For too long, my relationship with cooking beans was complicated. My unwavering motto used to be, “Love to eat ’em, hate to cook ’em!” This sentiment stemmed from the traditional method of preparing dried beans, which invariably demands a tedious overnight soak. The problem? Life. Usually, by the time dinner is done, I’m too full and content to even consider what I might want to eat the following day, let alone embark on a pre-soak ritual. Such a process requires extreme foresight, meticulous planning, and a level of organization that, frankly, I often lack.

But what if there was a way to bypass this overnight commitment entirely? What if you could transform humble, dried beans into a creamy, delicious foundation for countless meals in a fraction of the time, without any pre-soaking whatsoever? This question used to linger in my kitchen until a revolutionary discovery changed everything. I’m thrilled to share a game-changing method that has completely transformed my approach to cooking legumes, opening up a world of effortless, nutritious, and incredibly flavorful dishes, starting with an irresistible White Bean Chili Frito Pie.

Embracing the Pressure Cooker: The End of Overnight Soaking

The culinary revelation came with the humble, yet mighty, pressure cooker. I discovered that with this ingenious kitchen appliance, you can cook a variety of beans – including the Great Northern beans used in this White Bean Chili Frito Pie – directly from dry, bypassing the traditional overnight soak. This isn’t just a minor convenience; it’s a monumental shift that empowers spontaneous cooking and opens up a realm of possibilities for healthy, homemade meals on busy weeknights. No longer do I need to plan 12-24 hours ahead. Now, a craving for a hearty bean dish can be satisfied in under an hour, from start to finish. This method not only saves an incredible amount of time but also produces perfectly tender beans with a rich, developed flavor that often surpasses stovetop methods.

Imagine the aroma of savory chili simmering, knowing that just moments ago, those beans were hard and dry. This convenience is a blessing for anyone with a busy schedule, a love for wholesome food, and a desire to simplify their cooking routine. It’s about transforming what once felt like a chore into an effortless culinary adventure, making nutritious meals more accessible than ever before. For this White Bean Chili Frito Pie, the pressure cooker is truly the secret ingredient, allowing you to whip up a comforting classic with unprecedented speed.

The EZ Bean Cooker: A Gadget with Heart

Speaking of ingenious kitchen gadgets, I must introduce you to the EZ Bean Cooker. Not only is this device a stroke of genius for anyone who loves beans, but the individuals behind the company are genuinely wonderful. When they approached me with an offer to create a recipe featuring the EZ Bean Cooker, I saw an opportunity to do something truly meaningful. Instead of accepting payment for my work, I proposed an alternative: a donation. I suggested that they contribute $2,000 to my local Boys and Girls Club, an organization that Scott and I have proudly supported and adopted. It was a perfect exchange that benefited everyone.

This collaboration turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences. I get to revel in the joy of perfectly cooked beans, ready in 60 minutes or less, without the hassle of pre-soaking. And the DeSoto branch of the Boys & Girls Club was able to reach its crucial fundraising goal, making up a significant difference they needed. It’s a testament to the power of thoughtful partnerships and how a love for food can extend beyond the kitchen to make a tangible impact in the community. This cooker isn’t just about convenience; it’s about enabling more time for what matters, whether it’s cooking for your family or supporting a cause close to your heart.

And now for the exciting news that directly benefits you, my wonderful readers! To celebrate this incredible partnership and the convenience the EZ Bean Cooker brings, I’m giving away one of these fantastic appliances. Imagine transforming your weeknight dinners with perfectly cooked beans every time, just like in this White Bean Chili Frito Pie recipe. Don’t miss your chance to win this kitchen essential that makes healthy, homemade cooking a breeze. Be sure to check out this giveaway post to enter and bring the magic of no-soak beans to your own kitchen!

Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the star of the show: a mouthwatering White Bean Chili Frito Pie. This recipe is a vibrant celebration of hearty comfort food, perfectly balanced with a kick of spice and that irresistible crunch of Fritos. It’s a dish that brings smiles to faces, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering with friends. Enjoy the recipe!

White Bean Chili Frito Pie Recipe Video

Before you begin, get a visual guide to this incredible dish. Watch how simple it is to bring this comforting White Bean Chili Frito Pie to life with the power of your pressure cooker. This video walks you through each step, ensuring your success in creating a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy.

This White Bean Chili Frito Pie is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It combines the creamy texture of white beans with savory ham, fresh vegetables, and the delightful tang of diced tomatoes with green chiles, all brought together with a vibrant taco seasoning. Topped with crunchy Frito chips, it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will quickly become a family favorite. The beauty of using a pressure cooker, or specifically the EZ Bean Cooker, for this recipe lies in its sheer simplicity and speed, making a complex-tasting dish achievable even on your busiest days.

