Frito Pie Casserole Recipe

Previous Next

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe makes 8 servings. Adjusting ingredient amounts will not change cooking times or steps. Not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 pound ground chuck
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 oz) can sweet corn, drained
• 1 (1 oz) envelope taco seasoning mix
• 1 chipotle chili in adobo sauce, finely chopped, plus 1 tbsp adobo sauce
• 8 oz sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
• 2 cups corn chips (such as Fritos)
• Sliced scallions, for garnish
• Sour cream, guacamole, and salsa, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and gather all ingredients.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground chuck. Break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon and cook until browned but slightly underdone, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Stir frequently until the beef is fully cooked and the vegetables are softened, roughly 4 minutes.
4. Stir in the chicken stock, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn, taco seasoning, chopped chipotle, and adobo sauce. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 7-10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded Cheddar cheese.
6. Transfer the beef mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar on top, followed by an even layer of corn chips.
7. Bake uncovered for 18-20 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese has melted and begun to brown.
8. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with sliced scallions. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa on the side.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 429
• Fat: 24g (30% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 10g (48% DV)
• Cholesterol: 78mg (26% DV)
• Sodium: 837mg (36% DV)
• Carbohydrates: 27g (10% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (19% DV)
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 27g (55% DV)
• Vitamin C: 20mg (22% DV)
• Calcium: 281mg (22% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (18% DV)
• Potassium: 642mg (14% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Actual nutritional intake will vary depending on garnishes and serving size.

The Origins of Frito Pie Casserole

The Frito Pie Casserole has its roots in the American Southwest, particularly in Texas and New Mexico, where Tex-Mex cuisine thrives. Originally, the dish began as a simple Frito pie served in a paper bag, combining chili, cheese, and Fritos corn chips for a convenient, hearty meal. Over time, home cooks and restaurants adapted the concept into a casserole form, layering ingredients in a baking dish to serve families more easily and offer a visually appealing presentation. This transformation allowed the dish to evolve from a casual snack to a full entre suitable for gatherings and weeknight dinners.

Regional Characteristics

Frito Pie Casserole reflects the flavors of the Southwest, with smoky, spicy, and savory notes. Traditional Tex-Mex elements, like ground beef, chili, corn, and Cheddar cheese, are combined with crispy corn chips for texture. Regional variations can include the addition of chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, or local beans, reflecting the personal touch of each household. In New Mexico, for instance, green chilies may replace or complement the chipotle, giving the dish a distinctive heat and depth that differs from its Texas counterpart.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While Frito Pie Casserole shares similarities with chili cheese casseroles and taco bakes, it is distinguished by its signature Fritos layer. Unlike standard chili bakes that rely solely on a topping of shredded cheese or breadcrumbs, the inclusion of corn chips provides a unique crunch that balances the soft, cheesy interior. Additionally, the casserole version allows the flavors to meld during baking, offering a cohesive yet textured experience that individual servings of Frito pie in a bag cannot replicate.

Where Its Typically Served

This casserole is a staple at casual family dinners, potlucks, and game-day gatherings. Its ease of preparation and ability to feed multiple people make it popular for social events, from backyard barbecues to holiday dinners. Restaurants in Texas and New Mexico often feature Frito Pie Casserole as a hearty side or main dish, sometimes offering toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa to customize the dish according to taste.

Interesting Facts

• Frito Pie Casserole can trace its lineage to a convenience snack sold in the 1930s at fairs and school events in Texas.
• Using a single chipotle pepper in adobo sauce provides a deep smoky flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Despite its simplicity, the dish is versatile: vegetarians often substitute meat with beans or plant-based alternatives while retaining its iconic flavor.
• Some families pass down their own secret spice blends for Frito Pie Casserole, making each version slightly different but equally beloved.
• The casserole adaptation allows for a more uniform presentation and easier portioning compared to the traditional bagged Frito pie.

FAQ about Frito Pie Casserole Recipe

Comments