Easy Frito Pie Sloppy Joes Recipe

Looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than this delicious Frito Pie Sloppy Joes recipe. This dish combines the savory goodness of classic Sloppy Joes with the crunchy, salty satisfaction of Frito pie, creating a flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
As a child, I vividly remember family gatherings where my mom would whip up her famous Sloppy Joes. The aroma of the simmering beef with spices filled the house, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with loved ones made these moments unforgettable. Now, I’ve added my own twist to this family classic by transforming it into a Frito pie delight. Each bite takes me back to those cherished gatherings, and now I get to share this updated version with my own family—and with you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s a quick and easy meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The unique combination of crispy Fritos and the rich, meaty Sloppy Joe mixture creates a texture and flavor explosion. Additionally, this dish is highly customizable to suit different dietary preferences and tastes, ensuring everyone will enjoy it.
Ingredients Notes
For this recipe, you’ll need ground beef, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, Fritos, and a few spices. Opt for high-quality ground beef to enhance the flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey can be a great substitute. Don’t forget the cheese—it adds a creamy note that balances the other flavors beautifully. If you wish to explore different tastes, consider adding jalapeños for a spicy kick or using flavored Fritos for added zest.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by browning the ground beef over medium heat in a large skillet. Cook until fully browned, breaking the meat apart with a spatula. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 2
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 3
Stir in the tomato sauce along with your chosen spices. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 4
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish. Top with a generous layer of Fritos followed by shredded cheese.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Storage Options
Leftovers should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or thaw overnight in the refrigerator and microwave until hot.
Variations & Substitutions
To make it vegetarian, substitute ground beef with a plant-based option like lentils or crumbled tempeh. For a Southwestern twist, add black beans and corn. For those who enjoy heat, mix in chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for game day gatherings or casual family dinners. Pair it with a simple green salad for a balanced meal. You could also serve it with homemade guacamole or sour cream on the side for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, add the Fritos and cheese, and bake according to the recipe instructions.
What type of cheese works best? Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for this dish due to its sharp flavor and meltability. However, other cheeses like Monterey Jack or even pepper jack can provide a different taste profile if you prefer.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier? Certainly! Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and opt for baked corn chips to reduce fat. Additionally, the amount of cheese can be moderated, and you can load up on veggies for extra nutrients.
So, gather your ingredients and enjoy this delightful fusion of flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the comforting warmth of a classic meal, reimagined with a delicious crunchy topping!

Easy Frito Pie Sloppy Joes Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef lean
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 0.5 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 8 ounces Fritos corn chips
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 whole hamburger buns
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned.
- Drain off any excess grease from the skillet.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Preheat the broiler. Spoon the beef mixture onto the bottom half of each hamburger bun.
- Top each with Fritos, a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, and the top half of the bun.
- Place the assembled buns on a baking sheet and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately.