Frito Pie Recipe

Prepare ingredients

Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Drain and rinse beans if using. Measure out spices so they're ready.

Heat a large skillet or medium saucepan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.

Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4–5 minutes.

Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pan. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper as it cooks.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. Stir to coat the meat and cook 1 minute to bloom the spices.

Pour in the tomato sauce and 1 cup beef broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

If using beans, add the drained beans now. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens slightly, 12–15 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning (add up to 1/2 tsp more salt or a pinch of sugar if needed).

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake individual pans or a casserole; otherwise you can assemble in oven-safe single servings or serve stovetop.

For individual Frito Pies: spoon about 1 to 1 1/4 cups of Fritos into each of 4 oven-safe bowls or small casserole dishes to form a crunchy base.

Ladle 1/2 to 3/4 cup of hot chili over the Fritos in each bowl, covering chips but leaving some exposed for texture.

Top each portion with about 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (approx. 2 cups total divided among servings).

Place bowls on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven just until cheese melts, about 6–8 minutes. Alternatively, microwave each bowl for 45–60 seconds until cheese melts.

Remove from oven/microwave. Top with diced white onion (about 2 tablespoons per serving), pickled jalapeños to taste, a dollop of sour cream (about 2 tablespoons per serving), and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and sliced green onions if using.

Finish with hot sauce if desired and serve immediately with extra Fritos on the side for scooping.