If you’re craving a dish that combines bold Tex-Mex flavors with comforting, cheesy goodness, you’ve got to try this Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe. It’s a wonderful, crowd-pleasing casserole that layers savory chili-spiced ground beef, crispy Fritos, and melted cheddar cheese into a dish that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this casserole delivers bright, spicy, and crunchy elements all baked into one irresistible comfort meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe lies in its simple, yet flavor-packed ingredients. Each component plays a key role—from the hearty ground beef to the zesty spices and that iconic Fritos crunch—everyone on your dinner table will love the layers of texture and taste.
- Ground beef (1 ½ pounds): The hearty base that soaks up all the spices and tomato flavors.
- Small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and a little crunch before cooking down.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Brings a fragrant warmth that deepens the chili flavor.
- Chili powder (1 tablespoon): Gives that classic chili-spiced kick to the beef mixture.
- Onion powder (1 ½ teaspoons): Boosts savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic powder (1 ½ teaspoons): Enhances garlic flavor throughout the casserole.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- Ground cumin (¾ teaspoon): Adds earthiness and warmth to the spice blend.
- Chipotle powder (½ teaspoon): A smoky punch that lifts the chili to the next level.
- Tomato paste (6 tablespoons): Concentrated tomato flavor to thicken and enrich the chili.
- Tomato sauce (1 15-ounce can): Keeps the chili moist and saucy.
- Beef broth (½ cup): Adds savory depth and helps simmer the chili gently.
- Fritos corn chips (9 cups, lightly crushed): The signature crunch that defines this casserole.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (3 cups): Melts beautifully to bind the layers together with creamy richness.
- Sour cream and sliced scallions (for serving): Fresh, cool toppings that balance the warm, spicy casserole.
How to Make Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Build the Chili
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and browning the ground beef with the diced onion until fully cooked and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from getting greasy, then stir in minced garlic along with chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, ground cumin, and chipotle powder. This spice blend infuses the beef with the smoky, warm flavors that are essential for that classic Frito pie taste. Add in the tomato paste and cook everything for about 2 minutes to deepen the flavor, then pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Let this simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the chili to thicken and flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Assemble Your Casserole Layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C), and grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Layer half of the lightly crushed Fritos on the bottom, which will give your casserole that signature salty crunch. Spoon half of the rich, simmered chili over the chips, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers once more: Fritos, chili, and cheese. This layering method makes sure every bite is loaded with the perfect combination of textures and flavors.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Cover the assembled casserole with foil and bake for 20 to 30 minutes until the chili is bubbling and the cheese has melted into a gooey, irresistible blanket. Remove the foil and bake for an extra 10 minutes to crisp up the top layer of Fritos, creating a satisfying crunch that perfectly contrasts the tender chili beneath. Once baked, it’s ready to come out of the oven and be topped with your favorite cool garnishes like sour cream and scallions before serving.
How to Serve Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
This casserole is simply fantastic on its own, but topping it with dollops of sour cream adds a creamy tang that cuts through the rich, spicy flavors. Sliced scallions bring fresh, oniony brightness and a pop of color. You can also add diced avocado or jalapeños if you like a bit of extra creaminess or heat. These simple garnishes elevate every spoonful and make the dish feel truly special.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad dressed in lime vinaigrette to bring freshness that balances the meal. Corn on the cob or a simple Mexican street corn salad also makes a perfect side with complementary flavors. If you want to keep it cozy, creamy mashed potatoes or a bowl of black beans and rice will round out your dinner beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe for a casual party, consider offering it in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a cute, personalized touch. You can also turn leftovers into loaded taco bowls by layering the reheated casserole over lettuce or rice and topping it with your favorite taco fixings. No matter how you present it, this dish is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to marry over time, making leftovers even more delicious! Just be sure to store your casserole tightly covered to keep the Fritos from becoming soggy.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if you want to save some for later. Wrap it tightly with foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your casserole in the oven at 350°F (177°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out. Bake until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, then uncover for the last few minutes to crisp up the top again. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but may soften the crunchy layers.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and makes the casserole a bit lighter. Just brown it thoroughly and follow the rest of the recipe as usual for delicious results.
How spicy is this Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe?
The recipe has a mild to moderate heat level thanks to chili powder and a touch of chipotle powder, which adds smoky warmth without overwhelming spice. You can adjust the chipotle amount to suit your preferred heat level.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time before baking?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole completely and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What if I don’t have Fritos? Can I substitute with another chip?
While Fritos corn chips are classic for this dish, you can substitute with other sturdy corn chips or tortilla chips. Just choose chips that hold up well to moisture so your casserole doesn’t get soggy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely. This Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe is a great make-ahead meal. Prepare the chili in advance, assemble the casserole, and either bake it right away or refrigerate it for later. It reheats beautifully for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a big warm hug on a plate—familiar, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to impress a crowd, it’s a straightforward recipe that delivers big taste with minimal fuss. Give it a try for your next dinner and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved classic in your home!
Print
Easy Frito Pie Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Frito Pie Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef chili with crunchy Fritos corn chips and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together, it’s layered and baked until bubbly and crispy on top, then served with cool sour cream and fresh scallions for added flavor.
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
Chili Base
- 6 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- ½ cup beef broth
Casserole Layers
- 9 cups lightly crushed Fritos corn chips
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For Serving
- Sour cream, for serving
- Sliced scallions, for serving
Instructions
- Make Chili: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions until fully cooked. Drain off any excess grease to keep the chili from being too oily. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, ground cumin, chipotle powder, and tomato paste. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes to let the spices release their flavors. Add the tomato sauce and beef broth, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and blend flavors.
- Assemble Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Begin layering by spreading half of the crushed Fritos evenly on the bottom. Next, spread half of the prepared chili over the chips, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers once more to create a double-layered casserole.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to crisp up nicely.
- Serve: Once baked, serve the hot casserole topped with dollops of sour cream and garnished with sliced scallions to add a fresh, tangy contrast to the cheesy, spicy layers.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust the chipotle powder amount according to your spice preference.
- For extra crunch, add fresh Fritos right before serving.
- The casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; bake the next day adding extra baking time if cold from the fridge.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
