Frito Burgers Recipe

Updated on August 28th, 2025

Frito burgers are the kind of meal that instantly feels fun and over the top, loaded with chili, cheese, and the crunch of Frito chips all in one bite. The homemade chili con carne is what makes these burgers stand out because it’s made with stew meat and bacon, simmered low and slow until tender, and then brightened up with lime juice for extra flavor. Once the burgers are grilled and topped with melted cheddar, they’re piled high with chili, red onion, and a layer of chips for crunch. This recipe is filling, messy in the best way, and a great choice for game day or any time you want a burger with a little extra character.

Why this recipe works

• Rich and flavorful chili: Using both stew meat and bacon gives the chili a smoky, meaty depth that canned versions just can’t match.
• Balance of textures: The juicy burger, creamy cheese, and crispy Fritos create a combination that makes every bite interesting.
• Simple grilling method: The burgers cook quickly on the grill or griddle, making them easy to prepare alongside the slow-simmered chili.
• Fresh lift from lime: A squeeze of lime in the chili brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the meat.
• Crowd-pleasing idea: The burger feels like a complete meal and works well as a centerpiece for game day spreads or casual gatherings.

Serving suggestions

• Classic burger plate: Serve with fries or onion rings to keep it in the comfort food lane.
• Lighter sides for balance: A green salad or grilled vegetables can help balance out the richness of the burger and chili.
• Make it party-style: Prepare the patties and chili ahead of time, then set up a build-your-own burger bar with toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, and extra cheese.
• Pair with drinks: Cold beer, lemonade, or even iced tea work well with the smoky, spicy flavors of the chili.
• Use leftover chili: Any extra chili can be served on hot dogs, baked potatoes, or even over rice for another easy meal.

Frito Burgers Recipe

Save Recipe Recipe Saved

Print Recipe

Juicy burgers topped with chili and crunchy chips make these Frito burgers a flavorful recipe you’ll want to serve again and again.

• Author: Bobby
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 Servings 1x

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

Chili Con Carne-

• 4 strips bacon (chopped)
• 1lb beef stew meat, or chuck roast (cut into small chunks)
• 1 small onion (peeled and chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground chipotle chili
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 (14 ounce) can kidney beans (drained)
• 1 (14 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 lime (juiced)
• 1 tablespoon masa corn flour
• salt and pepper

Burgers-

• 2lbs ground chuck
• seasoning salt
• 1 red onion (sliced into rings)
• 6 slices cheddar cheese
• 1 bag frito chips
• 6 hamburger buns

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Place the chopped bacon into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Brown the bacon and then add the chopped stew meat, onions and garlic. Cook for another 5-8 minutes or until the beef is browned on all sides. Stir occasionally.
2. Add chili powder, chipotle chili, cumin, oregano and sugar to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes and kidney beans. Add a ½ teaspoon of salt and a ½ teaspoon of pepper. Stir and cover. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is very tender. Add the masa and lime juice. Stir and allow the masa to thicken the chili for another 5 minutes.
3. Lightly grease the grates of an outdoor grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Form the ground beef into 6 patties. Sprinkle on both sides with seasoning salt. Grill the patties for about 5 minutes per side or until fully cooked (the internal temperature has reached 160 degrees F). During the last few minutes of cooking top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese has melted.
4. Optional step: Turn the heat to low on the grill, and place the buns cut side down and cook until toasted, being careful not to burn the buns.
5. To assemble to burgers: Place a couple of slices of red onion onto the top of the bottom bun, followed by a hamburger patty, a heaping scoop of the chili and frito chips. Place the top bun over the frito chips.

Nutrition

• Serving Size:
• Calories: 901
• Sugar: 13.7 g
• Sodium: 1507.3 mg
• Fat: 25.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 168.3 g
• Protein: 35.1 g
• Cholesterol: 90.4 mg