Chili Pie Casserole
A crunchy and cheesy chili pie casserole layered with corn chips, seasoned chili, onions, and cheese, offering bold flavors perfect for a casual family meal or game day snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 2 cups of corn chips in a baking dish.
- Arrange chopped onion and 1/2 cup grated cheese on the corn chips.
- Pour chili over the onion and cheese.
- Top with the remaining corn chips and cheese.
- Bake at 350° until hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use a meatless chili. You can also substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative if you're looking for a vegan version. To enhance flavor, try adding some cumin or smoked paprika to the chili before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chili Pie Casserole with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Layered Broccoli Souffl for a comforting dinner. You can also top individual servings with sour cream, sliced avocado, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Cool the casserole completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Pie Casserole contains roughly 1198 calories, with 18g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1461mg per serving (64% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats thoroughly.
What type of chili should I use?
You can use any canned chili you like, from classic beef chili to vegetarian recipes. A chili with beans will add texture and flavor, while a spicier version can elevate the dish. Just ensure it's a flavor you enjoy since it greatly influences the overall taste.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Chili Pie Casserole. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through. This makes for a quick meal option on busy days!
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).