Frito Pie

Frito Pie is the ultimate comfort food that brings a smile to everyone’s face. It’s a deliciously simple dish that combines crunchy Fritos, hearty chili, and melted cheese. Perfect for busy days or casual gatherings, Frito Pie is easily customizable to suit your taste, making it a favorite for family and friends.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 450
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg

Why Make Frito Pie

Frito Pie is a crowd-pleaser that brings together flavors and textures in perfect harmony. It’s not only quick to prepare but also highly versatile; you can easily adapt it to your dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you go for the classic chili or opt for a vegetarian version, Frito Pie delivers satisfaction in every bite.

How to Make Frito Pie Step by Step

Ingredients

1 bag of Fritos corn chips
1 can of chili (with or without beans)
1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1/2 cup of diced onions
1/2 cup of jalapeños (sliced, optional)
Sour cream (for topping, optional)
Salsa (for topping, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a baking dish, spread a layer of Fritos.
3. Pour the chili over the Fritos evenly.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the chili.
5. Add diced onions and jalapeños, if using.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, and top with sour cream and salsa if desired.

How to Serve Frito Pie

Frito Pie can stand alone as a hearty meal, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with a light side salad or some fresh guacamole. For those who like a bit of crunch, tortilla chips and salsa make a great accompaniment. You could also pair it with a cool, creamy coleslaw for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

How to Store Frito Pie

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the Frito Pie in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated oven until heated through. You can also freeze Frito Pie for up to a month; just ensure it’s well-wrapped. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warm.

Expert Tips for Cooking Frito Pie

• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese; pepper jack or Monterey Jack add a nice kick.
• If you like it spicy, add more jalapeños, or mix in diced green chilies.
• For a lighter version, use turkey chili and reduced-fat cheese.
• Don’t skip the sour cream; it adds creaminess and balances the dish’s flavors.
• Making it ahead? Assemble it and store it in the refrigerator without baking until you’re ready to serve.

Delicious Variations of Frito Pie

• Spicy Frito Pie: Incorporate spicy chili and add a drizzle of hot sauce on top.
• Vegetarian Frito Pie: Use a meatless chili and load it with your favorite sautéed veggies for added flavor.
• Tex-Mex Frito Pie: Layer with black beans, corn, and a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing twist.

Conclusion

Frito Pie is a fantastic dish that’s bursting with flavor while being incredibly easy to make. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, it’s bound to become a hit at your next gathering. So gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!