Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tex-Mex Frito Fiesta Bake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. It’s a one-dish wonder that brings together the rich flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine in an effortless casserole. The crunchy Frito topping adds a fun twist while the seasoned beef and gooey cheese create a flavorful base. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as a party dish, this bake is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s versatile—customize it with your favorite beans, veggies, or heat level.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 cups Frito corn chips (about half a bag)
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or olive oil.
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Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat.
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Season the beef: Add the taco seasoning to the cooked beef, along with the diced tomatoes with green chilies and black beans. Stir to combine, and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
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Assemble the casserole: Spread a layer of Fritos in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the beef and bean mixture, then spread a layer of sour cream over it. Sprinkle a mixture of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the sour cream layer.
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Repeat the layers: Add another layer of Fritos, followed by the remaining beef and bean mixture. Top with the remaining cheese.
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Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
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Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro, if desired.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 6-8 servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Use black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans instead of ground beef for a vegetarian version. You can also add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Add Spice: For extra heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- Chicken Version: Replace the ground beef with shredded cooked chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
- Add Guacamole: Top the casserole with homemade or store-bought guacamole for an extra creamy element.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I use Fritos® scoops instead of regular Fritos®?
Yes, you can use Frito scoops if you prefer. Just note that they may be larger and might require fewer chips to cover the casserole.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake as directed.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as pepper jack for extra spice, or a blend of Mexican cheeses for added flavor.
4. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use a spicy taco seasoning mix for extra heat.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Fritos® and ensure the taco seasoning is gluten-free, this recipe can be made gluten-free.
6. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months, and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
7. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef for a leaner version of this dish.
8. Can I use a different type of chips?
If you don’t have Fritos® on hand, you can use other tortilla chips or even crushed corn chips as a substitute for the crunchy topping.
9. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a diced jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use a spicy salsa or hot sauce in the beef mixture to add some extra heat.
10. Can I serve this with a side dish?
This dish pairs well with a side of Mexican rice, a simple salad, or even some refried beans for a more complete meal.
Conclusion
Tex-Mex Frito Fiesta Bake is a delicious and fun casserole that brings together all the flavors of your favorite Tex-Mex dishes in one convenient and easy-to-make recipe. With its hearty layers of beef, beans, cheese, and crispy Fritos®, this dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a satisfying family dinner. Whether you serve it as a main dish or as part of a bigger spread, it’s sure to be a hit at your next meal!
