Frito Pie

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about making Frito Pie. Growing up, it was one of those dishes that brought my family together, often served at backyard barbecues or cozy movie nights. The flavorful combination of crispy Fritos, seasoned ground beef, and gooey cheese makes it a favorite that never fails to impress. As I prepare Frito Pie now, I’m reminded of those warm summer evenings when laughter filled the air, and this dish was the star of the show. It’s not just food; it’s a piece of my childhood, wrapped in layers of deliciousness!

Recipe Ingredients for Frito Pie

The ingredients for Frito Pie come together to create a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. The star players include crisp Fritos, savory ground beef, and rich cheddar cheese, making each bite a memorable experience.

• 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base of this dish, bringing an irresistible savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
• 2 tbsp dried minced onion flakes: These add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the meat.
• 2 (15-oz) cans Ranch Style Beans: A great source of protein and fiber, these beans contribute to the dish’s heartiness.
• 2 (10-oz) cans enchilada sauce: This spicy sauce infuses the meat and beans with a rich, tangy flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• 1 (9.75-oz) bag Fritos: The crispy element that adds the perfect crunch and texture to the dish.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melty and gooey, cheese elevates Frito Pie to a whole new level.
• Chopped green onions: For garnish, bringing a fresh crunch and pop of color.

How to Cook Frito Pie

Cooking Frito Pie is straightforward, making it an enjoyable experience for both novice and experienced cooks. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dish!

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This ensures that your Frito Pie will bake evenly.
2. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This is essential for easy serving!
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Use a meat masher tool for a finer texture.
4. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. This keeps the dish from becoming greasy.
5. Return the cooked beef to the pan and stir in the dried minced onion flakes, Ranch Style Beans, and enchilada sauce. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.
6. Pour half of the bag of Fritos into the prepared baking pan, creating a nice base layer.
7. Top the Fritos with the beef mixture, spreading it evenly over the chips.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the meat mixture. The cheese will melt beautifully.
9. Add the remaining Fritos on top, as they will provide the perfect crunch after baking.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will be mouthwatering!
11. Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
12. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Frito Pie!

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of exciting variations to explore! Here are some ideas to enhance your Frito Pie experience:

• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Extra Cheese: Mix different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for varied flavors.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!
• Flavor Boost: Incorporate additional spices like chili powder or cumin into the meat mixture for extra depth.
• Crunchy Toppings: Consider adding crushed tortilla chips or corn chips on top before baking for added crunch.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor!

Serve This Frito Pie With

When you’re ready to serve your Frito Pie, consider these delightful pairings:

• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Guacamole: Serve with creamy guacamole for an added layer of flavor.
• Mexican Rice: Pair alongside some flavorful Mexican rice to complete the meal.
• Chips and Salsa: Start your meal with a side of chips and salsa for a fun appetizer.
• Family Gatherings: Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings; it’s always a hit!
• Game Day: Ideal for game day snacking; everyone will love digging in!
• Comforting Dinner: Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, providing warmth and satisfaction.

FAQ

Conclusion

Frito Pie is truly a delightful and comforting dish that brings back fond memories and brightens any meal. Its layers of flavor and texture make it a family favorite, and it’s perfect for gatherings and cozy nights in. I encourage you to try making it for your loved ones; they’ll surely enjoy it as much as I do!

Frito Pie

The ultimate comfort food, Frito Pie combines crispy chips, hearty ground beef, and gooey melted cheese. This easy weeknight dinner is always a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. You won’t want to miss making this delicious dish tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 tbsp dried minced onion flakes
• 2 15-oz cans Ranch Style Beans
• 2 10-oz cans enchilada sauce
• 1 9.75-oz bag Fritos
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 bunch chopped green onions

Equipment

• 12-inch Non-Stick Skillet
• Meat Masher Tool
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish
• Rotary Cheese Grater

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This ensures that your Frito Pie will bake evenly.
2. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This is essential for easy serving!
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Use a meat masher tool for a finer texture.
4. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. This keeps the dish from becoming greasy.
5. Return the cooked beef to the pan and stir in the dried minced onion flakes, Ranch Style Beans, and enchilada sauce. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.
6. Pour half of the bag of Fritos into the prepared baking pan, creating a nice base layer.
7. Top the Fritos with the beef mixture, spreading it evenly over the chips.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the meat mixture. The cheese will melt beautifully.
9. Add the remaining Fritos on top, as they will provide the perfect crunch after baking.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will be mouthwatering!
11. Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
12. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Frito Pie!

Notes

• Substitutions for Meat: Can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a lower calorie option.
• Bean Options: If you can’t find Ranch Style Beans, you can substitute chili beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans. Black beans are also delicious.
• Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, add a packet of taco seasoning or chili seasonings to the beef mixture.
• Spiciness: If you want a spicier dish, add a can of green chilies or diced tomatoes with green chilies.
• Cheese Variety: You can use any shredded cheese that you enjoy, such as cheddar, Monterey jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Make Ahead: Yes, you can make the ground beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

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Meet Georgia Clark

I’m the one who obsesses over the details so you don't have to. I love the science of cooking and perfecting comfort classics. I’ve tested this recipe multiple times to guarantee it comes out foolproof and delicious every single time you make it.