This easy and delicious Frito Chili Pie recipe is perfect for a quick dinner that the whole family will love. With just four ingredients, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time. Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of Pillsbury dough (pie crust or crescent dough)
- 1 pound of cooked ground beef
- 2 cans of Wolf Brand Chili (with beans or without, your preference)
- 7 ounces of bacon melt cheese (or cheddar cheese)
- Green onions, for garnish
- Fritos, for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Prepare the Crust:
- Grease a baking dish and spread the Pillsbury dough evenly on the bottom. You can use your hands to press and shape the dough to fit the dish. This will serve as the base for your Frito Chili Pie.
- Add the Ground Beef:
- Take your cooked ground beef and spread it evenly over the dough. Use a spatula to ensure it’s distributed well across the entire surface.
- Add the Chili:
- Open the two cans of Wolf Brand Chili and pour them over the ground beef. Spread the chili evenly to cover the beef completely. This chili will add a rich and flavorful layer to your pie.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the bacon melt cheese or cheddar cheese over the chili layer. Make sure the cheese is spread evenly for a consistent cheesy flavor in every bite. The cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey top layer.
- Garnish with Green Onions:
- Chop some green onions and sprinkle them over the cheese. This will add a fresh and slightly tangy flavor that complements the rich chili and cheese.
- Bake the Pie:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add the Fritos:
- Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, take a bag of Fritos and sprinkle them generously over the top. The Fritos add a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft and savory layers of the pie.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Cut the Frito Chili Pie into servings and plate them. The combination of the crispy crust, savory chili, melted cheese, and crunchy Fritos creates a mouthwatering dish. Serve it while it’s hot and enjoy the hearty flavors.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend would work well in this recipe.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetarian chili for a meat-free version.
- Spice Level: If you like it spicier, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili layer.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for added flavor.
Step-by-Step Detailed Guide:
- Preparing the Crust:
- Open the can of Pillsbury dough and roll it out onto a greased baking dish. Use your hands or a rolling pin to spread it evenly. Press the dough up the sides of the dish slightly to create a crust edge. This helps to contain all the delicious fillings.
- Layering the Ingredients:
- Spread the cooked ground beef over the crust. Ensure the beef is broken into small pieces and evenly distributed.
- Pour the cans of chili over the beef layer. Use a spatula to spread the chili evenly, ensuring it covers all the beef.
- Sprinkle the cheese over the chili layer. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for a uniform cheesy topping.
- Baking:
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure the crust does not overcook. The goal is a golden-brown crust and bubbly cheese.
- Final Touch:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle the Fritos over the top. This step is crucial as it adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Serving:
- Cut into portions and serve immediately. The combination of textures and flavors is best enjoyed hot.
This Frito Chili Pie recipe is not only easy and quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The layers of crispy crust, savory beef, flavorful chili, melted cheese, and crunchy Fritos create a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will please everyone at the table. Enjoy this hearty dish for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
