Simple Frito Pie Recipe

Welcome to a comforting classic with a twist – an easy Frito pie recipe that is sure to become a family favorite! This hearty dish combines seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and the satisfying crunch of Fritos corn chips to create a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

With just a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you can whip up this delicious Frito pie in no time. The secret lies in the flavorful enchilada sauce, which adds a tangy kick that takes this dish to the next level. Whether you’re hosting unexpected guests or looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner option, this recipe is a surefire winner.

Customizable and versatile, this Frito pie can easily be tailored to suit your family’s preferences. From swapping out the ground beef for turkey or chicken to adding extra spice with jalapeños, the possibilities are endless. So, gather your loved ones around the table and savor the comforting flavors of this easy Frito pie recipe that’s bound to bring smiles all around.

Quick Benefits

• Convenient: Easily prepared ahead of time for quick weeknight dinners or to entertain guests.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or preferences, such as using ground turkey, black beans, or plant-based protein.
• Versatile: Can be served as a complete meal or as a fun party dish with a toppings bar for personalization.
• Crave-worthy: Fritos add a unique crunch and flavor that enhances the dish, making it a satisfying and memorable meal.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Frito Pie Recipe Recipe

• Effortless Crowd-Pleaser: This Frito Pie recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or unexpected guests, as it’s easy to make with simple pantry staples and always impresses a crowd.
• Hearty and Comforting: The combination of seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and crunchy Fritos creates a satisfying and comforting meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or potluck dinners.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the meat mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to two days, making it a convenient option for meal prepping or planning ahead for dinner.
• Versatile and Customizable: This recipe can be easily customized based on personal preferences, whether it’s using different proteins, beans, or spicing it up with additional ingredients like jalapeños or green chiles.
• Creative Serving Options: Serve Frito Pie in individual Fritos bags for a fun twist at parties or set up a toppings bar to let everyone customize their portion, making it a versatile dish for various occasions.
• Unique Flavor and Crunch: While other corn or tortilla chips can be substituted, the distinct crunch and flavor of Fritos truly elevate this dish, adding a unique and delicious element to the recipe.
• Pairing Suggestions: Pair Frito Pie with a side salad, fresh salsa, or extra guacamole to balance the flavors and textures of the dish, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: Easily make this dish vegetarian by swapping the ground beef with plant-based protein or additional beans and ensuring the taco seasoning is vegetarian-friendly, making it inclusive for all dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Simple Frito Pie Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 1 green onion, chopped
• 1 package taco seasoning mix
• Sour cream for garnish
• Prepared guacamole for garnish
• 1 small onion, peeled and diced
• 1 can (15 ounce) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 ounce) enchilada sauce
• 1 bag (9.25 ounce) Fritos corn chips, divided
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided

How to Make Simple Frito Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 350ºF and coat a 9×13-inch glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet, crumble ground beef and cook with diced onions over medium heat until beef is fully browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Mix in the taco seasoning and water, simmer for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combine with Sauce and Beans

Combine the enchilada sauce and pinto beans in the skillet, stirring to combine.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spread 4 cups of Fritos in the baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Spread meat mixture evenly over the cheese and top with the remaining cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes until heated and bubbling.

Step 7: Add Final Garnishes

Top the casserole with the remaining Fritos. Allow it to cool slightly, then serve with chopped green onions, sour cream, and guacamole.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Frito Pie, you can refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the dish cool down to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the microwave or oven until heated through.

If you plan to prepare the Frito Pie ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole without the final layer of Fritos, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for several hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the final layer of Fritos and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed. This make-ahead option is convenient for busy days or when entertaining guests.

For additional customization or serving suggestions, consider setting up a toppings bar with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced black olives, jalapeños, and extra sour cream and guacamole. This allows everyone to personalize their Frito Pie servings and adds a fun element to mealtime or gatherings.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider substituting the lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This swap will reduce the fat content while still providing a flavorful protein base for the Frito Pie.

If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with an additional can of beans or use a plant-based meat substitute. This adjustment will make the dish suitable for vegetarians while maintaining the heartiness and texture of the original recipe.

To add more spice to the Frito Pie, incorporate a can of diced green chiles or jalapeños into the meat mixture. These ingredients will bring a kick of heat and extra flavor to the dish, perfect for those who enjoy a spicier meal.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Frito Pie experience, consider serving individual portions in small Fritos bags opened on their side for a fun and interactive twist. Guests can customize their walking tacos with toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced black olives, jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole. This unique presentation adds a playful element to your meal and makes it perfect for parties or casual gatherings.

For a more traditional approach, serve your Frito Pie with a side salad dressed in a zesty lime vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish. The refreshing crunch of the salad complements the hearty flavors of the pie, creating a well-rounded meal. Additionally, offering fresh salsa or extra guacamole on the side provides a burst of freshness and creaminess that enhances the overall dining experience.

FAQs for Simple Frito Pie Recipe

Can I use a different type of corn chips or tortilla chips instead of Fritos?

Yes, you can use other corn chips or tortilla chips as a substitute, but Fritos provide a unique crunch and flavor that complements this dish.

What are some good side dishes to serve with Frito Pie?

Frito Pie pairs well with a side salad, fresh salsa, or extra guacamole to balance the flavors and textures in the dish.

Can I prepare the meat mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, layer it with the chips and cheese and heat as directed.

How can I customize the Frito Pie to suit my taste preferences?

Feel free to add jalapeños, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or hot sauce to customize the dish to your taste.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this easy Frito pie recipe is not only a simple and delicious dinner option but also a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your family’s tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you follow the recipe as is or make substitutions to make it lighter, spicier, or even vegetarian-friendly, this Frito pie is sure to become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation.

With its hearty flavors and satisfying crunch, Frito pie is a comforting meal that brings people together. So gather your loved ones around the table, serve up this tasty dish, and watch as smiles and satisfied bellies abound. Don’t forget to have fun with the toppings and presentation – whether you opt for a toppings bar or individual walking tacos, the possibilities are endless. Embrace the simplicity and warmth of this easy Frito pie recipe and enjoy the delicious memories you create with each comforting bite.

Simple Frito Pie Recipe

Transform simple ingredients into a comforting family meal with this hearty Frito Pie, featuring seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and a satisfying crunch of Fritos.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time30 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time50 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings8 Servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 green onion, chopped
• 1 package taco seasoning mix
• Sour cream for garnish
• Prepared guacamole for garnish
• 1 small onion, peeled and diced
• 1 can (15 ounce) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 ounce) enchilada sauce
• 1 bag (9.25 ounce) Fritos corn chips, divided
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided

Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat oven to 350ºF and coat a 9×13-inch glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet, crumble ground beef and cook with diced onions over medium heat until beef is fully browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Season the Mixture: Mix in the taco seasoning and water, simmer for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally.
4. Combine with Sauce and Beans: Combine the enchilada sauce and pinto beans in the skillet, stirring to combine.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread 4 cups of Fritos in the baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Spread meat mixture evenly over the cheese and top with the remaining cheese.
6. Bake the Casserole: Place in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes until heated and bubbling.
7. Add Final Garnishes: Top the casserole with the remaining Fritos. Allow it to cool slightly, then serve with chopped green onions, sour cream, and guacamole.