Thomas Rhett & Lauren Akins’ Frito Pie: A Country Music Comfort Food Recipe
Frito pie. Just the name conjures up images of county fairs, football games, and down-home comfort. It’s a simple dish, yet deeply satisfying, a symphony of textures and flavors that dance on your tongue. And when that Frito pie recipe comes from the kitchen (or more likely, the tailgate) of country music superstar Thomas Rhett and his wife, Lauren Akins, you know you’re in for something special. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a taste of their family traditions, a glimpse into their lives beyond the stage and the red carpet.
So, grab your skillet, crank up some Thomas Rhett tunes, and let’s dive into the world of Rhett and Akins’ Frito pie. We’ll explore the origins of this classic dish, break down their specific recipe (gleaned from interviews, social media, and a healthy dose of culinary deduction), and offer tips and tricks to make it your own. Get ready for a flavor explosion that’s as warm and inviting as a Rhett Akins ballad.
The History of Frito Pie: More Than Just a Bag of Chips
Before we get cooking, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane to understand the roots of this beloved dish. The exact origins of Frito pie are debated, but most food historians agree it emerged in the American Southwest, likely in Texas or New Mexico, sometime in the mid-20th century. The popularity of Fritos corn chips, introduced in 1932, played a crucial role in its creation.
Several stories claim ownership of the Frito pie concept. One popular narrative credits Daisy Doolin, the mother of Fritos inventor Charles Elmer Doolin, with creating an early version of the dish. Another story points to Teresa Hernandez, a cafeteria worker at the Frito Company in Dallas, who is said to have served a similar concoction to employees.
Regardless of its precise origin, Frito pie quickly gained traction as an affordable, convenient, and delicious meal. It was a staple at school cafeterias, sporting events, and family gatherings, solidifying its place in American culinary history. The beauty of Frito pie lies in its adaptability. The basic formula of Fritos, chili, cheese, and toppings can be customized to suit individual tastes and preferences, making it a truly versatile dish.
Thomas Rhett and Lauren Akins’ Frito Pie: A Family Favorite
While Thomas Rhett and Lauren Akins haven’t published a precise, detailed Frito pie recipe, through various interviews and social media posts, we can piece together their likely approach. Their version, like many, is rooted in simplicity and emphasizes fresh, flavorful ingredients. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends and family.
Here’s what we can infer about their Frito pie:
* **Hearty Chili:** The foundation of any good Frito pie is the chili. Given their Southern roots, it’s likely that Thomas Rhett and Lauren prefer a Texas-style chili, meaning it’s primarily made with beef and chili peppers, without beans. However, they might opt for a chili with beans, especially for family-friendly gatherings.
* **Classic Toppings:** They likely stick to classic toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, sour cream, and maybe a dollop of guacamole. The key is to keep it fresh and flavorful.
* **Family-Friendly:** Given they have several young children, the spice level is likely moderate, catering to younger palates.
* **Casual Presentation:** This is a dish that’s meant to be enjoyed without fuss. Whether served in individual Frito bags or assembled in a large casserole dish, the presentation is always relaxed and inviting.
Based on these insights, let’s craft a delicious Frito pie recipe inspired by Thomas Rhett and Lauren Akins’ family favorite.
The Recipe: Thomas Rhett & Lauren Akins-Inspired Frito Pie
This recipe aims to capture the essence of a Rhett Akins family meal: comforting, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and toppings to your liking.
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 30 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Chili:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
* 1.5 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
* 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans or pinto beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
* 2 tablespoons chili powder
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
* 1 cup beef broth or water
* **For the Frito Pie:**
* 1 large bag (10.5 ounces) Fritos corn chips
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup chopped white onion
* 1 cup sour cream
* 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
* Guacamole (optional)
* Pickled jalapeños (optional, for heat)
**Equipment:**
* Large skillet or Dutch oven
* 9×13 inch baking dish (optional, for casserole-style preparation)
**Instructions:**
**1. Prepare the Chili:**
* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant.
* Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
* Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans (if using), chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper.
* Pour in the beef broth or water and bring to a simmer.
* Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
**2. Assemble the Frito Pie (Individual Bags):**
* For a classic, individual serving, gently crush the Fritos inside the bag.
* Open the bag and spoon a generous amount of chili over the Fritos.
* Top with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, sour cream, cilantro (if using), guacamole (if using), and pickled jalapeños (if using).
* Serve immediately and enjoy!
**3. Assemble the Frito Pie (Casserole Style):**
* Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Spread a layer of Fritos corn chips evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
* Pour the chili over the Fritos, spreading it evenly.
* Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chili.
* Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
* Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
* Top with chopped onion, sour cream, cilantro (if using), guacamole (if using), and pickled jalapeños (if using).
* Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations: Making It Your Own
The beauty of Frito pie is its flexibility. Here are some tips and variations to customize this recipe to your liking:
* **Chili Variations:**
* **Texas-Style Chili:** For a true Texas chili, omit the beans and use beef chuck roast, cut into small cubes, instead of ground beef. Add a small amount of masa harina to thicken the chili.
* **White Chicken Chili:** Substitute ground beef with shredded cooked chicken and use white beans (like cannellini beans) instead of kidney beans. Use chicken broth instead of beef broth.
* **Vegetarian Chili:** Use plant-based ground meat substitute or a combination of beans and vegetables (like corn, black beans, and bell peppers) for a vegetarian version.
* **Spicy Chili:** Add more cayenne pepper, a chopped jalapeño pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the chili for extra heat.
* **Cheese Variations:**
* **Monterey Jack:** For a milder flavor, use Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar.
* **Pepper Jack:** For a spicier kick, use Pepper Jack cheese.
* **Queso Fresco:** Crumble queso fresco over the top for a fresh, tangy flavor.
* **Topping Variations:**
* **Avocado:** Add diced avocado for a creamy, healthy topping.
* **Diced Tomatoes:** Top with fresh diced tomatoes for a burst of freshness.
* **Shredded Lettuce:** Add shredded lettuce for a crisp, refreshing element.
* **Hot Sauce:** Offer a variety of hot sauces for guests to customize their spice level.
* **Black Olives:** Add sliced black olives for a salty, briny flavor.
* **Green Onions:** Substitute chopped green onions for white onions for a milder flavor.
* **Frito Variations:**
* **Flavored Fritos:** Experiment with different flavors of Fritos, such as chili cheese or barbecue.
* **Doritos:** For a different texture and flavor, substitute Fritos with Doritos.
* **Make it Ahead:** The chili can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld even further.
* **Slow Cooker Option:** The chili can also be made in a slow cooker. Simply brown the ground beef and then transfer all the chili ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Serving Suggestions: Complete the Experience
Frito pie is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate the experience:
* **Side Salad:** Serve with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the Frito pie.
* **Coleslaw:** A creamy coleslaw is a classic pairing with Frito pie.
* **Cornbread:** A slice of warm cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the chili.
* **Drinks:** Pair with your favorite beverages, such as iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer.
* **Dessert:** Follow up with a simple dessert like brownies, cookies, or ice cream.
Why This Recipe Works: Comfort and Simplicity
This Frito pie recipe, inspired by Thomas Rhett and Lauren Akins, works because it’s all about comfort and simplicity. It uses readily available ingredients, is easy to prepare, and delivers a satisfying and flavorful meal. The combination of crispy Fritos, hearty chili, melted cheese, and fresh toppings creates a symphony of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re a country music fan or simply looking for a delicious and easy weeknight meal, this Frito pie recipe is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, put on some Thomas Rhett tunes, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Southern comfort!
Beyond the Recipe: The Rhett Akins Family Vibe
Ultimately, this recipe isn’t just about the ingredients and instructions. It’s about capturing the spirit of the Rhett Akins family – their warmth, their love of good food, and their down-to-earth approach to life. It’s about creating a meal that brings people together, fosters connection, and creates lasting memories.
So, as you’re preparing this Frito pie, remember to put on some music, invite your loved ones, and enjoy the process. After all, the best meals are the ones that are shared with good company and a whole lot of love. And who knows, maybe you’ll even find yourself singing along to a Thomas Rhett song while you’re at it!
Enjoy your Rhett Akins-inspired Frito pie!