Frito Pie is a Southern classic that’s all about bold flavors and crunchy, cheesy goodness. It’s a simple dish—just layers of crispy Fritos, hearty chili, and melty cheese—but it delivers big on comfort.
you’re making it for a quick dinner or a game-day snack, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
I’ve made plenty of Frito Pies, both in restaurant kitchens and at home, and I’ve learned that the best ones keep it simple.
Let the chili be the star, and don’t forget those bottom-layer Fritos—they soak up all the flavor while staying just crispy enough. Want to kick it up a notch? A little hot sauce or pickled jalapeños will do the trick.
This is the kind of no-fuss recipe that feels like home. So grab a bag of Fritos and let’s get cooking!
Why This Is My Go-To Recipe?
- Quick and Convenient: After a long day, whipping up Frito Pie requires minimal effort, yet delivers maximum satisfaction.
- Family Bonding: Preparing this dish has become a cherished activity in our household, sparking joy and togetherness.
- Versatile Ingredients: I’ve experimented by adding jalapeños for an extra kick, tailoring it to our spice-loving preferences.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of flavors and textures provides a comforting embrace, reminiscent of cherished childhood meals.
Frito Pie Recipe
Frito Pie is a fun and easy comfort food made with hearty chili, crunchy Fritos, and melty cheese. Served right in the bag, it's a perfect crowd-pleaser for game days, parties, or a quick dinner. Top with diced onions or jalapeños for extra flavor!
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Calories: 673kcal
Servings: 8
Equipment
- Small Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 lb. ground chuck
- 3 cloves garlic minced (optional)
- 1 12- to 4-oz. can tomato sauce
- 1 10- oz. can Ro-tel diced tomatoes and chilies
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. ground oregano
- 1 Tbsp. ground cumin
- 2 Tbsp. chili powder plus more to taste
- 1 14- oz. can kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 1 14- oz. can pinto beans drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup masa corn flour or regular corn meal
- 1/2 cup warm water
- Individual bags of Fritos
- Grated sharp cheddar cheese
- Diced red onion optional
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck and garlic in a pot over medium-high heat.
- Add tomato sauce, Ro-tel, salt, oregano, cumin, and chili powder. Cover and simmer on low for 30 minutes.
- Stir in the beans, cover, and simmer for another 20 minutes.
- Mix masa with warm water, then add to the chili. Stir and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Slice Frito bags open lengthwise.
- Fill with chili, cheese, and diced onion (if using). Serve immediately!
Nutrition
Calories: 673kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 47g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 11g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 89mg | Sodium: 714mg | Potassium: 389mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 887IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 383mg | Iron: 3mg
