Description
Frito Cowboy Cabbage is a hearty, cheesy Southern-style casserole made with ground beef, cabbage, beans, and corn, all topped with crispy Fritos. It’s a crowd-pleasing comfort dish that’s packed with flavor, texture, and a little cowboy flair — perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ head green cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade blend)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups Fritos corn chips (crushed slightly)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, beans, corn, taco seasoning, and black pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage begins to soften.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, then sprinkle Fritos evenly over the top.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and Fritos are golden and crisp.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or sausage instead of beef for a variation.
- Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra spice.
- For a creamier version, stir in ½ cup of sour cream or cream of mushroom soup before baking.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or skillet — just top with fresh Fritos before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Southern-American