Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe

Introduction

Frito Cowboy Cabbage is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines seasoned ground beef with fresh vegetables and crunchy Fritos. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 4 cups chopped green cabbage
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup canned sweet corn, drained
• 2 cups Fritos corn chips
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup ranch dressing or Southwest-style dressing

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Step 2: Add taco seasoning and a splash of water to the beef. Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
3. Step 3: While the beef is cooking, chop the cabbage and dice the tomatoes. Drain the corn and rinse the black beans.
4. Step 4: In a large serving bowl or casserole dish, layer the cabbage, cooked beef, black beans, corn, and tomatoes. Toss gently to combine.
5. Step 5: Top the mixture with Fritos and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Step 6: Drizzle ranch or Southwest-style dressing just before serving. Toss lightly if desired to coat everything.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add chopped green onions or cilantro when layering the salad.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
• Use a spicy dressing to add a kick, or replace Fritos with tortilla strips for a different crunch.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the Fritos crunchy, add them fresh when serving rather than storing mixed in. Reheat the beef mixture separately if needed, then assemble before eating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.

Is it best served warm or cold?

This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Adding the dressing and Fritos just before serving ensures the best texture.

Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 120 reviews

Frito Cowboy Cabbage is a hearty and flavorful layered dish combining seasoned ground beef, fresh cabbage, beans, corn, and tomatoes topped with crunchy Fritos, melted cheddar cheese, and a creamy ranch or Southwest-style dressing. This no-bake casserole-style recipe comes together quickly and offers a satisfying mix of textures and Southwestern flavors perfect for a casual meal or gathering.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Southwestern American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Seasoning

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning

Vegetables and 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 and Dressing

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

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, stirring occasionally to break it apart. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Season the Beef: Add the packet of taco seasoning and a splash of water to the beef. Stir to combine and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is well-coated and flavorful.
3. Prepare Vegetables and Beans: While the beef cooks, chop the green cabbage and dice the tomatoes. Drain the canned black beans and sweet corn thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
4. Layer the Ingredients: In a large serving bowl or casserole dish, first layer the chopped cabbage. Then add the seasoned ground beef, followed by the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the Fritos corn chips over the layered mixture, then evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
6. Finish with Dressing: Just before serving, drizzle the ranch or Southwest-style dressing over the top. Toss lightly if desired to mix the dressing into the dish for added creaminess and flavor.

Notes

• Drain canned ingredients well to prevent the dish from becoming soggy.
• For a spicier kick, choose Southwest-style dressing or add chopped jalapeños.
• This recipe can be served cold or at room temperature.
• Use fresh homemade taco seasoning if preferred for a more natural flavor.
• Fritos add crunch but can be replaced with tortilla chips if desired.

Keywords: Frito Cowboy Cabbage, taco seasoned ground beef, layered cabbage casserole, Southwestern casserole, easy weeknight dinner, no bake casserole