Frito Chili Pie: Tasty Comfort Food

Frito Chili Pie is a simple and delicious dish that people love all over the United States. It combines crunchy Fritos corn chips, warm chili, and melted cheese to make the perfect meal. Whether you eat it for a quick dinner, bring it to a potluck, or snack on it at a football game, this dish is easy to make and always a hit. In this post, we’ll learn about where it came from, how to make it, and some fun ways to mix it up!

Where Did Frito Chili Pie Come From?

The History

Frito Chili Pie is connected to the history of Fritos corn chips. In 1932, a man named Charles Elmer Doolin from San Antonio, Texas bought a recipe for corn chips from a local vendor. He worked hard to make the chips super crunchy and salty, and that’s how the Fritos brand began. Over time, people started adding Fritos to other foods, and one of the most popular recipes was Frito Chili Pie.

The dish became popular in the 1940s and 1950s. Since chili was already a favorite food in Texas, it made sense to pour it over Fritos and add cheese on top. It was tasty, simple, and easy to share.

Who Invented It?

Two places say they invented Frito Chili Pie:

1. Texas: Some Texans believe it was created by Daisy Dean Doolin, the mother of Charles Doolin. She loved experimenting with Fritos and made the dish famous in her kitchen.
2. New Mexico: Another story says Teresa Hernández, a cook in Santa Fe, started serving chili right in a Fritos bag at a Woolworth’s lunch counter in the 1960s. Today, people call this version a “walking taco.”

No matter where it came from, Frito Chili Pie is now a favorite comfort food in the Southwest and beyond.

What’s in Frito Chili Pie?

The Main Ingredients

Frito Chili Pie is made with just a few basic ingredients:

• Fritos corn chips: These crispy chips make the base of the dish.
• Chili: Warm, beefy chili gives the dish its hearty flavor.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese adds gooey, melty goodness.

Toppings You Can Add

While the classic recipe is simple, you can make your Frito Chili Pie even better with these toppings:

• Diced onions: Add a little crunch and a strong flavor.
• Sour cream: Makes the dish creamy and cools down the heat.
• Jalapeños: Perfect if you like a spicy kick.
• Avocado slices: Adds creaminess and a fresh taste.
• Cilantro: A sprinkle of green herbs to brighten the dish.

How to Make Frito Chili Pie at Home

Ingredients You Need

Here’s a simple shopping list for Frito Chili Pie:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey if you want a lighter version)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can of kidney beans or pinto beans (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bag Fritos corn chips
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Toppings: sour cream, jalapeños, diced onions, cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chili:
   • In a large pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s brown. Drain any extra grease.
   • Add the diced onions and garlic, and cook until they’re soft.
   • Mix in the tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and beans (if you’re using them). Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes so the flavors come together. Add salt and pepper to taste.
2. Build the Pie:
   • In a baking dish, pour a layer of Fritos corn chips at the bottom.
   • Spoon the warm chili over the Fritos.
   • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese all over the top.
3. Bake or Serve:
   • Baked version: Heat the oven to 375°F and bake the dish for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese melts.
   • Quick version: Skip the baking and serve the chili hot over the chips. The chili will melt the cheese on its own!
4. Add Toppings:
   • Finish your Frito Chili Pie with any toppings you like, such as sour cream, onions, or jalapeños.

Different Ways to Make Frito Chili Pie

Regional Styles

Depending on where you live, Frito Chili Pie may look a little different:

• Walking Tacos (Midwest): This version serves chili and toppings right in a small Fritos bag. You can eat it with a fork while walking around.
• Pepper Bellies (California): This style adds bell peppers and spicy chili for a bigger kick.

Healthy Swaps

If you want to make a healthier version of Frito Chili Pie, try these ideas:

• Use turkey or plant-based meat instead of ground beef.
• Choose baked corn chips instead of regular Fritos.
• Add fresh toppings like lettuce, avocado, or tomatoes for extra veggies.

Is Frito Chili Pie Healthy?

Calorie Breakdown

A typical serving has about 400-600 calories, depending on how much you eat and what toppings you add.

Ingredient	Calories
Fritos (1 cup)	160
Chili (1 cup)	250-300
Cheese (1/2 cup)	200

Tips for a Healthier Dish

• Use lean ground meat to cut down on fat.
• Swap in baked corn chips.
• Add lots of veggies like diced tomatoes, avocado, or lettuce to balance the dish.

Frito Chili Pie in Pop Culture

On TV and at Events

Frito Chili Pie has become famous in pop culture. It has been featured on TV shows like Breaking Bad and The Pioneer Woman. You’ll also find it at fairs, sports games, and family cookouts.

A Party Favorite

Frito Chili Pie is perfect for events like football games, potlucks, and carnivals. It’s easy to make, and everyone loves it.

Why Frito Chili Pie Is Here to Stay

Frito Chili Pie is a classic because it’s easy to make, tasty, and fun to eat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try a new twist, will always be a crowd-pleaser.

Now that you know the history, recipe, and fun variations, it’s time to give Frito Chili Pie a try. Make it tonight and share this tasty classic with your family!

FAQ

What is Frito pie made of?

Frito pie is made of Fritos corn chips, warm chili, and melted cheddar cheese. You can add toppings like onions, sour cream, and jalapeños.

Is it a Texas thing?

Yes! is very popular in Texas, where it’s part of the state’s food traditions.

Is Frito chili pie a Southern thing?

Yes, is popular in the South and Southwest. It’s especially loved in places like Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.

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