Frito Pie: A Taste of Texas with My Mom’s Chili

 

Growing up in Texas, one of my favorite comfort foods was Frito pie, especially when topped with my mom’s hearty chili. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly fun to eat right out of the bag! Here’s how to create a simple yet satisfying Frito pie that brings a taste of Texas to your table.

Frito Pie Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2.5 oz bag of Fritos

  • 3/4 cup of my mom's chili (see chili recipe below)

  • 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 cup sour cream

  • 1 green onion, sliced

  • Fresno chile, sliced (optional)

Mom’s Chili Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 medium-large onion, diced

  • 1/2 tablespoon ground pepper

  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal)

  • 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 tablespoon onion powder

  • 1/2 tablespoon Espelette pepper

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder

  • 4 cans Texas ranch-style beans (14.5 oz)

  • 3 cans tomatoes (14.5 oz)

Chili Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.

  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onions and garlic to the pot with the beef, cooking until the onions are softened.

  3. Add Spices: Stir in the ground pepper, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, Espelette pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for a few more minutes to enhance the flavors.

  4. Simmer: Add the tomatoes and Texas ranch-style beans to the pot. Bring to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring every 5-10 minutes.

Assemble

  1. Prepare the Fritos: With scissors, cut the Fritos bag open along the back crease. Fold the sides of the bag down without tearing it.

  2. Assemble the Dish: Ladle 3/4 cup of hot chili over the Fritos. Top with 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, and Fresno chile slices if desired.

  3. Serve: Enjoy this delicious Frito pie straight out of the bag for a fun and casual dining experience.

Enjoy!

This Frito pie, with my mom's chili as the star, is a delightful way to enjoy a taste of my Texas roots. It’s perfect for gatherings, game days, or just a cozy night in. I hope you love it as much as I do!

 
RecipesTimothy hollingsworth