Frito Pie Casserole Recipe

Indulge in the savory delight of Frito Pie Casserole, a Tex-Mex classic that tantalizes taste buds with layers of bold flavors and satisfying crunch.

This easy-to-make dish features a hearty blend of seasoned ground beef, chili, and black beans, harmoniously layered with gooey melted cheddar and the iconic crunch of Fritos corn chips. Baked to perfection, each bite unveils a symphony of textures and tastes, making it a surefire hit for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Discover the joy of comfort food elevated to new heights as this Frito Pie Casserole brings warmth, simplicity, and a fiesta of flavors to your dining table.

Recipe for Frito Pie Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) chili
• 1 can (15 oz) of drained and rinsed black beans
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups Fritos corn chips
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:  Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef:  Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until vegetables are softened.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, canned chili, black beans, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Layer the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, create layers by starting with half of the Fritos at the bottom. Add the beef mixture on top, followed by a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of cheese.
5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly. Serve with dollops of sour cream, additional Fritos for crunch, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Crunchy Fritos Layer: Maintain the crunchiness of the Fritos by adding a layer just before serving. This ensures that the chips retain their texture and don’t become soggy during baking.
• Customize Your Toppings: Encourage creativity by setting up a toppings bar. Offer options like diced tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños, and extra cheese, allowing everyone to personalize their serving.
• Leftover Transformation: Transform leftovers into Frito Pie Casserole nachos. Simply layer the remaining casserole over tortilla chips, add more cheese, and bake until bubbly.

What To Serve With Frito Pie Casserole

1. Guacamole and Salsa: Serve your Frito Pie Casserole with a side of fresh guacamole and zesty salsa. The creaminess of guacamole and the tangy kick of salsa complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
2. Mexican Rice: Enhance your Tex-Mex feast by pairing Frito Pie Casserole with a side of flavorful Mexican rice. The combination of the casserole and the seasoned rice is a match made in culinary heaven.
3. Cornbread: The sweetness and crumbly texture of cornbread make it an excellent companion to the savory Frito Pie Casserole. Consider adding a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch.
4. Avocado Salad: Create a refreshing contrast by serving a light avocado salad on the side. The coolness of the salad balances the warmth and heartiness of the casserole.
5. Jalapeño Poppers: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, jalapeño poppers are a fantastic choice. The spiciness complements the flavors in the casserole, providing a delightful kick.
6. Coleslaw: A crisp and tangy coleslaw can add a refreshing element to your Frito Pie Casserole dinner. The crunchiness of the coleslaw pairs well with the soft texture of the casserole.

Conclusion

Frito Pie Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the bold flavors of chili, cheese, and the crunch of Fritos. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy the hearty, satisfying goodness of this Tex-Mex classic.

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