Move Over Frito Pie! Cheeto Chili Is The New Hot Combo

If you live in the Midwest, you're probably used to transforming chips into delicious meals (hello, Frito pie and walking tacos). But even though chowing down on a walking taco is a beautiful culinary experience, there are so many other ways to incorporate your favorite chips into the foods you love the most.

Of course, Frito pie is here to stay, but the new rising star of the "chips-as-meals" game features a different, spicier chip. With just a bag of Flamin' Hot Cheetos, you can make a savory take on another popular American dish that's so good you'll be willing to scorch your tongue with flavor again and again. 

Some people already top this dish with various chips, but this hearty variation turns those chip toppings all upside-down, walking taco-style. It doesn't take much to make this, which is another reason to add it to your meal rotation. Flamin' Hot Cheetos liven up a variety of meals, from macaroni and cheese to chicken, and this one is certainly no exception.

Putting Flamin' Hot Cheetos anywhere near your chili might initially sound absurd, but it makes perfect sense. Blending the heat of the chips with the spice of chili peppers and hearing a satisfying "crunch" as a bold contrast to the thick, stew-like chili could make your homestyle favorite even more enjoyable to eat.

It doesn't hurt that Flamin' Hot Cheeto chili is easy to make. Dump some Cheetos in a bowl, just as you usually eat them. Then, instead of taking that long-awaited first bite, pour chili over them. (You can use store-bought chili or take the time to make your own). Of course, no chili is complete without a heaping sprinkle of cheese. You can also add avocado and cilantro to your Cheeto chili for a little bit of Southwest flair. You'll end up with something akin to a Flamin' Hot Cheeto walking taco with layers of heat to satisfy your spiciest flavor cravings. The Midwest meets the Southwest in this flamin' hot take on classic chili, but you will love this meal no matter where you are.

Pouring chili on top of your favorite chips is fun, but it's far from the only way to change your usual chili. Even though they may not incorporate your favorite chips, these other ways to elevate your chili are just as exciting.

If you prefer your chili with a bit of extra smoky flavor, bring in those hints of char with some liquid smoke. Liquid smoke isn't just fun to use; it's also an easy way to make your chili smokier and more robust. Love adult beverages? Pour in some beer or wine to add a boozy touch. The alcohol will cook off if you let it, but the flavors of your drink will linger in your chili, adding depth to its taste. 

You can even add your other favorite food: chocolate. Chocolate is often used in mole sauces but would work equally well in chili, so spoon in some unsweetened cocoa for a richer taste. Flamin' Hot Cheeto chili is taking over because it brings that one-of-a-kind spicy flavor layering, but it's one of many ways to make your everyday chili even more flavorful.