Mexican Frito Pie
A hearty, cheesy layered casserole with seasoned ground beef, chili, and crunchy Fritos, perfect for casual gatherings and satisfying comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, onion, and green pepper in oil.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Add Hormel chili and tomato sauce to the beef mixture.
- Let simmer for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Spoon a layer of sauce into the bottom of a casserole dish, just enough to cover the bottom.
- Crush Fritos and layer them on top of the sauce.
- Add a thicker layer of sauce, then spread sour cream, and sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of Fritos on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a combination of ground beef and ground turkey. You can also substitute the Hormel chili with homemade chili for a fresher taste. If you like it spicy, add jalapeños to the beef mixture. Feel free to use other types of cheese like Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile, but sharp Cheddar pairs beautifully with this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Frito Pie with a side of fresh guacamole or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish. It also pairs well with Hot Monterey Rice Salad for a complete meal. Consider garnishing with chopped cilantro or sliced green onions for freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave portions for quicker reheating, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the Fritos.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Frito Pie contains roughly 1392 calories, with 35g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (70% of the Daily Value), calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 932mg per serving (41% 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 layers in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, assemble the layers in your casserole dish and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you're looking for a healthier option, plain Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream. It provides a similar creaminess with added protein and tang. You could also use a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you're avoiding dairy.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat can be used as alternatives to ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times as needed, especially for lean meats that may cook faster.
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).