How to Make Frito Pie Casserole – Step-by-Step for Beginners
This Frito Pie Casserole recipe is a simple yet crowd-pleasing dish that combines the smoky, cheesy flavors of the Southwest in one satisfying bake. Follow these easy, beginner-friendly steps to create a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings.
Table of Contents
- What is Frito Pie Casserole?
- Ingredients
- Equipment You’ll Need
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Expert Tips for Beginners
- FAQ
- External Links for Inspiration
What is Frito Pie Casserole?
Frito Pie Casserole is a classic Southwestern dish made with seasoned beef, beans, tomatoes, and a topping of crunchy Fritos and melted cheese. It’s a layered casserole that delivers bold flavors and textures in every bite.
Ingredients for Frito Pie Casserole
Serves: 8
- 1 pound ground chuck 🥩
- 1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 1 green bell pepper, diced 🫑
- 1 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained 🍅
- 1 (15 oz) can sweet whole kernel corn, drained 🌽
- 1 (1 oz) packet 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 🌱
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, and salsa
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before starting, gather and measure all your ingredients. Chop the onion and bell pepper into small, even pieces for easy cooking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground chuck. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and nearly cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
Tip: Use a spoon to drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
Step 4: Mix in the Seasonings and Liquids
Stir in the taco seasoning, chicken stock, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn, chipotle chile, and adobo sauce. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce it to medium. Simmer for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded Cheddar cheese until it melts and combines with the beef mixture.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining Cheddar cheese, followed by an even layer of corn chips.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 18-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Rest and Garnish
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with sliced scallions and serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
How to Make Frito Pie Casserole – Step-by-Step for Beginners
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chuck
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 green bell pepper chopped
- 1 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 15 oz can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 15 oz can sweet whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 1 oz envelope taco seasoning mix
- 1 chipotle chile pepper in adobo sauce finely chopped, plus 1 tbsp adobo sauce
- 8 oz sharp Cheddar cheese shredded, divided
- 2½ cups corn chips such as Fritos
- Sliced scallions for garnish
- Sour cream guacamole, and salsa for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground chuck. Add onion and green bell pepper; cook until softened.
- Stir in chicken stock, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn, taco seasoning, chipotle chile, and adobo sauce. Simmer for 7-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded Cheddar.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining Cheddar and corn chips.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with scallions and serve with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
Notes
Expert Tips for Beginners
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped onions and peppers add a lot of flavor to this dish.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before assembling the casserole, taste the beef mixture and adjust salt or spice levels as needed.
- Layer Evenly: Ensure the beef mixture, cheese, and Fritos are spread evenly for consistent flavor.
- Prevent Soggy Chips: Add the chips just before baking to keep them crunchy.
FAQ
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the beef mixture ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, assemble the casserole and bake as directed.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great leaner options for this recipe.
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External Links for More Inspiration
