Frito Pie Casserole

Name: Frito Pie Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 diced onion; 2 minced garlic cloves; 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika; 0.5 cup beef stock; 4 cups Fritos original scoops; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Author: Noah Reed

Published: May 9, 2025

Delicious Frito Pie Casserole served in a rustic dish garnished with toppings.

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Frito Pie Casserole is a delightful and satisfying dish that captures the essence of comfort food. With layers of flavorful ground beef, zesty seasonings, and crispy Fritos, this casserole is sure to tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul.

The melty cheddar cheese on top adds a creamy texture that perfectly contrasts with the crunchy Fritos, creating an irresistibly delicious experience. Making this casserole is a breeze with our step-by-step instructions, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight meal or a fun gathering with friends.

You’ll love how this recipe combines ease of preparation with family-friendly appeal. In just one dish, you can serve a hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor and requires minimal cleanup. It’s a great way to please everyone at the table, from kids to adults, and can easily become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best aspects of Frito Pie Casserole is how simple it is to prepare. With easy prep steps, you can whip it up in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The recipe calls for minimal ingredients that you likely already have at home, which means less time spent shopping and more time enjoying the cozy atmosphere of a home-cooked meal with your loved ones.

This dish is also incredibly versatile, appealing to everyone from picky eaters to adventurers in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or feeding a hungry family, this casserole delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients for Frito Pie Casserole

To create this mouthwatering Frito Pie Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound ground beef: Rich and savory, a perfect base for your casserole.
1 diced onion: Adds a sweet and aromatic dimension.
2 minced garlic cloves: Provides a delightful punch of flavor.
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: The tangy backdrop that binds the dish.
1 tablespoon chili powder: Infuses the casserole with warmth and spice.
1 teaspoon cumin: Offers an earthy depth to the flavor profile.
0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky richness.
0.5 cup beef stock: Enhances the overall beefy flavor.
4 cups Fritos original scoops: The crunchy star of the show.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Helps create a gooey, satisfying topping.

Step-by-Step Directions for Frito Pie Casserole

Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion until no pink remains. Drain most of the fat, leaving about a tablespoon for added flavor.
Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and beef stock. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as desired.
Layer Ingredients in Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9 by 13 inch baking dish, start by placing 3 cups of Fritos for the bottom layer.
Build Your Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly over the Fritos, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. For the finishing touch, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of whole Fritos on top.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Frito Pie Casserole with optional toppings like sour cream, diced avocado, or a drizzle of salsa for a delightful finish.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Frito Pie Casserole, consider incorporating optional extras like black beans for added protein or corn for sweetness and texture. Using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, can introduce a spicy kick. If you want to save some time, you could also prep the meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a quick bake later. Chopping onions and garlic in advance or using pre-minced garlic can make your cooking process smoother and faster.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Frito Pie Casserole is comforting on its own, yet it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness or alongside a bowl of guacamole and tortilla chips for a fiesta-themed meal. A side of Mexican rice or beans also complements the flavors perfectly, making it a well-rounded spread for casual gatherings or family dinners.

Nutritional Information

This hearty casserole provides a satisfying balance of protein from the ground beef and cheese, along with carbohydrates from the Fritos. Each serving is rich in flavor while offering around 500 calories, making it an indulgent yet fulfilling choice for dinner. Of course, you can customize portions to suit your dietary preferences, dialing back on cheese or swapping in leaner ground turkey for a lighter option.

Storing Tips & Variations for Frito Pie Casserole

If there are leftovers—though they’re sure to be few—you can store Frito Pie Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave for a quick lunch or snack. For those looking to create a healthier version, consider using baked tortilla chips, reduced-fat cheese, or even cauliflower for a low-carb twist. You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a meatless option.

Conclusion for Frito Pie Casserole

Frito Pie Casserole is a delicious dish that brings everyone together around the table for a hearty meal that’s simple to prepare. With irresistible flavors and textures, it’s an instant crowd-pleaser. Don’t wait to try this delightful recipe; gather your loved ones and savor this comforting casserole tonight!

FAQs

1. Can I make Frito Pie Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and layer the casserole in advance. Simply pop it in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.

2. What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option.

3. Can I freeze Frito Pie Casserole?
Absolutely! Before baking, wrap tightly and freeze. When ready to eat, follow the baking instructions directly from the freezer, adding extra time for cooking.

4. Is there a way to make it spicier?
Definitely! You can add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture or use spicy cheese. Chili flakes or hot sauce can also enhance the heat level.

5. What are some good toppings for Frito Pie Casserole?
You can get creative with toppings! Consider sour cream, avocado, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even fresh cilantro to add some freshness.