Frito Pie Chili Dogs
Ingredients
Directions / Instructions
Why You'll Love These Frito Pie Chili Dogs
If you love classic chili dogs and crunchy Frito Pie, this recipe brings both favorites together in one unforgettable meal. Juicy hot dogs are tucked into toasted buns, topped with rich homemade chili, melted cheddar cheese, crispy Fritos, diced onions, and spicy jalapeños for the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, crunchy, and smoky flavors.
These loaded chili dogs are ideal for football parties, family dinners, cookouts, backyard barbecues, or anytime you're craving indulgent comfort food. They're easy to customize with your favorite toppings and come together in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Chili
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Hot Dogs
- 8 beef hot dogs
- 8 hot dog buns
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups Fritos corn chips
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- 1/4 cup sliced pickled jalapeños
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Yellow mustard (optional)
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chili
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the onion for about 4 minutes until softened, then add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Season the Chili
Stir in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until thickened.
3. Cook the Hot Dogs
Grill the hot dogs over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly charred. Alternatively, cook them on a grill pan or skillet.
4. Toast the Buns
Lightly toast the hot dog buns on the grill or in the oven until warm and slightly crisp.
5. Assemble the Chili Dogs
Place each hot dog inside a toasted bun. Spoon generous amounts of warm chili over each hot dog, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Add the Frito Pie Toppings
Top each chili dog with a generous handful of Fritos, diced onions, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and a drizzle of mustard or sour cream if desired.
7. Serve Immediately
Serve while the chili is hot and the Fritos remain crunchy.
Expert Tips
Use an extra-thick chili so it stays on the hot dogs without making the buns soggy. Toasting the buns adds flavor and helps hold up to the toppings. Add the Fritos immediately before serving to preserve their crunch. Freshly shredded cheddar melts much better than pre-shredded cheese.
Storage
Store the chili separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Keep the hot dogs, buns, cheese, and Fritos separate and assemble just before serving for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with potato salad, baked beans, macaroni salad, coleslaw, onion rings, French fries, sweet potato fries, dill pickles, grilled corn on the cob, or fresh watermelon. Pair with lemonade, iced tea, or your favorite soda for the ultimate cookout meal.
Recipe Variations
Substitute turkey or chicken hot dogs for a lighter version, use spicy sausage instead of hot dogs, add queso cheese sauce, top with crushed Doritos instead of Fritos, or make a Tex-Mex version with avocado, pico de gallo, and chipotle crema. Vegetarian chili and plant-based hot dogs also work beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
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