Name: Easy Frito Pie Casserole: A Fun Twist on a Classic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned); 4 cups Fritos corn chips; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); Sour cream (optional, for serving); Sliced jalapeños (optional, for serving)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Frito Pie Casserole is a crowd-pleaser with its bold flavors, crunchy texture, and satisfying layers of deliciousness. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal, a game-day dish, or a comforting dinner, this casserole delivers. It combines savory ground beef, flavorful seasonings, melty cheese, and crispy Fritos for the ultimate comfort food experience. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Taco seasoning
Tomato sauce
Diced tomatoes with green chilies
Black beans
Corn
Fritos corn chips
Shredded cheddar cheese
Green onions
Sour cream (optional)
Jalapeños (optional)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Add Flavorings: Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Layer the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, spread a layer of Fritos at the bottom. Pour the beef mixture over the chips and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and top with chopped green onions, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder to the beef mixture.
Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or shredded chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
Bean-Free: Omit black beans if you prefer a bean-free casserole.
Extra Cheesy: Mix different cheese varieties like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for added flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a meat substitute or extra beans for a meat-free version.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How can I keep the Fritos crunchy?

For the crispiest texture, add an extra handful of Fritos on top of the casserole right before serving.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.

What sides go well with Frito Pie Casserole?

It pairs well with a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Try Mexican blend, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Most Fritos are gluten-free, but double-check the packaging and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I make it less spicy?

Use mild diced tomatoes with green chilies and reduce or omit the taco seasoning.

Can I add extra toppings?

Yes! Try avocado, salsa, or olives for even more flavor.

Can I use leftover chili for this recipe?

Definitely! Leftover chili makes a great substitute for the beef mixture and adds even more depth of flavor.

What meat alternatives work best?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu can work well as substitutes for beef.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the beef mixture as directed, then layer in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

Conclusion

This Easy Frito Pie Casserole is a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, cheesy, and crispy dish. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this fun twist on a classic will leave everyone coming back for more. Try it today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!

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