Texas Mess

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeno, diced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can chili beans
• 1 (10 ounce) bag Fritos
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream, for serving
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno until the beef is cooked through.
3. Add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano and stir to combine.
4. Add the tomatoes and chili beans and stir to combine. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Spread the Fritos on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with the beef mixture and spread evenly.
7. Sprinkle the cheese on top.
8. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve with sour cream and cilantro, if desired.

Interesting Facts

• The Texas Mess originated in Texas in the late 1970s.
• The dish is similar to Frito Pie, a classic Texan dish that dates back to the 1930s.
• The dish is often served with chili, but can also be served with other proteins, such as ground beef, shredded chicken, or ground turkey.