Best Easy Frito Pie Recipe

Frito pie smothers a bed of crunchy corn chips with seasoned chili, cheese, and onions for a Tex-Mex family classic. This quick, protein-packed dish is a beloved concession stand and weeknight favorite.

Cook 30 min Difficulty EASY 430 kcal
#family dinner #tex-mex #casserole #high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • ground beef 1 lb
  • canned chili beans 15 oz
  • canned diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
  • Fritos corn chips 6 cups
  • shredded cheddar cheese 2 cups
  • yellow onion 1 medium
Seasonings/Sauce
  • chili powder 2 tbsp
  • ground cumin 1 tsp
  • garlic powder 1 tsp
  • kosher salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 32 g 30%
Protein 17 g 16%
Fat 25 g 54%
Serving size 260g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned and no longer pink—about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess fat for a lighter texture.

  2. 2

    Reduce the heat to medium. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent and slightly softened.

  3. 3

    Stir in chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices and release aroma.

  4. 4

    Add chili beans (with liquid) and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer; cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened but still saucy.

  5. 5

    To assemble: Spread half of the Fritos in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spoon the hot chili mixture evenly over the chips, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, and top with the remaining Fritos.

  6. 6

    Transfer dish to a 350°F oven and bake for 10 minutes, just until cheese is melted and chips are toasted—do not overbake. Serve immediately for best crunch.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Frito Pie recipe?
The defining ingredient is crunchy Fritos corn chips, which provide the classic base and unique texture for the dish. Combined with seasoned ground beef chili and melted cheddar cheese, these chips are essential to capturing the signature flavor and crunch of authentic Frito pie.
Q. How do I avoid soggy chips in my Frito Pie?
To keep the Fritos crisp, layer them on the bottom just before adding the hot chili, and limit baking time—10 minutes at 350°F is enough for the cheese to melt without letting the chips absorb too much moisture. Serve immediately after baking for best results.
Q. What heat level should I use when preparing the chili layer?
Start by browning the beef on medium-high heat for full caramelization, then reduce to medium when adding onions and spices. Allow the chili mixture to gently simmer for 10 minutes to thicken the sauce and blend flavors without scorching.
Q. How many calories and how much protein are in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 430 kcal and 17 grams of protein, making this dish a satisfying, protein-packed option for a quick meal.
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