Looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love? Look no further than this Easy Frito Pie Casserole! Bursting with savory flavors and topped with gooey melted cheese, this dish is a comforting classic that comes together in just 45 minutes. With layers of seasoned ground beef, zesty chili beans, and crunchy Fritos, it’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Get ready to impress your taste buds and make your dinner routine a whole lot more exciting—your new favorite recipe is just a few steps away!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 bag (10 oz) Fritos corn chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the pound of ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onions to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the can of chili beans (including the liquid), the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice), and the tablespoon of chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- In a large casserole dish, layer half of the Fritos corn chips at the bottom. This will create a crunchy base for your casserole.
- Pour half of the beef and bean mixture over the Fritos, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture, ensuring it covers the surface.
- Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining Fritos on top of the cheese, followed by the rest of the beef mixture, and finally topping it off with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and to keep moisture in. Place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set slightly for easier serving.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional toppings if desired, such as sour cream, jalapeños, or chopped cilantro. Enjoy your Easy Frito Pie Casserole!
Tips
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or ingredients, such as black olives, diced bell peppers, or corn, to enhance the flavor and texture of your casserole.
- Use Leftover Meat: If you have leftover cooked meat, such as rotisserie chicken or ground turkey, you can easily substitute it for the ground beef to save time and add variety.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Experiment with different types of cheese! While cheddar is a classic choice, Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a delicious twist to your casserole.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve with a side salad or some fresh guacamole and tortilla chips to round out your meal and add some freshness to the plate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 544kcal
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 33g
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 80mg
