If you are craving a flavor-packed, comforting dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, then this Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine layers of perfectly seasoned ground beef mingling with zesty tomato sauce, all nestled on a crunchy bed of Fritos and topped with gooey melted cheddar cheese. This casserole brings together bold Tex-Mex flavors with the satisfying texture of crispy chips, creating a one-dish meal that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are incredibly straightforward but work in harmony to build depth, spice, and texture in every bite. Each component plays a crucial role, from the hearty ground beef providing richness, to the crunchy Fritos adding that unforgettable chipotle crunch.
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef: The main protein base that delivers savory flavor and satisfying heft.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and subtle bite when cooked down with the beef.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: For aromatic depth and that classic garlic zing.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: Brings warmth and the essential Tex-Mex spice note.
- 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor throughout without extra texture.
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder: Helps intensify the garlic flavor in an even way.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances and brightens all the other ingredients.
- ¾ teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthiness and complexity.
- ½ teaspoon chipotle powder: For a smoky heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- 6 tablespoons tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and delivers a concentrated tomato flavor.
- 15 ounces tomato sauce: Provides saucy moisture, making the casserole rich and cohesive.
- ½ cup beef stock: Keeps the filling juicy and adds a savory depth.
- 9 cups lightly crushed Fritos: The genius crunch base that makes this casserole truly unique.
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top, creating gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Sour cream, for serving: Adds a cool, creamy contrast to the dish’s bold flavors.
- Sliced scallions, for serving: A fresh, oniony touch that brightens each bite.
How to Make Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Vegetables
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking the beef apart, until it’s fully browned and the onions are soft and fragrant. This base is where all the savory magic begins, so don’t rush the browning—it develops deep flavor.
Step 2: Season the Meat Mixture
Sprinkle in chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, cumin, and chipotle powder. Stir everything together to coat the beef and onion mixture evenly with these spices, allowing them to toast slightly in the pan. This step layers your casserole with those signature Tex-Mex notes you crave.
Step 3: Add Tomato and Stock
Stir in the tomato paste first, cooking for about 2 minutes to remove any raw taste. Then pour in the tomato sauce and beef stock, whisking to combine. Turn the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld, about 10 minutes. This rich sauce is the heart of your casserole.
Step 4: Layer the Fritos and Beef Mixture
In a medium baking dish, spread half of the lightly crushed Fritos evenly across the bottom. Pour half of the beef and tomato sauce mixture over the chips, spreading it out gently. Repeat the layering one more time with the remaining Fritos and beef mixture. These layers give you a delightful contrast of textures in every forkful.
Step 5: Top with Cheese and Bake
Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese atop the final layer. Pop the casserole into a 350°F oven and bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden. That melted cheese seals everything together in a gooey, dreamy finish.
How to Serve Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe, top it with dollops of cool sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh scallions. The sour cream adds a luscious creaminess that balances the hearty spices, while scallions offer a fresh, crisp bite that brightens the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lime vinaigrette or a refreshing cucumber salad. For more indulgent options, try serving with jalapeño cornbread or Mexican rice to round out the meal with complementary textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to switch things up, try making this casserole in individual ramekins for a fun personal touch at parties or family meals. You can also serve it layered inside a hollowed-out bell pepper for a colorful, eye-catching presentation that adds a subtle sweetness to each helping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep happily in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for leftovers or easy weekday meals.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if stored in a freezer-safe container. Freeze it for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before baking, then thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy a quick dinner without sacrificing any flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through. This method preserves the toppings and prevents the chip layer from becoming soggy. You can also microwave single servings covered loosely with a damp paper towel for a quick fix, but the oven remains the best for texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chip instead of Fritos?
Absolutely! While Fritos give this casserole its classic flavor and texture, you can try tortilla chips or even corn chips if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different chips may affect the crunch and saltiness slightly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, you can swap out ground beef for plant-based meat crumbles or browned mushrooms for a similar texture and hearty flavor. Just adjust the seasonings as needed to suit your taste.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely. Increase the amount of chipotle powder or add diced jalapeños when cooking the onions for more heat. Just be cautious not to overpower the dish’s balance of flavors.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
While sharp cheddar is classic, you could also use Monterey Jack, pepper jack for extra kick, or a Mexican cheese blend for different nuances in flavor and meltiness.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your Fritos and beef stock are labeled gluten-free. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure no hidden gluten sources.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food magic—simple ingredients, bold flavors, and that unmatched combo of crunchy chips and melty cheese. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, this casserole is sure to bring smiles and satisfied bellies. Give it a try soon, and watch it become a go-to in your kitchen!
Print
Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Frito Pie Casserole is a delicious, hearty dish perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together. Featuring a savory ground beef chili layer enhanced with spices and tomato, layered over crunchy Fritos, and topped with melted cheddar cheese, this casserole brings the classic comfort food flavors in a convenient, baked format. Served with sour cream and scallions, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s simple to prepare and full of bold, satisfying taste.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chipotle powder
Sauces and Liquids
- 6 tablespoons tomato paste
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- ½ cup beef stock
Other Ingredients
- 9 cups lightly crushed Fritos
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream, for serving
- Sliced scallions, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are translucent, about 7 to 10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, ground cumin, and chipotle powder to evenly coat the beef mixture with flavor. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste and Sauce: Add tomato paste and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine, then pour in the beef stock. Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Prepare Casserole Base: Spread half of the crushed Fritos evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer Beef Chili: Spoon the beef chili mixture evenly over the Fritos layer, ensuring even coverage.
- Add Cheese and Remaining Fritos: Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the chili layer. Then layer the remaining crushed Fritos on top, followed by the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve individual portions topped with a dollop of sour cream and sliced scallions for a fresh flavor contrast.
Notes
- For an extra spicy kick, add more chipotle powder or a splash of hot sauce to the chili mixture.
- If you prefer a less crunchy texture, lightly crush the Fritos before layering.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for more pronounced flavor or substitute with pepper jack for added heat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- You can substitute beef stock with water or vegetable broth as needed.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from cooked ground beef to prevent greasiness in the casserole.
