Frito Cheesy Chili Casserole 🧀




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Frito Cheesy Chili Casserole 🧀

Introduction

Are you looking for a warm and hearty meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than Frito Cheesy Chili Casserole! This dish combines ground beef, savory spices, and crunchy Fritos all topped with gooey cheddar cheese. It’s a comforting casserole that is not only easy to prepare but also a hit at gatherings. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

Why Make This Recipe

Frito Cheesy Chili Casserole is perfect for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. Second, the combination of flavors is simply irresistible. The crunch of Fritos pairs beautifully with the rich chili and melted cheese. Finally, this dish is versatile; you can customize it with your favorite toppings and ingredients, making it unique to your taste.

How to Make Frito Cheesy Chili Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 1 & 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 & 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 & 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¾ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon chipotle powder
  • 6 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 15 ounces tomato sauce
  • ½ cup beef stock
  • 9 cups lightly crushed Fritos
  • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream, for serving
  • Sliced scallions, for serving

Directions:

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onions over medium-high heat until fully cooked and onions are translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Drain any excess fat.

  2. Season the Beef: Stir in chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cumin, chipotle powder, and tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring until well combined.

  3. Add Sauce: Pour in tomato sauce and beef stock, stirring until fully combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  5. Layer the Casserole: Spread half of the lightly crushed Fritos evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon half of the chili mixture over the Fritos, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining Fritos, chili, and cheese.

  6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with nonstick foil or foil sprayed with cooking spray, placing it spray side down. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.

  7. Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to bubble and brown slightly.

  8. Serve: Serve the Frito Cheesy Chili Casserole immediately, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and sliced scallions.

How to Serve Frito Cheesy Chili Casserole

Serve this cheesy casserole hot from the oven! It’s great on its own or you can add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of sliced scallions for a fresh touch. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Frito Cheesy Chili Casserole

If you have leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Tips to Make Frito Cheesy Chili Casserole

  • Ensure that you drain any excess fat from the ground beef to keep the dish from being greasy.
  • Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste; add extra chili powder for a spicier kick.
  • For a cheesier casserole, you can add more cheese on top before the final baking step.

Variation

You can try using ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version. Additionally, feel free to mix in some black beans or corn for more texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili mixture and layer it with Fritos and cheese, then cover and refrigerate it. Bake it just before you plan to serve.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, you can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorites.

Is this dish gluten-free?
The recipe contains Fritos, which are generally considered gluten-free. However, always check the packaging to ensure it’s safe for your dietary needs.

Enjoy making and sharing Frito Cheesy Chili Casserole — it’s sure to be a favorite!

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