Frito Pie Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed with its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• Chili:
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon chili powder (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup chili beans
• Toppings:
• 1/4 cup diced onion (or as needed)
• 1/4 cup sliced jalapeo (or to taste)
• 1 cup sharp Cheddar cheese (or as needed)
• 1 (9.25 ounce) bag corn chips, such as Fritos Scoops!

Directions

Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard the grease.

Step 2: Stir in water, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, and garlic powder. Continue stirring until well combined.

Step 3: Stir in the chili beans and cook the mixture for about 3 minutes, or until heated through.

Step 4: Divide the corn chips into 4 bowls.

Step 5: Top each bowl of corn chips with the chili mixture.

Step 6: Sprinkle diced onions, jalapeo slices, and sharp Cheddar cheese on top of each bowl as desired.

Step 7: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 serving (of 4 total servings)

• Calories: 762
• Total Fat: 51g (65% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 18g (88% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 107mg (36% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 919mg (40% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 44g (16% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (16% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 35g (69% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 9mg (10% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 527mg (41% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (19% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 547mg (12% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Story Behind Frito Pie

Frito Pie is a quintessential American comfort food with roots stretching back to the mid-20th century. While its exact origin is debated, most sources trace it to the Southwestern United States, particularly Texas and New Mexico, where chili con carne and corn-based snacks were widely popular. The dish emerged as a convenient, portable meal, combining Fritos corn chips with a hearty chili topping, often served directly in the chip bag for quick eating at fairs, football games, and drive-ins. It quickly became a beloved casual dish thanks to its simplicity and satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

Regional Variations

Frito Pies preparation can vary significantly depending on the region. In Texas, the chili tends to be spicier with more robust seasoning, sometimes including beans, while in New Mexico, green chilies are commonly added for a distinct local flavor. Some regions prefer baking the assembled pie to melt the cheese, while others stick to the original stovetop method with chili poured over crispy corn chips. These variations highlight local tastes and ingredient availability, making Frito Pie a versatile dish that reflects the culinary culture of each area.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Though it shares elements with nachos and chili cheese fries, Frito Pie is unique in its simplicity and presentation. Unlike nachos, which typically feature layered chips and multiple toppings, Frito Pie usually involves a single generous layer of corn chips topped with chili, onions, jalapeos, and cheese. It also differs from chili cheese fries because it uses Fritos or similar corn chips instead of potatoes, giving the dish a crunch and corn-forward flavor that sets it apart. This combination of convenience, texture, and flavor balance distinguishes Frito Pie from other Tex-Mex comfort foods.

Where Its Commonly Served

Frito Pie is most often found at casual gatherings, including football tailgates, state fairs, school fundraisers, and local diners. It is considered a staple for game day menus in Texas and the surrounding Southwestern states. Some restaurants have even elevated the dish, offering gourmet versions with specialty chili, artisan cheeses, or additional toppings like avocado, sour cream, or smoked meats. Its accessibility and ability to satisfy a crowd have cemented its reputation as both a nostalgic and universally loved snack.

Interesting Facts

• The dish is sometimes called a "walking taco" because it is served directly in the chip bag, allowing it to be eaten on the go.
• Frito Pies popularity surged during the 1960s drive-in era, when quick, hand-held meals were in high demand.
• The recipe is highly customizable: ground beef, turkey, or even vegetarian chili can be used as a base, making it adaptable to dietary preferences.
• Despite its simple ingredients, Frito Pie has inspired numerous regional contests and festivals celebrating chili and comfort foods.
• It is recognized not just for flavor, but also for its playful combination of texturescrispy chips, hearty chili, and melted cheese.

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