easy-frito-pie-recipe

This hearty Frito Pie transforms simple ingredients into a comforting family meal that brings back memories of potluck gatherings. The combination of seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and the satisfying crunch of corn chips creates a casual yet irresistible dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights.

I first made this Frito pie when my sister's family unexpectedly stayed for dinner. With just ground beef and basic ingredients in my pantry, this crowd pleaser saved the day. Now it's requested at nearly every family gathering.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: the lean variety provides great flavor without excess grease
• Onion: adds essential aromatic base for the meat mixture
• Taco seasoning: instant flavor booster that perfectly seasons the meat
• Enchilada sauce: provides rich tomato flavor with authentic Mexican spices
• Pinto beans: adds protein and hearty texture to stretch the dish further
• Fritos corn chips: the star ingredient that gives the dish its signature crunch
• Mexican blend cheese: creates the perfect gooey melted layer
• Green onions: adds fresh flavor and color as garnish
• Sour cream: cooling creamy element that balances the spices
• Guacamole: adds richness and complements the Mexican flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9x13 inch glass baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Using glass allows you to see the beautiful layers forming and ensures even heating throughout the casserole.

Brown The Meat Mixture:

Crumble ground beef into a large skillet and add diced onions. Cook over medium heat until beef is fully browned, about 7 to 8 minutes, breaking up any large chunks with a wooden spoon. Drain off excess fat to prevent a greasy casserole.

Season And Simmer:

Add taco seasoning and water to the skillet, stirring to coat the meat evenly. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes while stirring frequently. This allows the spices to bloom and penetrate the meat for maximum flavor.

Create The Sauce:

Pour in enchilada sauce and add drained pinto beans, stirring until everything is well combined. Let the mixture simmer for another minute to meld the flavors together.

Layer Your Casserole:

Spread 4 cups of Fritos across the bottom of your prepared baking dish, creating an even layer. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the chips. The bottom layer of chips will soften slightly during baking, creating a delicious corn flavor throughout.

Add Meat And Cheese:

Carefully spoon the hot meat mixture over the chips and cheese, spreading it evenly to the edges. Top with the remaining cheese, making sure to cover the entire surface for that perfect melty layer.

Bake To Perfection:

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes until hot and bubbly with melted cheese throughout. The edges should be slightly bubbling when it's ready.

Final Touch:

Sprinkle the remaining Fritos over the top of the hot casserole just before serving. This gives the dish that signature crunch that makes Frito pie so irresistible.

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The enchilada sauce is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its flavor impact accidentally when I ran out of tomato sauce one night. The slightly tangy, rich flavor transformed the dish from good to exceptional, and now I wouldn't make it any other way.

Make Ahead Options

This Frito pie can be partially prepared ahead of time to make dinner even quicker. Brown the meat with onions, seasonings, enchilada sauce and beans, then refrigerate for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply warm the meat mixture, then assemble and bake as directed. The entire casserole can also be assembled without the final layer of Fritos, refrigerated for several hours, then baked adding 5 minutes to the baking time. Add the final Fritos just before serving for maximum crunch.

Variations To Try

This recipe welcomes customization based on your family's preferences. Try substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or use black beans instead of pinto beans. For a spicier kick, add a can of diced green chiles or jalapeños to the meat mixture. Vegetarians can enjoy this dish by replacing the ground beef with an additional can of beans or plant based meat substitute. The enchilada sauce can be swapped between red or green varieties depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Frito pie as a complete meal or with simple sides like a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette. For a more festive presentation, set up a toppings bar with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced black olives, jalapeños, and additional sour cream and guacamole. This allows everyone to customize their portion. For a fun twist at parties, serve individual portions in small Fritos bags opened on their side with the meat mixture and toppings spooned directly inside for walking tacos.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of chip instead of Fritos?

Yes, you can use other corn chips or tortilla chips as a substitute, but Fritos provide a unique crunch and flavor that complements this dish.

→ What can I serve with Frito Pie?

Frito Pie pairs well with a side salad, fresh salsa, or extra guacamole to balance the flavors and textures in the dish.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, layer it with the chips and cheese and heat as directed.

→ How can I customize the toppings for Frito Pie?

Feel free to add jalapeños, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or hot sauce to customize the dish to your taste.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

To make Frito Pie vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein or additional beans and ensure the taco seasoning is vegetarian-friendly.