Chili Cheese Frito Pie Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 (10-ounce) bag Fritos corn chips, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned; drain fat.
3. 3 Stir in kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, corn, chili powder, and cumin. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. 4 Spread half of the beef mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. 5 Dot with softened cream cheese and sprinkle with 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
6. 6 Top with remaining beef mixture and crushed Fritos.
7. 7 Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
8. 8 Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted.
9. 9 Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9x13 inch baking dish

Variations

• Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Include a layer of refried beans for extra creaminess.

Substitutions

• Substitute Fritos with crushed tortilla chips if needed.
• Use Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a Mexican beer or a tangy margarita.
• Serve with a side of guacamole or salsa.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with an equal amount of cooked black beans.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to allow it to melt properly in the oven.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in a 350°F oven.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of sour cream and extra green onions.
• Pairs well with a crisp salad or warm cornbread.

FAQ