So, the frito chili pie recipe. I can’t tell you how many times this dish has swooped in to save dinner at my place. Picture this: everything’s chaos, everyone’s starving, you’ve got exactly 20 minutes and basically zero motivation to wash more dishes. Sound familiar? Friends, this is THAT recipe. Crunchy, cheesy, saucy. Seriously, even picky eaters look up and go, “Yup, more, please.” Let’s get into it.
Reasons you’ll love this recipe
Honestly, if you haven’t made a frito chili pie recipe before, I have two words: life changing. There’s just something about mixing Fritos with chili and cheese that feels like breaking the rules—in a good way. You can throw it together last minute, especially when time is slipping through your fingers faster than a slipping kitten. Cleanup? Hardly any. It’s great for game days, movie nights, or just when you’re fed up with boring dinners. Every single bite smacks of comfort food, the kind that makes you forget you even had a long day. No fancy skills needed either, which is a huge relief. Teens and hungry grown-ups alike will clear their plates before you even sit down.
“This is my family’s hands-down favorite for Friday nights. Even my chili-hating kiddo gobbles it up!” — Jess L.
Frito Pie Ingredients
You just need a handful of basics for this frito chili pie recipe:
- 1 bag of classic Frito corn chips (I buy the regular, not the big scoop ones)
- 2 cans of chili (use your fave, with or without beans)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (I like sharp, but hey, go mild if you want)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- Sour cream for topping (optional but kinda mandatory for me)
- Jalapeños or sliced green onions for a bit of zing (again, totally personal)
Substitutions for This Easy Frito Pie
Not feeling those exact ingredients? Maybe you’re missing something or want to shake things up. Swap canned chili with homemade chili if you’ve got leftover (honestly, that’s next level). No cheddar? Use Monterey Jack or even pepper Jack for some heat. Not a fan of onions? Red ones work nicely or skip them altogether. If you want to make it vegetarian, pick veggie chili. I even saw someone toss in BBQ beef—wasn’t really my thing, but the folks at the party inhaled it. You honestly can’t mess this up, unless you forget the Fritos. That’s the only sin here.
What Are Some Toppings For Frito Pie?
I think this is where it gets really fun. Like, just let everyone pile on whatever makes them happy. Got leftover jalapeños in the fridge? Use them. Tomatoes? Slice ’em thin. Here are a few classic (and random) toppings I love fiddling with:
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a bit of green.
- Extra shredded cheese, because yes please.
- Hot sauce, lots of it, or salsa if you want a tangy punch.
- Crumbled cooked bacon, if you’re feeling fancy/rich.
What to Serve with Frito Pie
Now, truth be told, frito chili pie recipe honestly stands on its own. I mean, you get your crunch, your chili, the cheese pull. But if you’re, say, feeding a crowd or just want more food, here are some pairing ideas: Serve with crisp salad (Caesar or even a bagged one, no judgment—fast is best sometimes) to offset all the heartiness. Cornbread is another winner, especially when you need to stretch the meal a bit. Sometimes I put out a big thing of pickles or sliced cucumbers. Sounds weird? Maybe, but that fresh crunch is magic with chili and cheese. Chips and guac are a happy go-to if you want to lean all the way into party mode.
Common Questions
Q: Can you make frito chili pie recipe ahead of time?
A: You can! Just keep everything separate and assemble before serving so the chips stay crispy.
Q: What kind of chili works best?
A: Use your favorite. Meat, no meat, homemade or store-bought—it all works.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep the chili and Fritos apart if possible, or the chips get soggy. Store in containers, then reheat chili and toss with new chips when you’re ready.
Q: Can I make this in the microwave?
A: Yep. Warm up your chili, layer it with Fritos and cheese, zap until melty, and done.
Q: Is this spicy?
A: Only if you use spicy chili or add extra heat with toppings. Otherwise, not really.
You Gotta Try This
If I could recommend only one super quick, crowd-loving meal, frito chili pie recipe wins every single time. It’s fast, simple, and best of all, you don’t need fancy skills or a mountain of ingredients. Give it a whirl next time you’re stuck. For more creative twists and tips, check out this helpful chili guide for extra ideas. Whatever toppings you choose, I bet you’ll come back for seconds—just like me!
Frito Chili Pie Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onion is soft. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices.
- Add tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes.
- To serve, place Fritos in bowls or on plates. Spoon chili over chips and top with shredded cheddar cheese.