why make this recipe
Tex-Mex Frito Pie is a fun and delicious dish that combines all the flavors of traditional Tex-Mex cuisine into one satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in. It’s easy to prepare and guarantees to please both kids and adults alike with its crunchy chips, savory beef, and gooey cheese.
how to make Tex-Mex Frito Pie
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Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chilies
- 2 cups Fritos corn chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños
- 1 tsp taco seasoning
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chili beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a baking dish, layer half of the Fritos, then top with the beef mixture, half of the cheese, and half of the onions and jalapeños. Repeat the layers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot topped with sour cream and cilantro.
how to serve Tex-Mex Frito Pie
Serve your Tex-Mex Frito Pie hot with a dollop of sour cream on top and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. You can also serve it with extra jalapeños or salsa on the side for those who like an added kick.
how to store Tex-Mex Frito Pie
If you have leftovers, store Tex-Mex Frito Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving again.
tips to make Tex-Mex Frito Pie
- For a spicier version, add more jalapeños or use hot taco seasoning.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a healthier option.
- Try adding other toppings like avocado, diced tomatoes, or tortilla strips for extra flavor and crunch.
variation
For a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and use black beans or more chili beans. You can also add additional vegetables like bell peppers or corn.
FAQs
Can I make Tex-Mex Frito Pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and layer the pie in advance. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, maybe adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of Fritos?
If you want a different crunch, you can use tortilla chips or corn chips instead of Fritos. However, keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly.
Can I freeze Tex-Mex Frito Pie?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Make sure it’s covered well to avoid freezer burn. When you want to enjoy it, defrost it overnight in the fridge and then bake it as per the directions.
Tex-Mex Frito Pie
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Can be substituted with ground turkey or plant-based alternative.
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans Can also use black beans for a vegetarian version.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chilies
- 2 cups Fritos corn chips Can substitute with tortilla chips or corn chips.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños Increase amount for a spicier version.
- 1 tsp taco seasoning Use hot taco seasoning for more heat.
- to taste sour cream For serving.
- to taste chopped cilantro For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chili beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Assembly and Baking
- In a baking dish, layer half of the Fritos, then top with the beef mixture, half of the cheese, and half of the onions and jalapeños. Repeat the layers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.