Frito Chili Pie
Growing up, Frito Chili Pie was always a family favorite, especially during cozy fall evenings. It was the kind of dish that brought everyone together, with the warmth of chili and the crunch of Fritos creating a delightful contrast. I can still remember the tantalizing aroma wafting through the kitchen as my mom prepared it, her laughter ringing out as we eagerly awaited our servings. This recipe has a special place in my heart, representing comfort and joy in every bite. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for any gathering or simply a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Medium
500 kcal
30 g
Keto, Gluten-Free
20 g
Oven, Frying Pan, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board
What’s Great About This Frito Chili Pie
There’s something truly magical about Frito Chili Pie that makes it stand out from other comfort foods. I think it’s the combination of flavors and textures that keeps you coming back for more.
1. Nostalgic Comfort
Every time I dig into a dish of Frito Chili Pie, I’m transported back to my childhood. It’s that perfect blend of savory ground beef, zesty seasonings, and crispy Fritos that evokes a sense of nostalgia. It reminds me of family gatherings and carefree summer nights, where laughter filled the air.
2. Versatile and Customizable
One of the beauties of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavors to suit your taste. Whether you want to add more spice, toss in some veggies, or swap the beans for something else, the possibilities are endless. This is a dish that invites creativity in the kitchen.
3. Quick and Easy to Prepare
Life can be hectic, but Frito Chili Pie doesn’t demand much of your time. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a quick cook time, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights. You can have a hearty meal ready in no time!
4. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, Frito Chili Pie fits right in. It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Set it out at parties, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds!
5. Budget-Friendly
This dish is not only easy to make but also kind on your wallet. With affordable ingredients like ground beef, beans, and Fritos, you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. It’s a win-win!
Frito Chili Pie Ingredients
When it comes to crafting the perfect Frito Chili Pie, every ingredient plays a pivotal role. The harmony of flavors is what makes this dish so delightful. You’ll find that the combination of savory, spicy, and crunchy elements creates a rich tasting experience.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base of the dish, providing flavor and protein.
- 1 (9-ounce) bag original Fritos chips: The crispy topping that adds texture and crunch.
- 1 cup diced onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the chili.
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic: Brings in a robust flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: Infuses heat and warmth to the chili.
- 2 teaspoons oregano: Adds a hint of earthiness to balance the spice.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: A must for chili, offering a unique flavor that’s truly signature.
- 1 teaspoon coriander: Complements the spices with a citrusy note.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Brings in a mild kick.
- 1 cup beef broth: Keeps the chili moist and adds richness.
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce: Adds sweetness and acidity, balancing out the spices.
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel tomatoes, undrained: Provides texture and a bit of zing.
- 1 (15-ounce) drained and rinsed can pinto beans: Adds creaminess and fiber.
- 1 (15-ounce) drained and rinsed can kidney beans: Another layer of beans for texture and protein.
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The final touch that melts into gooey perfection!
Instructions for Frito Chili Pie
Cooking Frito Chili Pie is as straightforward as it is satisfying. Just follow these easy steps and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
- Start by spraying a deep 9-inch pie pan with non-stick cooking spray. This helps prevent the Fritos from sticking and makes serving easier.
- Next, dump the Fritos chips into the greased pan, spreading them evenly across the bottom. This will create a delightful crunch once everything cooks together.
- In a large pot, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion to the pot. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nicely browned and the onion has turned tender and translucent.
- Once the beef is browned, stir in minced garlic, chili powder, oregano, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Allow this mixture to cook for another minute, letting the spices bloom and fill your kitchen with their irresistible aroma.
- Now, add the beef broth, tomato sauce, Rotel tomatoes, pinto beans, and kidney beans to the pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. You want it heated through and all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Pour the chili mixture evenly over the layer of Fritos in the pie pan. Spreading it out helps each Frito get a taste of that delicious chili!
- Lastly, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the chili. This will melt into gooey goodness as it cooks.
- Broil the pie on high in the oven for about 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
- Once it’s beautifully golden and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Then, serve it up hot!
Things Worth Knowing
- Ingredient Quality: Using high-quality ingredients like fresh ground beef and real cheddar cheese can elevate the dish significantly.
- Layering Technique: Consider layering the Fritos and chili in individual portions for a fun presentation.
- Garnishing: Top with some chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and freshness.
- Chili Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking; add jalapeños for heat or bell peppers for sweetness!
Substitutions and Tips
As you prepare your Frito Chili Pie, keep these tips in mind to ensure a delicious outcome!
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for the best texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze the chili mixture before adding the cheese and Fritos. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and assembling.
- Pairing: This dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or some cornbread for a complete meal.
- Garnishes: Consider adding fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or even avocado slices as garnishes for added flavor.
- Serving Size: This recipe makes a generous amount, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering!
What Goes Well With This Frito Chili Pie
When serving Frito Chili Pie, it’s great to have a few side dishes or accompaniments that complement its bold flavors.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp and refreshing garden salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the chili.
- Cornbread: Serve alongside warm cornbread to mop up the chili and add a touch of sweetness.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream atop each serving cools down the spice and adds creaminess.
- Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado brings creaminess and balances the dish well.
- Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual get-togethers, game days, or even a cozy family dinner.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and enjoy them for a quick meal later!
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Frito Chili Pie is a comforting dish that stands out for its unique combination of crispy and savory flavors. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering. I encourage you to try making it tonight and savor the deliciousness that will surely bring joy to your table!
Frito Chili Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by spraying a deep 9-inch pie pan with non-stick cooking spray. This helps prevent the Fritos from sticking and makes serving easier.
- Next, dump the Fritos chips into the greased pan, spreading them evenly across the bottom. This will create a delightful crunch once everything cooks together.
- In a large pot, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion to the pot. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nicely browned and the onion has turned tender and translucent.
- Once the beef is browned, stir in minced garlic, chili powder, oregano, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Allow this mixture to cook for another minute, letting the spices bloom and fill your kitchen with their irresistible aroma.
- Now, add the beef broth, tomato sauce, Rotel tomatoes, pinto beans, and kidney beans to the pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. You want it heated through and all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Pour the chili mixture evenly over the layer of Fritos in the pie pan. Spreading it out helps each Frito get a taste of that delicious chili!
- Lastly, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the chili. This will melt into gooey goodness as it cooks.
- Broil the pie on high in the oven for about 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
- Once it’s beautifully golden and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Then, serve it up hot!
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for the best texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze the chili mixture before adding the cheese and Fritos. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and assembling.
- Pairing: This dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or some cornbread for a complete meal.
- Garnishes: Consider adding fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or even avocado slices as garnishes for added flavor.
- Serving Size: This recipe makes a generous amount, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering!
