If you’re craving a comforting, easy-to-make meal, Frito Pie Casserole with Ground Beef and Corn Chips is the perfect recipe. It’s a family favorite that combines seasoned beef, cheese, and crunchy corn chips for a satisfying meal. This casserole is great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering hearty flavors without too much time in the kitchen. Layer the ingredients, bake, and enjoy a meal everyone loves.
| Servings | Total |
| 6 | 35mins |
History of Frito Pie Casserole with Ground Beef and Corn Chips
Frito Pie Casserole is a classic American dish that originated in the Southwestern United States, with roots in both Texas and New Mexico. The concept of Frito Pie, made by topping Fritos with chili and cheese, is said to have first appeared in the 1930s. Over time, it evolved into a baked casserole dish with layers of seasoned beef, cheese, and corn chips. It has become a staple at potlucks, football games, and family dinners, known for its ease and bold flavors.
Why Frito Pie Casserole with Ground Beef and Corn Chips?
Frito Pie Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, requires simple ingredients, and is loved by both kids and adults. The crunch of the corn chips, the flavorful beef, and the gooey melted cheese make this dish irresistible. It’s also versatile—you can customize it with different toppings or spice levels to suit your taste. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and perfect for feeding a crowd.
What is Frito Pie Casserole with Ground Beef and Corn Chips Made of?
Frito Pie Casserole is made with:
- Ground beef
- Fritos corn chips
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Canned chili beans or pinto beans
- Tomato sauce or salsa
- Diced onion
- Taco seasoning or chili powder
- Corn kernels (optional)
- Jalapeños or green chilies (optional)
- Sour cream and green onions for topping
What to Have with Frito Pie Casserole with Ground Beef and Corn Chips
To complete your meal, consider serving Frito Pie Casserole with:
- A simple green salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette
- Cornbread or garlic bread
- A side of guacamole or salsa
- A refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade
Is Frito Pie Casserole with Ground Beef and Corn Chips Healthy?
Frito Pie Casserole is on the indulgent side due to the corn chips and cheese, but you can make it lighter by using lean ground beef, low-fat cheese, and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or corn. It’s a hearty dish, so enjoying it in moderation as part of a balanced diet is the best approach.
Kitchen Equipment
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- A large skillet
- A 9×13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans or pinto beans, drained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce or salsa
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels (optional)
- 3 cups Fritos corn chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños or green chilies (optional)
- Sour cream and green onions for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning or chili powder, diced onion, and beans. Add the tomato sauce (or salsa) and corn if using. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the corn chips in an even layer. Spoon the beef mixture over the chips, then top with the remaining corn chips.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Add sliced jalapeños or green chilies for extra flavor if desired.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with sour cream and chopped green onions. Serve and enjoy!
Tips
- For a spicier version, add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or tomatoes to make the dish heartier.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave.
Conclusion
Frito Pie Casserole with Ground Beef and Corn Chips is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With minimal prep time and ingredients you likely already have on hand, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or casual gathering. Give it a try, and enjoy this comforting, satisfying casserole that will surely become a family favorite.
MORE RECIPES
Frito Pie Casserole with Ground Beef and Corn Chips
Equipment
- A large skillet
- A 9×13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans or pinto beans, drained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce or salsa
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels (optional)
- 3 cups Fritos corn chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños or green chilies (optional)
- Sour cream and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning or chili powder, diced onion, and beans. Add the tomato sauce (or salsa) and corn if using. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the corn chips in an even layer. Spoon the beef mixture over the chips, then top with the remaining corn chips.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Add sliced jalapeños or green chilies for extra flavor if desired.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with sour cream and chopped green onions. Serve and enjoy!