Air Fryer Frito Pie

This easy Air Fryer Frito Pie layers crunchy Fritos with seasoned ground beef or chili and melty cheese, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer. It’s a quick, comforting dish that’s perfect for game day or a fun weeknight dinner. Top with your favorite fixings like sour cream, jalapeños, or green onions for a fully loaded bite!

This is one of my favorite recipes, it’s the perfect recipe to use any leftover Air Fryer Chili, and of course, it’s a family favorite and kid-friendly.

For a special treat, top with my recipe for Frito Snack Mix, guaranteed to a hit, at your next party or as just as an afterschool treat for the kids!

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick & Easy – Ready in minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.
• Crunchy & Cheesy – The air fryer keeps the Fritos crisp while the cheese melts perfectly.
• Perfect Comfort Food – A warm, hearty dish that satisfies every time.
• Customizable Toppings – Add your favorite fixings like sour cream, jalapeños, or green onions.
• Great for Game Day – A crowd-pleaser that’s fun to serve and easy to share.

Ingredients Needed

• Ground Beef – Savory, seasoned base that adds hearty, rich flavor.
• Onions – Fresh, chopped onions bring sweetness and depth.
• Minced Onions – Dried minced onions add texture and flavor boost.
• Chili Powder – Warm, smoky spice that enhances every savory bite.
• Pinto Beans – Creamy, protein-packed beans for added heartiness.
• Frito Corn Chips – Crunchy, salty chips that hold up beautifully.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melty, sharp cheddar brings bold cheesy goodness.
• Garnishes: Sour Cream, Frito Chips, Olives, Scallions, Sour Cream, Jalapeno Peppers, Salsa, etc.

How To Make Air Fryer Frito Pie

Step One: Start by browning your meat, onion, and garlic in a small skillet over medium heat. Cook until the meat is no longer pink. Then drain, mix in the chili powder, salsa, and pinto beans.

Step Two: Add about 1/4 cup of the filling to an oven-safe casserole dish, and set into the air fryer. Set the air fryer temperature to 330 degrees F, air fryer setting, and set cook time for 4-6 minutes, or until the casserole is warmed through.

Step Three: Add two tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese on top, and return to the air fryer. Set the temperature to 300 degrees F, air fryer setting, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted. Serve with your favorite toppings.

Recipe Notes/Variations

• Meat: you can easily change this to leaner meat cuts, including ground turkey or ground chicken.
• Seasonings: You can add taco seasoning, ground cumin, or even smoked paprika if you want to add more species.
• Cheese: Any of your favorite cheeses would work here. My favorites are Mexican cheese, Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, and even shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Chili: You can substitute the pinto beans for canned chili. This would be an excellent rich meal, and you can always brag how you made Chili in the Air Fryer!

Air Fryer Frito Pie Recipe Tips

• Draining: Make sure that you drain your ground beef after cooking. Otherwise, your Frito Pie will be very oily.
• Toppings: Any of your favorite Taco toppings work. This dish is great for a potluck, graduation, or party. My kids love these on game days!
• Large Casserole: If you want (and you have a larger air fryer), you can make this as one dish rather than in individual casserole dishes or ramekins.

Storing

• Storage: Sort any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will last for about 2 to 3 days.
• Reheat: Add any meat to another casserole dish, and reheat in the microwave or the air fryer. Heat until warmed through.
• Freezing: You can quickly freeze the ground beef, onions, and garlic, for a great freezer meal. For best results, thaw your beef mixture in the refrigerator overnight. The meat will keep well for about 2 to 3 months.

Air Fryer Frito Pie Recipe Faqs

Can I use canned chili instead of making my own? Yes! Canned chili works great for a shortcut—just make sure it’s thick enough so the dish doesn’t get soggy.

What size dish should I use in the air fryer? A small, oven-safe dish (like a 6-inch round or mini casserole) that fits inside your air fryer basket works best.

Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for a meatless crumble or extra beans, and use vegetarian chili.

How do I keep the Fritos crunchy? Layer them on top just before serving, or add a fresh handful after air frying for extra crunch.

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the filling in advance and assemble just before air frying to keep the texture fresh.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER CORNBREAD SAUSAGE STUFFING
• AIR FRYER CREAMED CORN CORNBREAD
• AIR FRYER SKILLET CORNBREAD
• EASY AIR FRYER TRADER JOE’S CORNBREAD

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