Best Easy Corn Chip Casserole Recipe

Corn chip casserole tops seasoned ground beef chili with crunchy Fritos and melted cheese for a fun Tex-Mex family bake. This protein-rich, kid-approved dinner is quick, budget-friendly, and irresistible.

Cook 45 min Difficulty EASY 585 kcal
#kid friendly #high protein #tex mex #family dinner
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • ground beef (80% lean) 1.5 lbs
  • yellow onion, diced 1 cup
  • canned diced tomatoes, undrained 1.5 cups
  • canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed 1.25 cups
  • corn chips (such as Fritos) 4 cups
  • shredded cheddar cheese 2 cups
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 41 g 28%
Protein 27 g 18%
Fat 34 g 54%
Serving size 280g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

  2. 2

    In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the meat, until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.

  3. 3

    Stir in diced tomatoes, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered over medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes to thicken.

  4. 4

    Spread half the corn chips evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with the beef mixture, spreading it into an even layer.

  5. 5

    Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture, then top with the remaining corn chips.

  6. 6

    Bake, uncovered, on the center oven rack for 15-18 minutes or until cheese is melty and edges bubble. Serve immediately while chips are still crisp.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Corn Chip Casserole recipe?
The key ingredient is corn chips, which form the crispy, flavorful topping that makes this casserole stand out. Combined with seasoned ground beef, cheese, beans, and tomatoes, the corn chips add crunch and a Tex-Mex flavor.
Q. How do I avoid soggy chips in my corn chip casserole?
To keep the chips crisp, layer only half the chips at the bottom, reserve some for the top, and bake uncovered. Adding the cheese layer before the upper chip layer creates a barrier. Serve immediately so the chips don't soften from the steam.
Q. What’s the best cooking temperature and time for perfect results?
375°F is ideal for melting the cheese and crisping the chips without drying out the filling. Bake the assembled casserole for 15–18 minutes, watching for bubbling edges and melted cheese.
Q. How many calories and how much protein does each serving provide?
Each serving provides approximately 585 kcal and 27 grams of protein. The protein percentage is 18%, making this a filling, protein-rich dinner option.
Q. Which ingredient brings the most flavor to the casserole?
Chili powder is the primary seasoning, delivering a bold Tex-Mex profile. Alongside cumin, garlic powder, and the tanginess from tomatoes, it elevates the entire dish to deliver classic chili flavors in casserole form.
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