Frito pie is a classic casserole that combines delicious chili, cheddar cheese, and of course Fritos! The combination of crunchy, salty, cheesy, and spicy is an amazing one that your family will absolutely love!

The first time I heard of Frito Pie I had no idea what they were talking about. When I learned that it involved chili, cheese and Fritos I knew that it was an idea I could get behind!

Fritos are one of my favorite chips so if I can work them into a casserole and call it dinner I’m a happy girl… and so are my kids!

This is a simple to make casserole that is perfect for a weeknight dinner!

How can I make this casserole quickly?

I love a meal that comes together in minutes on a weeknight and there are are a few ways to make this super quick!

Use leftover chili- You can use any chili in this recipe, your favorite recipe can be swapped out for what is in mine. You can make extra when you whip up a pot of your favorite, or make this with your leftovers. You could even use a canned chili if there is one that you like! By having the chili made ahead of time all you have to do is throw on the toppings and bake!

Use shredded cheese- I am a fan of cheese shredded off the block, it melts really well. However for the sake of time pre-shredded cheese is a perfect option that will help you put this together with a quickness!

What variations can I make of this Frito Pie?

Use your favorite chili– Like I mentioned before, you can use any chili you love in this recipe. Feel free to use your own favorite or tweak mine to your tastes. Don’t like beans? Leave them out! Want a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more beans or quinoa. Make it what you want!

Use seasoned Fritos– Add a little more spice by using chili cheese flavored Fritos! You could also swap the Fritos out for other chips like Doritos (Then I think it wouldn’t technically be a Frito pie though!)

Use a different cheese– I’m a fan of cheddar for this recipe but you can also use pepper jack or Monterey jack for a different flavor. You could even use a queso fresco if you want! Different cheese offers a different flavor and even a slightly different texture.

Use a different meat– You can easily swap out the ground beef in this recipe with ground chicken, ground turkey, or vegetarian crumbles!

Now onto the recipe! Get ready to create this deliciousness!

How do I make this Frito Pie?

Here’s what you’ll need-

1 lb Lean Ground Beef

1 Med. Onion- diced

1 Tbsp. Olive Oil

1 Packet Taco Seasoning

1 Can Red Enchilada Sauce (or tomato sauce for less spice)

1 Can of Beans (Black or Pinto work best) drained and rinsed

1 Can Diced Tomatoes

1 tsp Salt

1/2 tsp Garlic Powder

1/2 tsp Onion Powder

2 tsp Minced Garlic

3 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese

4 Cups Corn Chips

Preheat your oven to 350

In a large pot heat your olive oil and add in the diced onion and minced garlic. Saute over med heat for about 10 minutes or until the onion translucent and soft.

Add in the ground beef and salt and cook through, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.

Drain the ground beef if necessary.

Add in your taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, beans, onion powder, garlic powder, and diced tomatoes. Stir together and heat over med/high heat until heated through.

Now we’re going to assemble the casserole.

Pour your chili mixture in the bottom of a 13×9 in pan.

Now sprinkle on 1/2 of your shredded cheese.

Spread your Fritos across the top of the cheese, and then top them with the remaining shredded cheese.

Pop the casserole in the oven for 18-20 minutes or until your cheese is completely melted.

Scoop out and serve! You can top it with sour cream, green onions, or any other toppings that you love on chili or tacos!