Name: Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped; 1 lb (450 g) ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup frozen corn; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups corn chips

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I love making this Frito Cowboy Cabbage recipe when I want something hearty, flavorful, and full of comforting textures. It combines tender cabbage, savory meat, and a slightly crunchy topping that makes every bite satisfying. I find it perfect for casual dinners, potlucks, or whenever I want a rustic, crowd-pleasing dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how this recipe turns simple ingredients into a bold and filling meal. The cabbage becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks, soaking up all the seasonings.

I also enjoy the contrast of textures. The warm, savory base pairs beautifully with the crunchy topping added at the end. It’s a dish that feels comforting and satisfying without being complicated to prepare. Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

green cabbage, chopped
ground beef
onion, diced
garlic, minced
diced tomatoes with green chilies
tomato sauce
frozen corn
chili powder
ground cumin
paprika
salt
black pepper
shredded cheddar cheese
corn chips

Directions

I start by heating a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
I cook the ground beef until browned, then drain any excess grease.
I add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
I stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for several minutes until it begins to soften.
I add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, frozen corn, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
I stir everything together, cover, and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
I sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt.
Just before serving, I top the dish with corn chips for a crunchy finish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe typically serves 4–6 people.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 40–45 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. If I want extra heat, I add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

For a heartier version, I stir in cooked rice or black beans. I also enjoy adding a dollop of sour cream or chopped green onions on top before serving.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I keep the corn chips separate so they stay crisp.

When reheating, I warm the cabbage mixture on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. I add fresh corn chips on top just before serving. Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the cabbage mixture in advance and reheat it before serving. I add the corn chips at the last minute to maintain their crunch.

Can I freeze Frito Cowboy Cabbage?

Yes, I freeze the cabbage and meat mixture without the topping for up to 3 months. I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is this dish spicy?

I find it mildly spiced. If I prefer less heat, I use plain diced tomatoes instead of ones with green chilies.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, I substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans for a meatless version.

What can I serve with this dish?

I enjoy serving it on its own as a complete meal, but it also pairs well with cornbread or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

I always enjoy preparing this Frito Cowboy Cabbage recipe because it delivers bold, comforting flavors with simple ingredients. The tender cabbage, savory filling, and crunchy topping create a satisfying combination that’s perfect for sharing. Whenever I want a rustic and hearty meal, this is a recipe I happily make.

Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe

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A hearty and comforting cabbage dish made with seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, tomatoes, and corn, topped with melted cheddar cheese and crunchy corn chips. Perfect for casual dinners, potlucks, or a satisfying family meal.

Author: Lizaa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Ingredients

1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup frozen corn
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups corn chips

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Instructions

Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes until it begins to soften.
Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, frozen corn, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Stir well, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and allow it to melt.
Just before serving, top with corn chips for added crunch.