🇺🇸 USA · Food
Hearty Frito Pie
By eatmundo · July 5, 2026
A beloved Tex-Mex comfort food, Frito Pie is a simple yet satisfying dish often served directly in the Frito bag. It features crunchy corn chips topped generously with warm chili, melted cheese, and fresh garnishes like onion and jalapeño for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Open individual bags of Frito corn chips (about 2-3 oz each) or serve a generous handful of chips on a plate.
- 2
Heat 1.5 cups prepared chili (canned or homemade) in a saucepan or microwave until piping hot.
- 3
Pour the hot chili directly over the Frito chips, ensuring they are well covered.
- 4
Sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of Mexican cheeses over the chili, allowing it to melt slightly from the heat.
- 5
Garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped red onion, 1 tablespoon sliced pickled jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of Frito chips are best for a hearty Frito pie?+
For a hearty Frito pie, classic Original Fritos are ideal as their salty crunch complements the chili without overpowering it. Frito Scoops are also a great choice for easy topping scooping.
Can I use canned chili for Hearty Frito Pie, and should it contain beans?+
Yes, canned chili is perfectly fine for convenience, but choose a hearty variety. Whether it has beans or not is a matter of personal preference; both work well, depending on your desired texture.
Which type of cheese is best for achieving a gooey, flavorful top on Hearty Frito Pie?+
Medium or sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded from a block, is excellent for its flavor and superior melt. A Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend can also add a nice creamy texture.
What's the best way to assemble Hearty Frito Pie for optimal texture and how long should it bake?+
Layer chips, chili, and cheese (with corn mixed into the chili or layered separately) in a baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the pie is heated through.
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