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Comforting Frito Pie Chili Casserole Recipe with Easy Cheesy Layers

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A hearty and satisfying casserole featuring layers of smoky chili, melted cheese, and crispy Fritos, perfect for cozy dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 3 cups Fritos corn chips
  • Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, fresh cilantro leaves, jalapeño slices, extra sour cream or salsa

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion; cook until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 8-10 minutes, breaking up meat as it cooks.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in beef broth or water and stir to combine. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. While chili simmers, mix shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and sour cream in a bowl.
  5. Assemble casserole by spreading a thin layer of chili evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle one-third of the Fritos over chili, then spread one-third of the cheese mixture on top.
  6. Repeat layering two more times: chili, Fritos, cheese mixture, finishing with cheese on top.
  7. Bake casserole for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges are lightly browned.
  8. Let casserole cool for 5-10 minutes to set layers. Garnish with green onions, cilantro, or jalapeños if desired.
  9. Serve warm with extra sour cream or salsa on the side.

Notes

Layering Fritos between chili and cheese keeps them crispy and prevents sogginess. Add extra broth if chili is too thick before layering. Let casserole rest before serving to avoid runny layers. Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Freeze assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Frito Pie, chili casserole, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, potluck recipe, layered casserole

Find it online: https://tastypierecipes.com/comforting-frito-pie-chili-casserole-recipe-with-easy-cheesy-layers/