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Smoked Salmon Avocado Toast Recipe for Perfect Brunch

Savory Chili Frito Pie with Gooey Cheddar Cheese


Description

Welcome, food lovers! If you’re craving a warm, savory dish that combines hearty chili with the irresistible crunch of Fritos and the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of gooey cheddar cheese, then you’re in for a treat. This Savory Chili Frito Pie with Gooey Cheddar Cheese is the perfect comfort food for game day, casual family dinners, or whenever you need a satisfying meal to warm your soul.


Ingredients

Scale

 

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
  • 1 packet of taco seasoning
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups Fritos corn chips
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped green onions (optional)
  • Sour cream (optional)

Instructions

 

  1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to prevent the chili from being greasy.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant—about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, diced green chilies, taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  4. Slow Cook: Let the chili cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.
  5. Assemble: Before serving, layer Fritos corn chips on the bottom of each serving bowl. Ladle the hot chili mixture over the chips, allowing the heat from the chili to soften them slightly.
  6. Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. The warmth of the chili will melt the cheese into a gooey, delicious topping. Garnish with chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Notes

 

  • Use Fresh Spices: Fresh chili powder and cumin can elevate the flavor of your chili significantly. If possible, buy whole spices and grind them yourself.
  • Let It Simmer: If you’re cooking on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker, make sure to let the chili simmer for at least an hour to allow the flavors to fully develop.
  • Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to add a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños.