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Ultimate Easy Weeknight Frito Pie Casserole with Customizable Toppings

A close-up shot of a hearty serving of Frito Pie Casserole featuring layers of pasta, seasoned ground meat, and melted cheddar cheese.

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Make this ultimate comfort food fast. This simple Frito Pie Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, chili, and melted cheese layered over crunchy corn chips. It is a satisfying, family-friendly dinner ready quickly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning mix
  • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 bag (9.25 ounces) Fritos corn chips, divided
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional Toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, salsa, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
  3. Stir the taco seasoning mix, rinsed beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and water into the skillet with the beef mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Spread half of the Fritos corn chips in an even layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  5. Spoon the beef and chili mixture evenly over the layer of Fritos chips.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chili layer.
  7. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining half of the Fritos corn chips over the melted cheese.
  9. Serve immediately with your choice of toppings like sour cream, green onions, salsa, or jalapeños.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute the water with 1 cup of beef broth when cooking the chili mixture.
  • If you prefer a less spicy dish for family meals, use mild diced tomatoes with green chilies or plain diced tomatoes.
  • You can assemble this casserole up to the cheese layer ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.

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