If you’re craving a comforting, indulgent dish that’s easy to whip up and perfect for game day, look no further than this Cheesy Fritos Chili Pie. This hearty classic combines crunchy Fritos, savory chili, and gooey melted cheese into a dish that hits all the right notes. Perfect as a main meal or a shareable appetizer, this crowd-pleaser is customizable with your favorite toppings like sour cream, green onions, and jalapeños. It’s a quick fix for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey, if preferred)
- 1 (15-ounce) can of chili beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8-ounce) can of tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (9.25-ounce) bag of Fritos corn chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro, or hot sauce
Instructions:
- Prepare the chili: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the chili beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the pie: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, spread a layer of Fritos chips along the bottom. Pour the prepared chili evenly over the chips. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with your favorite toppings and serve immediately.
Enjoy your Cheesy Fritos Chili Pie straight from the dish or scoop it onto plates for individual servings. It’s deliciously messy, nostalgic, and guaranteed to please!
