Frito Pie Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, combining pantry staples with fresh ingredients. The chipotle pepper and adobo sauce give it a smoky kick, while the corn chips add the perfect crunchy contrast to the cheesy, saucy filling. It’s customizable, crowd-pleasing, and can be served straight from the baking dish for minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground chuck
1 cup chopped yellow onion
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1¼ cups low-sodium chicken stock
1 (15 ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (15 ounce) can sweet whole kernel corn, drained
1 (1 ounce) envelope taco seasoning mix
1 chipotle chile pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped, plus 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
8 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
2½ cups corn chips (such as Fritos)
sliced scallions, for garnish
sour cream, guacamole, and salsa, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground chuck until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in chicken stock, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn, taco seasoning, chipotle pepper, and adobo sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
5. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted.
6. Spread half the corn chips evenly over the bottom of a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Pour the beef mixture over the chips and spread evenly. Top with remaining corn chips and the rest of the shredded cheese.
8. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with sliced scallions and serve hot with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6–8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Swap ground chuck for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Use black beans instead of kidney beans for a different flavor profile.
• Add sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Try pepper jack cheese for a spicier, creamier topping.
• Layer with refried beans for a heartier casserole.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or warm individual portions in the microwave. To keep chips crisp, add fresh corn chips on top before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it without the top layer of chips and cheese, refrigerate, then add them right before baking.

Can I freeze Frito Pie Casserole?

It freezes well, but the chips may soften. For best results, freeze the beef mixture separately and add chips before baking.

Can I use vegetarian ingredients?

Yes replace meat with plant-based ground “meat” and use vegetable broth.

How do I make it less spicy?

Omit the chipotle pepper and reduce or skip the adobo sauce.

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?

Absolutely use about 1½ cups cooked fresh corn kernels.

What type of corn chips work best?

Original Fritos hold up best in baking, but any sturdy corn chip works.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes cook the beef and vegetables first, then combine in a slow cooker, top with cheese and chips before serving.

How do I keep the chips crispy?

Add them as the final layer right before baking or reheating.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach work well without overpowering the flavor.

What sides go with Frito Pie Casserole?

A simple green salad, Mexican rice, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

Conclusion

Frito Pie Casserole is a warm, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish that’s as easy to make as it is to love. With its layers of seasoned meat, hearty beans, sweet corn, and crunchy chips, it’s a guaranteed hit for any casual gathering or family meal. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a customizable dinner that satisfies every craving.

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