Ingredients
For the Base:
1 pound ground beef 🥩
1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅
2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
1 (15-ounce) can chili beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed 🫘
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel) 🍅
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce 🍅
1 tablespoon chili powder 🌶️
1 teaspoon cumin 🌟
1 teaspoon smoked paprika 🌟
1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
1/4 teaspoon black pepper 🧂
For the Casserole:
1 (9.25-ounce) bag Fritos corn chips 🌽
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese 🧀
1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish) 🌿
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional) 🌿
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess grease. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the Fritos evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the beef mixture over the chips, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the beef mixture.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining Fritos, green onions, and cilantro (if using) on top. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Serving Suggestions
Top with sour cream, guacamole, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
Pair with a crisp green salad or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
For a spicier dish, use hot diced tomatoes with green chilies and add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use a mix of your favorite cheeses, like pepper jack or colby jack, for extra flavor.
For an extra crunch, reserve some Fritos to add just before serving.
Nutrition Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
Servings: 6
