One of the most traditional Tex-Mex dishes is Frito Pie, which is essentially a bag of Fritos topped with chili.
There are many variations, but chili, cheese, and onions are the main ingredients.
The taste of Frito Pie is distinct from other dishes in its spiciness and the crunchy texture of the corn chips.
The chili, the cheese, the Fritos – it all comes together in perfect harmony.
But what do you serve as a side dish to go with this southwestern classic? Well, look no further.
We’ve gathered up seven of the best side dishes to serve with Frito pie.
So whether you’re serving up a family feast or want something to share with friends, these recipes are sure to please.
What to Serve with Frito Pie? 7 BEST Side Dishes

Frito pie is a dish commonly associated with Texas, and it’s gaining in popularity, both in the United States and around the world.
It is made of Fritos, chili, cheese, and onions.
To this day, people are still trying to figure out who exactly invented Frito pie.
Some say it dates back to the 1960s, while others would guess that it was much earlier.
No one knows for sure when the first Frito pie recipe appeared, but there is no doubt that this savory dish has developed a strong following throughout history.
Frito pie has become popular in the past few years, and people are also adding their twist to this classic meal by serving side dishes with the Frito pie.
This move is a great idea, and you should consider it if you’re hosting a party and serving Frito pie.
Several dishes would be wonderful with the classic Frito Pie recipe.
1 – Corn Casserole

Casseroles are incredibly versatile, and you can make them out of almost anything.
This fried corn dish is sure to become one of your family favorites.
This cheesy side dish is perfect for any occasion, but it makes a particularly great addition to an evening barbecue or potluck.
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and pop this yummy casserole dish in the oven when you’re ready to serve it.
When preparing this dish, be sure to use fresh or canned corn for the best flavor.
You can also experiment with different cheeses – Gruyere cheese is a great choice.
2 – Creamy Mashed Potatoes

This flavorful side dish goes well with any beef or pork entrée and is great for a weekend family dinner.
The cream and garlic make these potatoes incredibly tasty, but you can adjust them to suit your specific tastes.
If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, go ahead and add more – if not, omit it or substitute onion powder.
This is a great dish for any special occasion, but it’s also perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick and easy to prepare.
The prep work for this recipe doesn’t take long, which means that it won’t put too much strain on your schedule.
When preparing this side dish, be sure to use high-quality potatoes.
Yukon gold potatoes are great for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, but if you prefer a different variety of potatoes, that’s fine too.
3 – Apple and Bacon Sauteed Brussels Sprouts

This simple side dish is bursting with flavor and aroma.
Brussels sprouts might be a common veggie, but this is a recipe that you’ll want to try again and again.
It’s a great recipe that can be made ahead of time and then popped in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
It’s a particularly good dish for a dinner party because it serves a crowd, but you can even prepare this dish for your family on those busy weeknights.
The flavor of these sauteed Brussels sprouts is something special.
Even Brussels sprouts haters will love this dish.
4 – Classic Fruit Salad

When you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s simple to prepare, classic fruit salad is the answer.
This fruit salad recipe features fresh juicy apples and berries, and it’s tossed in a light and refreshing dressing.
A great fruit salad has many wonderful benefits: it’s healthy, nutritious, and incredibly delicious.
You could easily make this salad for breakfast or brunch, making a great side dish option.
It’s simple to make this dish for your next dinner party or family dinner, but it’s also perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something light and easy to prepare.
5 – Roasted Green Beans with Shallots

Green beans are always a great idea.
These roasted green beans go well with any entree, and they’re also deliciously simple to prepare.
Depending on your preference and availability, you can use fresh or frozen green beans for this recipe.
If you prefer the taste of fresh green beans, it’s best to use those instead of frozen, though either is fine if that’s what you have available.
These roasted green beans are a wonderfully delicious side dish option studded with crispy shallots.
You can also add a bit of chicken broth to this recipe if you’d like extra moisture and flavor – be sure not to add too much because the shallots will become soggy.
6 – Mexican Street Corn Dip

Corn is a simple and delicious side dish that goes well with any main course.
This Mexican Street Corn Dip recipe is a tasty take on the classic American version of corn, making it a great option for parties and family dinners alike.
When preparing this dish, you’ll want to ensure that you char the corn to perfection.
This isn’t difficult to do, but it does take a little bit of time.
To quickly char the corn, cook over high heat until well-browned, and then let cool for a few minutes before removing the husk and cutting off the kernels.
The best thing about this dish is that it can be served as a dip or side dish.
If you’re looking for an easy and delicious take on corn, this recipe is perfect.
7 – Baked Zucchini Fries with Ranch Dipping Sauce

This baked zucchini fries recipe is a healthy option that your family will love.
It’s also incredibly easy to make, and it even tastes delicious dipped in ranch dressing.
When preparing this dish, you’re going to want to be sure that you choose zucchini with the right girth.
You don’t want them too small or too large, but you do want them in between.
A good size for this recipe is about 2 – 3 inches in diameter and 4 inches in length.
Zucchini fries are delicious on their own, but when you add ranch dressing, they become even more irresistible.
This recipe makes a great side dish option that everyone can enjoy.
Conclusion
Frito pie has been a popular dish throughout the United States for decades, traditionally served with chili.
If you’re looking for a great side dish to serve with this recipe, any one of these seven options would be perfect.
The flavor and taste of these recipes are truly special.
Try them out for yourself and see why they make such wonderful accompaniments for your favorite dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What wine pairs Frito pie?
Frito pie is a surprisingly versatile dish that can pair with many different types of wines.
To bring out the flavors of this dish, it’s best to opt for a medium-bodied white wine that is not too oaky or tannic, such as an unoaked Chardonnay, Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc.
For a red option, go for something light and fruity like a Pinot Noir or a Beaujolais Nouveau.
Where is Frito pie popular?
Frito pie is a classic American dish with its roots in Texas, but it can be found all over the country.
It’s particularly popular in the South and Midwest, where it is often served as part of tailgate parties or potlucks.
It has also become a favorite among college students looking for an affordable yet tasty meal.
Is Frito pie a healthy option?
Frito pie is not the healthiest dish, but it can be made healthier with some substitutions.
Consider swapping out the ground beef for leaner ground turkey or using low-fat cheese and sour cream instead of full-fat varieties. You can also opt for a whole-wheat Frito or other whole grain chip instead of the traditional variety.
Adding some fresh vegetables to the mix is also a good way to boost nutrition and flavor. With these modifications, Frito pie can be an enjoyable and nutritious meal for any occasion.
What vegetables go well with chili?
Chili is a great dish for adding fresh vegetables as accompaniments.
To bring out the flavors of chili, consider serving it with diced tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, chopped onions, jalapenos, and even corn kernels.
You can also add crunchy leafy greens like lettuce or spinach to provide balance and extra nutrition.
What to Serve with Frito Pie? 7 BEST Side Dishes

Ingredients
- Corn Casserole
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Apple and Bacon Sauteed Brussels Sprouts
- Classic Fruit Salad
- Roasted Green Beans with Shallots
- Mexican Street Corn Dip
- Baked Zucchini Fries with Ranch Dipping Sauce
Instructions
- Pick your favorite recipe from the article.
- Organize your ingredients and utensils.
- Follow the detailed instructions in the recipe to make your side dish.
- Prepare and serve for delicious meal!