Description
This Frito Pie Casserole combines the bold flavors of seasoned ground beef, enchilada sauce, black beans, and crunchy Fritos chips, layered with melted cheddar jack cheese for a comforting and crowd-pleasing baked dish. It’s an easy-to-make casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 1 (1 oz) package taco seasoning
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 (10 ounce) can red enchilada sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (9.25 ounce) bag Fritos
- 2 cups cheddar jack cheese, shredded
For Serving
- Sour cream, for serving
- Green onions, sliced, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil to prevent sticking and set it aside for assembly.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking while breaking up the meat until the beef is fully cooked and the onions are softened. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Seasoning and Simmer: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and water into the skillet. Let the mixture simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated and the flavors are well combined.
- Incorporate Sauce and Beans: Mix in the red enchilada sauce and drained black beans. Remove the skillet from heat once combined.
- Layer Fritos and Cheese: Spread about two-thirds of the Fritos evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese over the Fritos layer.
- Add Taco Meat Layer: Carefully spread the seasoned meat mixture over the cheese and Fritos layer, using a spatula to ensure all chips are covered.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar jack cheese over the meat layer.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted and the casserole is bubbly.
- Finish with Fritos Topping: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining Fritos on top for extra crunch.
- Serve with Garnishes: Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions and dollops of sour cream for added flavor and creaminess.
Notes
- For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicy enchilada sauce.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the ground beef and add extra beans or vegetables like corn and bell peppers.
- Serve immediately after adding the final Fritos to maintain their crunch.
- The casserole can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving for convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
