Chili Bean Pie
Chili Bean Pie is a hearty, layered casserole combining spicy chili, crunchy corn chips, and melted cheese. Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers bold flavors and satisfying textures that appeal to those who enjoy comfort food with a kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium-sized casserole dish, spread half a can of chili with beans.
- Chop the onions and layer them over the chili.
- Add a layer of crushed corn chips on top of the onions.
- Sprinkle half of the grated cheese over the corn chips.
- Repeat the layers: chili, onions, corn chips, cheese, until all ingredients are used.
- Bake at 350°F until the onions are done and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili. If you don't have corn chips, tortilla chips or even crushed crackers can work well as a substitute. You can also use a mix of cheeses, such as pepper jack and cheddar, to enhance the flavor profile. This recipe is quite similar to a Seven Layer Mexican Dip in terms of layering ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chili Bean Pie hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for added flavor. Pair it with a side of Mexican Tossed Salad for a refreshing contrast. It also goes well with sour cream or guacamole on the side, making it a perfect dish for game day or a casual gathering with friends.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps maintain the crispiness of the corn chips.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Bean Pie contains roughly 343 calories, with 7g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 550mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! The chili with beans is typically vegetarian, but always check the label to ensure there are no meat products. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn to enhance the dish while keeping it vegetarian.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the layers ahead of time and assemble them in the casserole dish. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time if it's going into the oven cold.
What can I serve with Chili Bean Pie?
Chili Bean Pie pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican recipes, such as a refreshing salsa or a simple green salad. You might also consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a side of cornbread for a hearty meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).