Chili Frito Casserole
Frito Chili Casserole (aka Frito Pie, aka Chili Pie, aka a million other names from Pinterest, Facebook and other social media) was one of my husband’s favorite meals growing up. It’s one of those comfort meals that can be thrown together super fast on busy weeknights and tastes yummy, warm and nourishing. We always seem to have ingredients for this casserole on hand so this one is definitely in permanent rotation around our house. Even the pickiest of eaters love this dish!
Ingredients in Frito Chili Casserole
This casserole seems to have it all for a well rounded meal: a little bit of protein, fiber, calcium and a ton of flavor. Plus it’s made with easy-to-find ingredients. Here’s all you need:
Ground beef – you can also substitute ground turkey or ground chicken. Both options will have less excess fat to drain off and less cholesterol than beef. Season with a little bit of salt and pepper.Onion – regular yellow onion does the trick! If you have green onions, chop them up too and use some as garnish on top.Green chilis – I use a four ounce canBlack olives – chop whole olives, or grab a can of pre-sliced onesChili – any kind of canned chili will work. Chili beans – I usually dump in whatever kind of beans I have on hand. Kidney beans or pinto beans taste delicious!A can of corn – make sure to drain it thoroughly before adding to the mixture.Taco seasoning – use your favorite store brand or make your own! We have a delicious homemade taco seasoning mix recipe made from cumin, chili powder and other spices that’s easy to make and lasts forever!Frito corn chipsShredded Cheese – cheddar cheese or a combination of Monterey jack cheese works great!
Additions/Substitutions
We like this “Southwestern” spin on the traditional chili casserole by adding some salsa, corn, taco seasoning and diced chiles.You can use regular Fritos or Chili Cheese-Flavored Fritos for a different flavor on top.For an extra kick, try shredded pepper jack cheese.If the mixture is too thick, you can thin it out with a little tomato sauce. Don’t have any Fritos on hand? Use crushed tortilla chips! This is the perfect casserole to make with the remnants of the tortilla chips bag (you know, the bits that aren’t big enough to scoop salsa?)Go crazy with toppings! We like to add onions, lettuce diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, sour cream, salsa, a sprinkle of cilantro and guacamole. Any toppings you would typically put on a taco would work great.I love my Frito pie with a dash or two of hot sauce; my dad likes it with ketchup. To each his own!
Easy to Make
This casserole comes together in just a couple of simple steps:
First, combine ground beef and onions and cook over medium-high heat.Stir in chiles, olives, chili, chili beans, corn, salsa, and taco seasoning and simmer until all the sauces are combined.Then, use cooking spray to grease a pan, and layer with crushed Frito corn chips.Next, pour the beef mixture into the pan and top with more chips and cheese.Bake and serve!
Make it GLUTEN FREE!
This is SO EASY to make GF. All you have to do is make sure you use a GF Taco seasoning (homemade is always a sure-bet). Gluten Free taco seasoning is really easy to find at your local grocery store. McCormick brand makes a great one. Also, you need to make sure the chili you are using if gluten free as well. Hormel brand (original style) is gluten free. That is a great bet. Just check those couple things and you are good to go!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container or tightly covered in foil in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is easy with a microwave. Or place in a warm oven for about twenty minutes until heated completely through.
Like this easy dinner recipe? Give these a try!
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