Print

Skillet Frito Chili Pie Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 85 reviews

This Skillet Frito Chili Pie is a comforting and hearty one-pan dish featuring a flavorful blend of lean ground beef, kidney beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and diced green chiles simmered with classic chili spices. Cream cheese and sour cream mixed with ranch dressing add a creamy tang, while shredded Cheddar cheese melts on top for richness. Finished with crunchy Fritos corn chips and optional green onions, this easy-to-make skillet meal delivers layers of texture and flavor, perfect for a satisfying family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Cream Cheese Mixture

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons ranch dressing mix (from 1-oz package)

Chili Base

  • 1 lb ground extra lean beef
  • 1/3 cup chopped onion
  • 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained & rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) fire roasted diced or crushed tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 can (4.5 oz each) diced green chiles
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups Fritos corn chips
  • 3 tablespoons sliced green onions (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, thoroughly stir together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch dressing mix until completely combined and smooth. Set aside this creamy topping for later use.
  2. Cook Ground Beef and Onions: Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground extra lean beef and chopped onion, cooking for 6 to 8 minutes or until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish lean.
  3. Add Chili Ingredients: To the cooked beef and onion, stir in the drained red kidney beans, undrained fire roasted tomatoes, diced green chiles, chili powder, ground cumin, and salt. Bring the mixture to a light boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Simmer Chili: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chili mixture slightly thickens and the flavors meld together.
  5. Add Cream Cheese Mixture and Cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low. Drop rounded tablespoons of the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly over the surface of the meat mixture. Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese on top. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted and the pockets of cream cheese are heated through.
  6. Finish With Toppings and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle 2 cups of Fritos corn chips evenly over the melted cheese layer. Optionally, garnish with sliced green onions to add freshness and a mild onion flavor. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy, cheesy chili and crunchy chips.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add extra diced green chiles or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Using extra lean ground beef reduces grease, but you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Keep the cream cheese mixture at room temperature for easier spreading and melting.
  • If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer a few minutes longer before adding the cheese toppings.
  • Serve with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, as Fritos can soften if left too long.

Keywords: skillet chili pie, frito chili pie, easy chili recipe, one-pan dinner, creamy chili, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://kitchenwithkai.com/skillet-frito-chili-pie-recipe/