If you’re after a dish that’s hearty, crowd-pleasing, and just plain fun, look no further than this Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe. Imagine layers of crunchy corn chips, savory chili-spiced beef, melty cheddar, and all your favorite Tex-Mex flavors coming together in one glorious bake. It’s the kind of comfort food that draws everyone to the table, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or game day gathering. Plus, you’ll love how quickly it comes together with pantry staples and simple steps—this casserole is destined to become a new favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe is built on a handful of simple ingredients, each one bringing something special to the party. From the richly seasoned beef to the creamy cheese and the irresistible crunch of Fritos, every component has its moment to shine.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The hearty, protein-packed base that soaks up all the Tex-Mex flavors.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the onions and garlic sauté to aromatic perfection.
- Onion, diced (1 small): Adds sweetness and depth to the beef filling.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses the casserole with a savory, mouthwatering aroma.
- Chili beans, undrained (1 15 oz can): Bring in a saucy, slightly spicy layer and hearty texture.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (1 10 oz can): Add tang, color, and just the right amount of heat.
- Chili powder (1 tablespoon): The main spice player that gives the dish its signature Tex-Mex kick.
- Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the filling.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch for balance and a subtle peppery note.
- Fritos corn chips (3 cups): The star of the show—crunchy, salty, and totally addictive.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts into gooey, golden goodness throughout the casserole.
- Sliced green onions (1/4 cup, optional): For a pop of color and mild onion flavor as a garnish.
- Sour cream (for serving, optional): Adds creamy, cool contrast to all the bold flavors.
How to Make Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften and turn translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds—just long enough for the kitchen to start smelling amazing, but not so long that the garlic browns.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet with your onions and garlic. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, making sure every bit gets nicely browned and fully cooked through. This step builds the savory foundation of your Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe. Once there’s no pink left, drain off any excess fat so your casserole doesn’t get greasy.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Filling
To the cooked beef mixture, stir in the can of chili beans (liquid and all), diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This gives the flavors a chance to meld and makes sure every bite is packed with Tex-Mex goodness.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then scatter half of your Fritos corn chips across the bottom. Spoon the beef and bean mixture evenly over the chips, followed by half of your shredded cheddar cheese. Add a final layer with the remaining Fritos and top everything off with the rest of the cheese—this double layer ensures you get pockets of gooey cheese and crunchy chips in every bite!
Step 5: Bake and Finish
Slide your casserole into the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the whole dish looks irresistibly golden. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving to help everything set up, then finish with a sprinkle of green onions and a dollop of sour cream if you like.
How to Serve Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Take your Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe over the top with a handful of sliced green onions and a generous spoonful of cool sour cream. For extra flair, add fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce—everyone can customize their own slice!
Side Dishes
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with zesty sides. Try serving it alongside a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette, buttery corn on the cob, or a simple black bean salad. These fresh, light flavors balance the rich, cheesy goodness of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets—everyone gets their own mini pie! You can also scoop portions into bowls and top with extra Fritos for added crunch. If you’re hosting a party, set out toppings bar-style and let guests build their own creations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe stores like a dream. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer pieces to an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better as they mingle, making leftovers something to look forward to!
Freezing
If you want to freeze the casserole, assemble everything except the top layer of Fritos and cheese (to keep them from going soggy). Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, add the final Fritos and cheese, and bake as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For smaller portions, microwave in short bursts until hot. If you want to revive the crunch, add a fresh handful of Fritos on top just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even ground chicken can be swapped in for the beef if you’d prefer a lighter version. Just be sure to season well and cook it fully before adding the other ingredients.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can easily make a meatless Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe by substituting the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans, like black beans or kidney beans. All the Tex-Mex flavors will still shine!
How can I add more heat?
If you crave extra spice, use hot diced tomatoes with chilies, toss in some chopped fresh jalapeños, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also serve with hot sauce or spicy salsa on the side for those who like it fiery.
Will the Fritos stay crunchy?
The Fritos on top stay delightfully crunchy, especially if you serve the casserole soon after baking. The ones layered underneath soak up some of the flavors and get a little softer, which adds to the comforting, casserole vibe.
What’s the best way to transport this for a potluck?
Bake your Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe in a sturdy, lidded baking dish. Wrap it in a towel to keep it warm during transit, and bring extra Fritos and garnishes to add just before serving so everything stays fresh and crisp.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a meal that’s as easy as it is satisfying, this Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe is calling your name. It’s impossible not to fall in love with those bold flavors and irresistible textures, so gather your ingredients and get ready to make some delicious memories. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new weeknight favorite!
Print
Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe combines the bold flavors of seasoned ground beef, chili beans, and zesty diced tomatoes layered over crispy Fritos and melted cheddar cheese, creating a comforting and delicious Tex-Mex main dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Chili Mixture
- 1 (15 oz) can chili beans, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Assembly
- 3 cups Fritos corn chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional)
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once the casserole is assembled.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the diced onion for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.
- Add Seasonings and Beans: Stir in the chili beans (with liquid), diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Assemble Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start by layering half of the Fritos corn chips on the bottom. Evenly spread the beef and chili mixture over the Fritos, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add the remaining Fritos on top, and finish with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with sour cream if desired.
Notes
- For extra heat, substitute the diced tomatoes with hot diced tomatoes with chilies or add sliced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- Chili beans can be swapped for black beans or pinto beans depending on preference or dietary needs.
- Leftovers refrigerate well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
