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A hearty, savory casserole with a seasoned ground beef and bean filling, topped with crunchy Fritos corn chips and melted cheddar cheese. This one-dish wonder is pure comfort food, perfect for a weeknight family dinner.
For 6 servings
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Carefully drain off any excess grease.
Return the skillet to the heat. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices.
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, and the rinsed pinto beans. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Gently stir in about half of the Fritos (approx. 4-5 cups) and 1 cup of the shredded cheese into the beef mixture.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer. Top with the remaining Fritos, followed by the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
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A hearty, savory casserole with a seasoned ground beef and bean filling, topped with crunchy Fritos corn chips and melted cheddar cheese. This one-dish wonder is pure comfort food, perfect for a weeknight family dinner.
This southwest recipe takes 60 minutes to prepare and yields 6 servings. At 1018.75 calories per serving with 58.85g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for dinner or lunch.
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is fully melted and golden.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set, making it easier to scoop. Garnish with optional toppings like sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or chopped cilantro.
Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or spicy chorizo for a different flavor profile.
Omit the ground beef and add an extra can of beans (black or kidney beans work well) or use 1.5 lbs of plant-based ground 'meat'. You could also add corn or diced bell peppers for more texture.
Instead of pinto beans, try black beans, kidney beans, or even chili beans in sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Use a can of diced tomatoes with green chiles (like Ro-Tel) instead of regular diced tomatoes and use a spicy enchilada sauce for more heat.
With a substantial amount of ground beef and pinto beans, this dish is rich in protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
The pinto beans and onions contribute dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and supports overall gut health.
The cooked diced tomatoes and enchilada sauce are excellent sources of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases.
A typical serving of this Frito Pie Casserole contains approximately 650-750 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used, such as the fat content of the beef and the brand of chips and cheese.
Frito Pie Casserole is a rich and savory comfort food that is high in calories, sodium, and saturated fat. While not considered a 'health food,' it provides a good amount of protein from the beef and beans and fiber from the beans. It's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Yes, this is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare the beef and bean filling and assemble the casserole in the baking dish up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the top layer of Fritos and cheese and bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The Fritos will soften over time. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. You can add a fresh sprinkle of Fritos on top after reheating to restore some crunch.
This is a hearty, all-in-one meal, so simple sides are best. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, a side of cornbread, or steamed green beans can provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the casserole.