A Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food Classic

When it comes to hearty, easy-to-make comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like a warm, cheesy Frito Pie. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a casual game-day gathering, or simply craving a nostalgic meal, this Easy Frito Pie Recipe is the perfect solution. Packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors, a satisfying crunch, and gooey cheese, it’s no wonder this recipe is a beloved favorite for all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Frito Pie Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends when you want a dish that’s quick to prepare but big on flavor. It’s affordable, made with pantry staples, and versatile enough to adapt to your preferences. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one dish—protein-packed beef, fiber-rich beans, crunchy corn chips, and a decadent layer of cheese. It’s a win-win!

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe’s straightforward instructions make it nearly foolproof. And the best part? You’ll only need about 20 minutes of prep time before your oven does the rest.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Frito Pie:

1 pound lean ground beef
1 small onion, peeled and diced
1 package taco seasoning mix
2/3 cup water
1 can (10 ounces) enchilada sauce
1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 bag (9.25 ounces) Fritos corn chips, divided
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
1 green onion, chopped
Sour cream, for garnish
Prepared guacamole, for garnish

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
9×13-inch glass baking dish
Non-stick cooking spray
Measuring cups
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Prepare a 9×13-inch glass baking dish by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. This will make cleanup a breeze!

2. Cook the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet, crumble the ground beef and add the diced onions. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

3. Add Seasoning and Sauce

Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until well combined. Add the enchilada sauce and drained pinto beans. Stir well to evenly distribute the flavors.

4. Assemble the Frito Pie

Pour 4 cups of the Fritos corn chips into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded Mexican blend cheese over the chips. Evenly spread the meat mixture on top of the cheese layer. Top with the remaining cheese.

5. Bake

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly. The cheese should be melted and golden.

6. Add the Finishing Touches

Sprinkle the remaining Fritos over the top of the casserole for extra crunch. Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions, sour cream, and guacamole for a flavor-packed finish.

Tips and Tricks

Short on time? Use pre-diced onions or frozen diced onion to speed up prep.
Want to make it spicier? Swap the regular enchilada sauce for a spicier version, or add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
Meatless option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply use extra beans.
Cheese swaps: If you don’t have a Mexican blend, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack work perfectly.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350ºF for 10-15 minutes.

For longer storage, this Frito Pie freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly in aluminum foil and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Food and Drink Pairings

This Easy Frito Pie pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of Mexican rice. For drinks, serve with a refreshing margarita, a cold beer, or a lime-infused sparkling water. Kids will love pairing it with a creamy horchata or a simple glass of milk.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the Frito Pie up to the point of baking, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time if needed.

What are some variations of Frito Pie?

You can customize this recipe in countless ways. Add roasted corn, diced bell peppers, or black beans for extra texture and flavor. You can also use shredded chicken or pulled pork instead of ground beef.

How do I keep the Fritos from getting soggy?

To maintain the Fritos’ crunch, add the top layer of chips just before serving. This ensures they stay crispy and delicious.

Can I use a different type of chip?

While Fritos are traditional, you can experiment with other corn chips or even tortilla chips for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Frito Pie Recipe is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its combination of bold flavors, satisfying textures, and simple preparation make it a go-to meal for any occasion.

If you love this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! And be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!

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