Frito Skillet Chili Pie
An Irresistible Frito Skillet Chili Pie Experience
Who doesn’t love a bubbling skillet of spicy chili topped with gooey cheddar cheese? This Frito Skillet Chili Pie takes it up a notch with a salty secret ingredient—Fritos corn chips! Tucked beneath this cheesy, chili goodness is a layer of crunchy corn chips that adds a whole new level of satisfaction to the dish. While we believe it’s worth the effort to simmer your own full-flavor chili, you can also use your favorite store-bought version if you’re pressed for time. Either way, our entire family loves this meal, and we bet yours will too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will please everyone at the table. The crunchy corn chips provide a satisfying contrast to the rich, hearty chili, while the melted cheddar cheese ties everything together. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Deep cast iron skillet
- Oven
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 package chili seasoning
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces)
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (10 ounces)
- 1 can red kidney beans (14 ounces), drained and rinsed
- 3 cups corn chips
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef until it’s cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Mix in the drained kidney beans. Cover and let simmer for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the chili thickens.
- Spread the corn chips evenly on the bottom of a deep cast iron skillet.
- Ladle the thickened chili over the corn chips and sprinkle with half of the chopped green onions.
- Top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the chili is bubbling.
- Garnish with the remaining chopped green onions.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for a longer period to allow the liquid to reduce.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting results.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; you can add more chili seasoning or a dash of hot sauce if you like it spicier.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of beans or add extra veggies, such as bell peppers or corn, for more texture and flavor. You might also try topping the pie with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, assemble and bake as directed.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Colby for a different flavor profile.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or extra beans for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Conclusion
This Frito Skillet Chili Pie is a delicious, comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. We invite you to give it a try and share your experience with us. Enjoy the mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures, and don’t forget to leave a comment with your thoughts or any variations you tried!
