It’s not a surprise. And I can’t believe I’ve never posted this recipe before. My grandma invented it one summer, driving across the country in a Winnebago full of kids, my grandfather cruising the highways and byways of America.

It’s similar to Frito Pie, but it’s a little beefier. Ya know, when you have seven growing kids, you gotta add a bit more.

My friend Kara asked for the recipe yesterday, and I thought I’d share it.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (you could use ground turkey, but honestly this recipe is not anywhere near healthy)
• One can of Hormel chili with beans (It has to have beans)
• One bag Fritos
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• one canned sliced black olives, rinsed and drained
• Two tomatoes diced
• One avocado, pitted and sliced
• sour cream
• salsa

Directions

I like cooking Fritos Surprise in an electric skillet, but you can cook it on the stovetop in a regular skillet.

1. Crumble and fry the ground meat (drain as needed).
2. Add the chili and cook until heated through.
3. Top with Fritos and cheese.
4. Cook on low until cheese is melted.
5. Remove from heat.
6. Add tomatoes, olives, and avocados.
7. Dish out portions and top with sour cream and salsa as desired.

It serves about 6-9, depending on how much you eat. And it’s really good. In true grandma fashion, serve it with fruit salad and bread and butter.