Frito Pie is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, crunchy, cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings. With its layers of crispy corn chips, rich chili, and melted cheese, this Tex-Mex classic delivers big flavors with minimal effort.
If you’re craving something satisfying, quick, and easy, this Frito Pie recipe has you covered. Let’s get cooking!
What is Frito Pie?
Frito Pie is a popular American casserole-style dish made with layers of Fritos corn chips, homemade chili, cheese, and your favorite toppings. Originating from the Southwest, particularly Texas and New Mexico, Frito Pie is beloved for its bold flavors, crunchy texture, and quick preparation.
Traditionally, it was even served right inside the Frito bag at fairs and sporting events—a fun, handheld version still enjoyed today.
Ingredients You’ll Need
✔ 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or olive oil)
✔ ½ small onion, finely diced
✔ 2 cloves garlic, minced
✔ 1 lb (450g) ground beef
✔ Salt and pepper, to taste
✔ 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
✔ ½ teaspoon cumin
✔ 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles or chile verde
✔ 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
✔ 1 can (15 oz) beans of choice (pinto, black, or kidney beans)
✔ 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
✔ ½ cup crushed tomatoes
✔ ¼ cup water
✔ 4 cups Fritos corn chips
✔ 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Optional Toppings
✔ Sour cream
✔ Sliced jalapeños
✔ Diced tomatoes
✔ Green onions
✔ Fresh cilantro
How to Make Frito Pie
1. Prepare the Chili
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions have softened and turned translucent.
Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for about 7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
2. Add the Sauce Ingredients
Stir in the diced green chiles, diced tomatoes, and beans of your choice. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
Next, add the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, and ¼ cup of water. Mix everything together, bring it to a gentle simmer, and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt or spices as needed.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the chili to simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Assemble the Frito Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, start with a generous layer of Fritos corn chips. Spoon the chili evenly over the chips, followed by a layer of shredded cheese. Add more Fritos on top and finish with another layer of cheese.
4. Bake Until Bubbly
Bake the Frito Pie uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
5. Add Toppings and Serve
Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes, then top with your favorite toppings—sour cream, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, green onions, or fresh cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
✔ Serve warm straight from the oven as a main dish or hearty snack
✔ Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or game-day parties
✔ Customize your toppings to suit your taste
Why You’ll Love This Frito Pie
✔ Ready in under 40 minutes
✔ Combines bold, cheesy, and crunchy textures
✔ Perfectly customizable with your favorite toppings
✔ Great for feeding a crowd
Try this: Southern-Style Hot Water Cornbread – Easy, Crispy, Golden Recipe
Final Thoughts
Frito Pie is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple pantry ingredients, you can whip up a cheesy, crunchy, flavor-packed meal in no time. Whether you layer it in a baking dish or keep it traditional by serving it straight from the Frito bag, this recipe guarantees satisfied smiles all around.
Give this easy Frito Pie a try at your next gathering or cozy night in—you’ll see why it’s a Tex-Mex staple loved by so many.
