Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines bold flavors and a fun, crunchy texture, you’re going to love this Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe. It’s like a warm hug in a casserole dish, layering savory seasoned ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, melty cheddar cheese, and those iconic crispy Fritos all baked to bubbly perfection. Whether you’re feeding a family or bringing a potluck dish, this recipe is a guaranteed hit that feels like a fiesta in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple but essential ingredients that come together to create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Each item plays a crucial role from the juicy, seasoned beef to the crispy corn Fritos that add irresistible crunch and character. Let’s break down what you’ll need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef: Provides rich, meaty flavor and protein to make this dish hearty.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch that balances the spices.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant depth that enhances the savory profile.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: Offers warmth and a mild kick essential for that classic chili flavor.
- 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder: Boosts onion flavor without any extra texture.
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder: Deepens the garlic notes for complexity.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Elevates all the flavors and balances seasoning.
- ¾ teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthiness and a smoky undertone.
- ½ teaspoon chipotle powder: Delivers mild smoky heat to excite your taste buds.
- 6 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato richness that thickens and intensifies the sauce.
- 15 ounces tomato sauce: Brings moisture and a fresh tomato tang.
- ½ cup beef stock: Adds savory depth and prevents the sauce from drying out.
- 9 cups lightly crushed Fritos: The star crunchy layer that provides amazing texture contrast.
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Creates gooey, melty bliss on top of every bite.
- Sour cream, for serving: Adds creamy coolness that perfectly balances the spices.
- Sliced scallions, for serving: A fresh, bright garnish to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Season the Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions soften. Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, cumin, and chipotle powder. This seasoning blend is the heart of the flavor, awakening the beef with smoky, spicy notes that make each bite unforgettable.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
Once the beef is thoroughly seasoned, stir in the tomato paste and cook briefly to caramelize its sugars and deepen the flavor. Then add the tomato sauce and beef stock, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and all those bold flavors to marry beautifully. This step transforms your filling from simple ground beef into a rich, saucy centerpiece.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, spread a layer of the lightly crushed Fritos, creating a crunchy base. Spoon the hot beef mixture evenly over the chips, then generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. The cheese melts into a golden, bubbly blanket that holds this delicious creation together.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly browned. The heat will soften the Fritos slightly but keep just enough crunch to add texture and contrast. Pull it out when the aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to dive in.
How to Serve Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For the perfect finishing touch, dollop some creamy sour cream over each serving to cool down the spice and add luscious creaminess. Sprinkle sliced scallions on top to introduce a fresh, oniony bite and a pop of bright green color. These simple garnishes turn the casserole into a visually inviting, palate-pleasing dish.
Side Dishes
Balance the bold flavors with a side of crisp, refreshing salad such as chopped romaine with a light vinaigrette or a tangy coleslaw. You could also serve it alongside classic Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete Tex-Mex-inspired meal that satisfies all cravings.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to get creative? Try layering the casserole in individual ramekins for personalized servings that look super cute on the table. Or, serve it deconstructed by layering the beef and cheesy sauce over Fritos in bowls, then letting everyone add their own toppings. This turns a homestyle dish into a fun interactive experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together even more as it rests, making it just as delicious the next day. Just keep in mind the Fritos may soften; we’ll talk about reheating tricks soon.
Freezing
You can freeze the Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe either fully assembled or just the cooked beef mixture separately. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. If the Fritos have softened too much, sprinkle some fresh Fritos or tortilla chips on top before heating to revive that crunch. Microwave works in a pinch, but the oven method really brings back that just-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even chicken can be substituted for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as you cook since poultry has a milder flavor.
What if I don’t have chipotle powder?
No worries. You can substitute smoked paprika with a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, or simply omit the chipotle powder for a milder casserole. The other spices carry plenty of flavor on their own.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative, cooked lentils, or sautéed mushrooms. Just keep the same seasonings to maintain that classic chili flavor.
How spicy is this casserole?
This Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe has a pleasant warmth from the chili and chipotle powders but isn’t overwhelmingly spicy. You can always adjust the spice levels to your taste by reducing or increasing those seasonings.
Is it okay if the Fritos get soft?
Some softening of the Fritos inside the casserole is expected and part of the dish’s charm. They soak up the savory sauce and add a delightful texture contrast when combined with the melted cheese. If you want extra crunch, add fresh Fritos just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe is a celebration of comfort food with all the flavors and textures you love, brought together in one easy-to-make dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want a little cheesy, crispy, savory happiness. Don’t wait to try it out—once you do, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Print
Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Frito Pie Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef with tomato sauce and spices, layered over a bed of crunchy Fritos and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together, it’s easy to make and full of bold, southwestern flavors.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasonings
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 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
Tomato Sauce Mixture
- 6 tablespoons tomato paste
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- ½ cup beef stock
Assembly
- 9 cups lightly crushed Fritos corn chips
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For Serving
- Sour cream, for serving
- Sliced scallions, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Add spices and tomato ingredients: Stir in chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, ground cumin, and chipotle powder until the beef is well coated. Then add tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef stock. Simmer the mixture for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Assemble the casserole: In a large casserole dish, spread an even layer of lightly crushed Fritos on the bottom. Pour the beef and tomato sauce mixture evenly over the Fritos. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm topped with sour cream and sliced scallions as desired.
Notes
- Lightly crushing the Fritos preserves some crunch while allowing them to absorb the sauce.
- Feel free to customize the spice levels by adjusting the chili powder and chipotle powder.
- For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the chipotle powder.
- This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or guacamole.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
