Frito Pie with Homemade Chili

 I'm kind of surprised that I haven't posted this recipe before! Homemade chili is so easy to make and tastes way better than store bought! It's very forgiving and easy to adapt to your family's needs.  Play around with spices to get it just right. It also makes a lot so it's great for company or to freeze for later.

One of our favorite recipes to make with the chili is Frito Pie.  It's an incredibly fast meal (especially if you already have chili made).  It's similar to taco salad but with Fritos.  It's a great on the go meal too.  I've packed it for my kids lunches by putting the chili in a thermos and letting them top it themselves at school.  It also works great for big crowds.  We've made these for girl's camp for the last 3 years.  Give it a try!

Chili
1 lb. ground turkey (or ground beef)
1 green bell pepper (chopped)
1 tsp. cumin (or to taste)
1 tsp. garlic powder (or to taste)
1 tsp. onion powder (or to taste)
1 tsp. dried minced onion
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/2 cup flour
chili powder (to taste...honestly I use about 1/3 of a cup)
3-4 cups water
2 cans pinto beans
1 can kidney beans
1 can diced tomatoes
a dash of  Tabasco sauce

Brown turkey slightly.  Add bell pepper and spices and continue cooking until turkey is cooked through and bell pepper is softened.  Add flour and chili powder.  Add water slowly and stir well to get rid of all lumps of flour.  Add beans and tomatoes.  Bring to a boil and cook until thickened.  Add Tabasco if desired and reduce heat to low.  Simmer for 30-40 minutes.

Don't forget all seasonings can be adjusted if you like it spicier or more savory.  Play around with it!

Frito Pies
1 recipe of chili (above)
fritos
shredded cheese
roma tomatoes
shredded lettuce
onions
sour cream

Start with Fritos.  Top with chili, cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, onions and sour cream.  Enjoy!