Slow Cooker Chili Frito Pie

Introduction

Welcome to the world of comfort food with a twist! Slow Cooker Chili Frito Pie is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of hearty chili with the crunch of Frito chips. This recipe is perfect for those cozy nights when you want something warm and comforting. Whether you’re hosting a game night, having friends over for a casual gathering, or simply craving a hearty meal, Slow Cooker Chili Frito Pie is sure to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love Slow Cooker Chili Frito Pie. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can have a flavorful and filling meal ready to enjoy. The slow cooker does most of the work for you, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich and savory chili. Plus, this recipe is customizable to suit your taste preferences. You can add extra spice, swap out ingredients, or even make it vegetarian-friendly. It’s versatile and adaptable, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

For this Slow Cooker Chili Frito Pie recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bag (9.25 ounces) Frito corn chips
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, chopped green onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Slow Cooker Chili Frito Pie:

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Transfer the cooked beef, onion, and garlic to a slow cooker.
Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
When ready to serve, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread a layer of Frito corn chips on the bottom of a baking dish.
Top the corn chips with a generous amount of the chili mixture.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chili layer.
Repeat the layers until all the chili and corn chips are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips for Success

To ensure the best results for your Slow Cooker Chili Frito Pie, consider these expert tips:

For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the chili mixture.
If you prefer a thicker chili, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
Feel free to adjust the spice level to your taste. Add more chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick, or reduce the amount for a milder flavor.
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or additional beans.

Variations and Substitutions

Slow Cooker Chili Frito Pie is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

Instead of ground beef, use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
If you’re a fan of spicy food, add diced jalapenos or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to amp up the heat.
For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and double up on the beans. You can use black beans, pinto beans, or a combination of both.
Experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses can add a delicious twist to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Slow Cooker Chili Frito Pie is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with some tasty accompaniments to enhance the dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions:

Garnish the pie with dollops of sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, and chopped green onions for added freshness and flavor.
Pair it with a side of homemade guacamole and tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex feast.
Serve it with a crisp green salad or coleslaw to balance the richness of the chili.
Offer a variety of hot sauces or hot pepper flakes on the side for those who like it extra spicy.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Slow Cooker Chili Frito Pie can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I use a different type of chip instead of Fritos?

A: While Fritos add a unique crunch and flavor to this dish, you can certainly experiment with other types of corn chips or even cornbread for a different texture.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chili Frito Pie is a crowd-pleasing recipe that brings together the comforting flavors of chili and the irresistible crunch of Frito chips. With its easy preparation and customizable nature, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply looking for a satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to indulge in a bowl of deliciousness!

We hope you enjoy making and devouring this Slow Cooker Chili Frito Pie as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative variations you come up with. Happy cooking!