Pressure Cooker White Bean Chili Frito Pie Recipe

Unlock the secret to an effortless, hearty White Bean Chili Frito Pie. This recipe is designed for both traditional pressure cookers and the innovative EZ Bean Cooker, making it incredibly simple to create a comforting meal without the need for pre-soaking your beans. Enjoy rich, savory flavors and a delightful crunch in every bite.

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Servings 8 – 10

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups cooked ham, cubed
• 1 red pepper, chopped (adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color)
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (for fresh flavor and acidity)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels (sweetness and texture)
• 1 onion, chopped (the aromatic base of the chili)
• 1 pound dry white beans, rinsed & drained (Great Northern Beans are ideal for their creamy texture)
• 2 cans diced tomatoes with green chiles (look for Rotel brand for that perfect Tex-Mex kick)
• 1 envelope taco seasoning (the key to authentic chili flavor)
• 2 cups water (or vegetable/chicken broth for added depth of flavor)

Instructions

 

The beauty of this White Bean Chili Frito Pie recipe lies in its straightforward “dump and cook” method, especially when utilizing a pressure cooker. Forget the fuss of multiple pots and pans; everything comes together in one vessel, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. Follow these simple steps for a truly satisfying meal.

• Begin by carefully sorting through your dry white beans. Remove and discard any foreign material, small stones, or any shriveled or discolored beans. This crucial step ensures a smooth and enjoyable eating experience. Once sorted, rinse the beans thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove any residual dust or debris. After rinsing, drain them well. Now, add the sorted and rinsed beans to the inner cooking pot of your pressure cooker. Follow with the measured water (or broth for richer flavor) and all the additional ingredients: cubed ham, chopped red pepper, chopped tomatoes, frozen corn, chopped onion, the two cans of diced tomatoes with green chiles, and the full envelope of taco seasoning. Stir everything together gently to combine.

FOR EZ BEAN COOKER:

If you’re using the fantastic EZ Bean Cooker, the process is incredibly streamlined for your convenience. This appliance is designed to take the guesswork out of cooking beans.

• Once all ingredients are in the inner pot, carefully replace the lid on the EZ Bean Cooker. Turn the lid clockwise until it locks securely in place, ensuring a tight seal. Before proceeding, double-check that the pressure release valve is set to the closed vent (sealed) position. Locate and select the “Great Northern Beans” button on your cooker’s control panel, then press “Start.” The cooker will automatically adjust time and pressure for perfect results. Once the cooking cycle is complete and the cooker signals, exercise caution. Carefully use a utensil to manually release the pressure by switching the valve to the “venting” position. Once all steam has dissipated and the pressure indicator drops, you can safely open the lid.

FOR REGULAR PRESSURE COOKER:

For those using a standard stovetop or electric pressure cooker, the steps are equally straightforward, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

• After combining all the ingredients in the inner pot, securely seal the lid of your pressure cooker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure the pressure release valve is in the sealed position. Cook under high pressure for 50 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, you have two options for releasing pressure: either allow for a natural pressure release (NPR) for 10-15 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure, or perform a quick pressure release (QPR) by carefully moving the valve to the venting position. Always follow your specific pressure cooker’s safety guidelines for pressure release. Once pressure is fully released and the lid opens easily, your White Bean Chili is ready.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Serving Suggestions and Customization

The beauty of this White Bean Chili Frito Pie extends far beyond its ease of preparation. Once cooked, the chili is rich, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. While the core recipe is a showstopper on its own, here are some ideas to elevate your Frito Pie experience and make it uniquely yours:

• Classic Frito Pie Toppings: The most essential topping is, of course, a generous layer of crunchy Frito chips. Beyond that, consider shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a creamy tang, and fresh chopped cilantro.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit more heat, add some sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chili during cooking.
• Add More Freshness: A squeeze of lime juice just before serving brightens all the flavors. Diced avocado or a spoonful of fresh pico de gallo can also add wonderful texture and zest.
• Make it a Meal: Serve the White Bean Chili Frito Pie alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Cornbread or warm tortillas are also excellent accompaniments for soaking up every last bit of this delicious chili.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: For a delicious vegetarian option, simply omit the cubed ham. You can replace it with additional vegetables like diced bell peppers of various colors, zucchini, or mushrooms, or even a plant-based sausage alternative to maintain a hearty texture.

This recipe is not just about a quick meal; it’s about bringing joy and flavor to your table with minimal effort. The robust taste of the white bean chili, combined with the satisfying crunch of Fritos, creates a comforting dish that everyone will adore. It’s perfect for casual weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or potlucks where you want to impress without the stress.

I hope this Pressure Cooker White Bean Chili Frito Pie becomes a staple in your kitchen. It’s a testament to how modern cooking tools, like the pressure cooker or the EZ Bean Cooker, can demystify the art of cooking, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Embrace the convenience, savor the flavors, and most importantly, enjoy the process of creating delicious food for yourself and your loved ones. Happy cooking!