If you have a soft spot for comforting, hearty snacks that bring people together, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Frito Bars Recipe. It combines the irresistible crunch of Fritos corn chips with a rich, savory mix of seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and gooey cheddar cheese, layered into a bubbly, golden-baked delight that’s perfect for any potluck or family gathering. Each bite delivers a symphony of textures and flavors that feel just like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Frito Bars Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the crunchy corn chips to the creamy sour cream, these simple pantry staples combine beautifully to create something extraordinary.
- 4 cups Fritos corn chips: These add an unbeatable crunch and a hint of corn sweetness that’s essential for the base and top layers.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides savory richness and hearty substance to make this dish truly satisfying.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that enhances the beef.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: This creamy ingredient binds everything together with a velvety texture and gentle earthiness.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings creamy tanginess and balances the savory flavors perfectly.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into glorious, gooey layers of cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Gives a savory kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional): Adds a warm, smoky spice for a little extra flavor depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Helps to sauté the onions and cook the beef perfectly.
How to Make Frito Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your Frito Bars come out easily without sticking. This small step makes for a seamless baking experience.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Cook the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the finely chopped onion. Cook until translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. This releases the sweetness and softens the texture beautifully. Next, add the ground beef and season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and if you like a touch of warmth, chili powder. Cook until browned through and no pink remains. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the layers balanced and not greasy.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Combination
In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until smooth and creamy. This mixture will bring moisture and richness to the baked bars, binding the layers with lush flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Frito Bars
Start by spreading half of the Fritos corn chips evenly in the bottom of your prepared dish. This first crunchy layer sets the texture foundation. Then layer half of the cooked beef mixture over the chips, followed by half of the creamy soup and sour cream mixture. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top to create a luscious, melty layer. Repeat these layers in the same order — remaining Fritos, beef, creamy mixture, and finish with the rest of the cheddar cheese on top. This layering is the magic that makes the Frito Bars so delightfully complex.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. This is where the flavors meld and the top crisps into a perfect finish. Once out of the oven, let the bars cool for about 5 minutes to settle and make slicing easier.
How to Serve Frito Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Once your Frito Bars are out of the oven, you can elevate them with fresh garnishes like chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of diced tomatoes and olives. These add brightness and color, balancing the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
These bars are fantastic on their own but paired with a crisp green salad or a side of seasoned black beans, they turn into a full, crowd-pleasing meal. A side of guacamole or a tangy salsa also complements the sweet and savory notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, slice the Frito Bars into bite-sized squares and serve on a festive platter with toothpicks. You can also layer the components in individual ramekins for personal servings, making them feel extra special and personalized.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, it’s best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen and taste even better the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the baked Frito Bars tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to keep the layers intact and delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes, until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly once again. Microwaving works too for a quick fix but the oven will help preserve the texture better.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chip instead of Fritos?
You can experiment with other corn chips, but Fritos have a unique corn flavor and crunch that really make this dish shine. Using something else may change the texture and taste, but it’s worth trying if needed.
Is the cream of mushroom soup necessary?
This soup provides creaminess and subtle earthiness which binds the ingredients. You could substitute with cream of chicken or celery soup if mushroom is not your thing, but the texture might be slightly different.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, beans, or a plant-based meat alternative to keep the hearty texture and flavor without the meat.
How spicy is the dish with the chili powder?
The chili powder adds a mild warmth rather than heat. If you prefer no spice, just leave it out, and your Frito Bars will still be wonderful and flavorful.
What is the best way to cut the Frito Bars?
Allowing the bars to cool for at least 5 minutes makes slicing easier. Use a sharp knife and cut into squares or rectangles, depending on the size you prefer for serving.
Final Thoughts
This Frito Bars Recipe is one of those keepsake dishes that bring comfort and joy in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a tasty, satisfying snack, this layered casserole-style treat will quickly become a beloved favorite. Give it a try and watch how effortlessly it becomes a star at your table!
Print
Frito Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Frito Bars are a savory, layered casserole combining crunchy Fritos, seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom and sour cream mixture, and melted cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. This dish makes for a comforting, crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course perfect for gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups Fritos corn chips
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Onion: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon chili powder if using. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking apart the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Prepare Cream Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine one 10.5-ounce can of cream of mushroom soup with 1 cup of sour cream. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Layer Fritos Base: Spread half of the 4 cups of Fritos corn chips evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the first crunchy layer.
- Add Ground Beef Layer: Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the Fritos layer.
- Spread Cream Mixture: Spoon and spread half of the cream of mushroom and sour cream mixture over the beef layer.
- Cheese Layer: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cream layer.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining Fritos chips, the remaining ground beef mixture, and the rest of the cream mixture. Finish by topping with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to set slightly. Slice into bars and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup if preferred.
- For extra spice, add more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture.
- This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
- Use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese to lower calories and fat content if desired.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
