Classic Frito Pie
Classic Frito Pie is a delicious and comforting dish that brings a taste of the Southwest right to your kitchen. This simple recipe combines savory ground beef, tasty beans, and crunchy Fritos, topped with melted cheese. It’s perfect for gatherings, game nights, or a cozy dinner at home.
Why Make This Recipe
Frito Pie is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal cooking skills and can be prepared in less than an hour. It’s a great way to use ingredients you might already have at home. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spiciness to your liking.
How to Make Classic Frito Pie
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Taco seasoning
- Beans
- Shredded cheese
- Fritos
- Salsa
- Chili sauce
- Onion
- Tomatoes
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
Directions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and drain the excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning and follow the package instructions.
- Stir in the beans, salsa, chili sauce, diced onions, tomatoes, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Cook until everything is heated through.
- In a serving dish, layer Fritos, the beef mixture, and top with shredded cheese.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Classic Frito Pie
Serve Classic Frito Pie warm in a large dish. You can also add extra toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado for added flavor. It’s perfect as a main dish and goes well with a simple side salad or corn on the side.
How to Store Classic Frito Pie
To store leftovers, allow the Frito Pie to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven when ready to eat. However, it’s best to keep the Fritos separate until serving, to maintain their crunchiness.
Tips to Make Classic Frito Pie
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- Experiment with different cheese types like pepper jack for extra flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative or additional beans.
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Variation
You can make a slow-cooker version of Frito Pie by combining all the ingredients in the slow cooker and letting it cook on low for 4-6 hours. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
FAQs
Q1: Can I freeze Classic Frito Pie?
A1: Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Q2: What kind of beans can I use?
A2: You can use any type of beans you like! Black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans all work well.
Q3: How spicy is Classic Frito Pie?
A3: The spiciness depends on the taco seasoning and the salsa used. You can choose mild options for a milder dish or spicy ones for more heat.
