Description
A hearty, comforting American Southwest classic, Frito Chili Pie layers spicy chili over a crunchy bed of Fritos corn chips, topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh, zesty toppings. This easy skillet-cooked chili is simmered to perfection and makes a perfect casual meal for gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound (454 g) 85/15 ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 14 ounce (397 g) can kidney beans, undrained
- 5.5 ounce (156 g) can tomato paste
- 10 ounce (284 g) can diced tomatoes and green chiles
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
Serving Ingredients
- 9.25 ounce (262 g) bag of Fritos corn chips
- 1 cup (113 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- Diced onions (optional)
- Diced jalapeno peppers (optional)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Sliced green onions (optional)
- Diced tomatoes (optional)
- Chopped bell peppers (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Aromatics: In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until the meat is fully browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Add Remaining Chili Ingredients: Stir in the kidney beans with their liquid, tomato paste, diced tomatoes and green chiles, chili powder, salt, sugar, and ground cumin until everything is combined evenly.
- Simmer the Chili: Lower the heat to medium-low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step thickens the chili and deepens the flavors.
- Prepare the Base: Spread the Fritos corn chips evenly on a large serving dish or individual plates to create a crunchy base layer.
- Assemble and Serve: Ladle the hot chili over the Fritos, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top so it melts slightly from the heat. Add any optional toppings like diced onions, jalapenos, sour cream, green onions, diced tomatoes, or bell peppers as desired. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Drain excess fat from the cooked beef to prevent greasy chili.
- Simmering uncovered allows the chili to thicken without becoming watery.
- Customizable toppings add freshness and extra flavor contrast.
- Serve immediately to keep Fritos crunchy.
- Make sure to stir chili occasionally to prevent sticking during simmering.
