Savor the Lone Star: Oven-Baked Frito Pie, a Texas Classic

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In the heart of Texas, where high school football reigns supreme, there's a dish that has become synonymous with Friday night lights: Frito Pie. This easy, comforting, and flavorful meal is a must-have in the fall when the temperatures cool, and game days heat up. Whether you're tailgating or hosting a watch party, the oven-baked version of this classic dish brings convenience without sacrificing flavor. Texas Frito Pie is rich, cheesy, and packs a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Frito Pie holds a special place in Texas' culinary tradition. It’s simple to prepare but bursts with bold flavors. A layer of crunchy Fritos serves as the base, topped with a hearty mix of seasoned beef, beans, and tomatoes, all smothered in melted cheese. The final touch of sour cream and jalapeños adds a fresh contrast to the warm, savory pie.

For those new to the dish, oven-baking takes Frito Pie to the next level, allowing the flavors to meld and the Fritos to maintain their satisfying crunch. While there are variations, this classic Texas recipe avoids beans in favor of a meat-forward chili, staying true to the state's "no beans in chili" mantra​(Jess Pryles)​(Fox Valley Foodie).

Texas Oven-Baked Frito Pie Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. lean ground beef
• 1 can (16 oz) chili beans
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 envelope low sodium taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (2% fat kind)
• 3 1/2 cups corn chips (Fritos)
• 1 1/4 cups fat-free sour cream

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
3. Stir in chili beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In an 8x8 baking dish, sprinkle 1 cup of corn chips as the base layer.
5. Pour the meat mixture over the chips and sprinkle 1/4 cup cheese on top. Bake for 20 minutes.
6. Spread sour cream over the baked chili mixture, top with the remaining corn chips and cheese, and bake for another 5 minutes until the cheese melts.
7. Serve hot, garnished with jalapeños or green onions for added kick.

The Final Touch: This oven-baked Frito Pie is the perfect blend of convenience and tradition. Each bite brings the iconic flavors of Texas, from the seasoned beef to the crunchy Fritos. Whether you serve it at a football tailgate or a casual family dinner, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its simplicity and bold taste, Frito Pie is a dish that encapsulates Texas' down-home charm and love for comfort food​(Kristy Denney)​(Bless this Mess).

Sources:

1. (Jess Pryles)tps:​(Kristy Denney)e-re​(Fox Valley Foodie) Pie](https://boysahoy.com/oven-baked-frito-pie/)
2. Texas Frito Pie Recipe