Frito Pie Recipe | Fritos Chili Pie

PUBLISHED August 8, 2025· MODIFIED August 8, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1058 words. · About 6 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

If you’re a fan of hearty comfort food layered with crunchy corn chips, savory chili, and gooey cheese, you’re in for a treat! Learn how to make the easiest Frito Pie. You’ll achieve that perfect balance between crispy Fritos, warm chili, and melted cheese without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Comforting Classic

Fast. Ready in under 30 minutes with the help of your favorite chili.
Easy. Layer chips, chili, cheese, and bake. It’s so straightforward!
Delicious. Packed with flavor that is both crunchy and cheesy, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Customizable. Swap toppings, add veggies, or spice things up with jalapeños.

With these simple steps, you’ve created a restaurant-worthy dish that will keep friends and family coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting game day or need a quick weeknight dinner, Frito Pie is guaranteed to be a hit.

What Does Frito Pie Taste Like?

Frito Pie is absolutely delicious and insanely popular among fans of Tex-Mex and casual comfort food. This dish offers a delectable combination of crunchy corn chips, savory chili, and gooey cheese that appeals to a wide range of palates.

Its rich, indulgent taste makes it perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a fun family meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fritos Corn Chips (or any corn tortilla chip)– The crunchy base that lends the dish its signature texture. They create a sturdy foundation for the chili and cheese layers. Add more at the end for an irresistible crunch.
Chili (homemade or store-bought)– A hearty layer that adds meaty, spicy flavor. The boldness of chili works perfectly with the salty crunch of Fritos.
Shredded Cheese– Melts into a gooey topping that ties it all together, providing creaminess and tang.
Onion or Scallions– Adds a sharp, fresh bite. Sprinkling diced onion or scallions over the top gives a crisp contrast to the soft cheese.
Diced Tomatoes or Salsa– Brightens the dish with a juicy, tangy contrast. A spoonful of tomatoes or salsa keeps the flavors lively and fresh.
Sour Cream– Offers a cool, creamy element to balance the rich chili. Dollop it on top for a soothing contrast against the spices.
Jalapeños– For an extra kick of heat, if you like it spicy! Sliced jalapeños elevate the Tex-Mex flair.

How To Make Frito Pie

Preheat & Prep. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a baking dish (8×8 or 9×9 inches works best).
Layer the Ingredients. Spread a layer of Fritos on the bottom of the dish. Spoon your warm chili over the chips, covering them evenly. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top.
Bake to Perfection. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Garnish & Serve. Top with more fritos, diced onions, tomatoes, sour cream, or jalapeños if desired. Serve hot while the cheese is still gooey and the chips remain crunchy.

Tips And Tricks

Making Frito Pie is straightforward, but these tips can help you achieve the best possible results:

Use Sturdy Chips. Regular Fritos work best; scoops or flavored varieties can alter taste.
Warm Your Chili. Hot chili ensures the cheese melts faster and the chips stay crunchy.
Watch the Oven Time. Over-baking can soften the chips too much, so remove when cheese is just melted.
Customize the Heat. Mix jalapeños into the chili or add chili powder for extra spice.

Variations

If you’re a fan of Frito Pie and want to add your own flair, here are a few delicious ideas:

Taco-Inspired– Season the chili with taco seasoning and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of salsa.
BBQ Twist– Replace chili with pulled pork and BBQ sauce, then top with cheese for a smoky variant.
Veggie Delight– Use vegetarian chili or refried beans, and pile on sauteed peppers and onions.
Tex-Mex Layer– Add black beans, corn, and cotija cheese for extra flavor and texture.

What To Eat With Frito Pie

Frito Pie is a standout, hearty dish on its own, but here are some pairing ideas:

Side Salad– A crisp green salad with a light dressing offsets the richness of the pie.
Guacamole & Chips– A fresh dip option that complements Tex-Mex flavors.
Fruit Salad– Adds a refreshing, sweet contrast to the savory meal.
Mexican Rice– Boosts the meal’s filling power with additional grains.

How Long Does It Last?

Frito Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for 2–3 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or microwave, but note that the chips will likely soften upon storage.

For the best crunch, assemble just enough to enjoy in one sitting.

Can You Freeze It?

Freezing Frito Pie isn’t recommended because corn chips lose their texture once thawed. If you want to freeze chili, do so separately and add fresh chips and cheese when ready to bake.

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