Frito Pie has roots in Tex-Mex cuisine, gaining popularity throughout the Southwest. Traditionally, it was served in a bag of Fritos topped with chili and cheese. Over the years, creative cooks transformed it into a baked casserole, making it even more satisfying and shareable. Today, Frito Pie Casserole is celebrated for its nostalgia and its ability to feed a crowd with ease.
Frito Pie Casserole:
Start by browning the ground beef with onion and garlic until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning, beans, and tomatoes. Simmer the mixture for a few minutes to let the flavours blend. In a baking dish, spread a layer of Fritos, then top it with the beef mixture and shredded cheese. Repeat the layers if desired. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Add extra Fritos on top before serving for crunch.
History :
Frito Pie dates back to the 1930s when Fritos corn chips were first introduced in the United States. The original version was served in a small bag of Fritos, topped with chili, cheese, and onions. Over time, the recipe evolved into a baked casserole version, becoming popular across Texas, New Mexico, and the Southwest. Today, Frito Pie Casserole remains a beloved family meal that combines Tex-Mex flavours with American comfort food traditions.
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Frito Pie Casserole
Ingredients
- Ground beef or ground turkey
- Onion and garlic for flavour
- Taco seasoning or chili powder
- Black beans or pinto beans
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies
- Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Crunchy Fritos corn chips
- Sour cream, jalapeños, or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning, beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a baking dish, spread half of the Fritos.
- Top with the beef mixture and shredded cheese.
- Add another layer of Fritos and cheese if desired.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños before serving.
Notes
- For extra spice, use hot taco seasoning or add jalapeños.
- Swap beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add corn, bell peppers, or black olives for extra flavour and texture.
- Always add extra Fritos before serving to keep the crunch.
Tips for the Best Frito Pie Casserole:
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
- Add corn or bell peppers for extra flavour.
- To keep the chips crunchy, layer some inside and add more just before serving.
- For a lighter option, try baked tortilla chips instead of Fritos.
- Leftovers reheat well, but add fresh chips on top to maintain texture.
FAQ’s for Frito Pie Casserole:
Q: Can I make Frito Pie Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the beef mixture in advance and assemble before baking. Add chips just before cooking.
Q: Can I freeze Pie Casserole?
You can freeze the beef mixture but not the chips, as they will lose their crunch. Assemble fresh when ready.
Q: What can I use instead of Fritos?
Tortilla chips or even Doritos work as a substitute. Each brings a unique flavour twist.
Conclusion:
Frito Pie Casserole is a timeless comfort food that delivers flavour, crunch, and warmth in every bite. Easy to make, family-friendly, and endlessly versatile, it is a recipe you will return to again and again. Whether you prepare it for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this casserole never disappoints.