soft.
- Stir in the chili beans and diced tomatoes, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the Fritos corn chips, followed by half of the beef mixture, and top with half of the cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining Fritos, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Top with sliced black olives, jalapeños, and serve hot with guacamole and salad on the side.
Nutrition Information
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