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Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe

4.9 from 111 reviews

Frito Cowboy Cabbage is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef, crunchy cabbage, black beans, corn, and ripe tomatoes, all topped with crispy Fritos and melted cheddar cheese. This Tex-Mex inspired skillet recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying lunch or casual dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat & Seasoning

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning

Vegetables & Beans

  • 4 cups chopped green cabbage
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup canned sweet corn, drained

Toppings & Dressing

  • 2 cups Fritos corn chips
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup ranch dressing or Southwest-style dressing

Instructions

  1. Cook the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until thoroughly browned. Once cooked, drain the excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
  2. Add taco seasoning and simmer: Sprinkle the taco seasoning packet over the browned beef. Add a small splash of water, stir well, and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Prepare vegetables: While the beef is cooking, chop the green cabbage into bite-sized pieces and dice the tomatoes. Drain the canned black beans and sweet corn thoroughly.
  4. Combine ingredients: In a large serving bowl or casserole dish, layer the chopped cabbage first, then add the seasoned beef, followed by black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Toss the mixture gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
  5. Add Fritos and cheese: Sprinkle 2 cups of Fritos corn chips over the layered mixture, then evenly distribute 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  6. Finish with dressing: Just before serving, drizzle ½ cup of ranch or Southwest-style dressing over the dish. Toss lightly if desired to combine the flavors without breaking the chip crunch.

Notes

  • To keep the Fritos crispy, add them and the dressing right before serving.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
  • For a spicier kick, use a Southwest-style dressing or add diced jalapeños.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated but best eaten within 2 days as chips may lose their crunch.

Keywords: Frito Cowboy Cabbage, Tex-Mex cabbage recipe, taco seasoned ground beef, Fritos salad, easy skillet dinner