It’s 6pm, you’re tired, and everyone’s hungry. This Frito Cowboy Cabbage is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight. It combines hearty beef with crunchy chips in one single pan. You get a filling meal that your whole family will love.
This dish is a lifesaver when you need something fast and flavorful. It is warm, cheesy, and packed with satisfying textures. You can have this fresh dinner on the table in just 35 minutes. It is the ultimate comfort food for a chilly evening.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a winner because it is ready in 35 minutes. It is perfect for those busy fall nights when schedules are packed. You get your vegetables in without any complaints from picky eaters. The blend of tender cabbage and melted cheese is truly delicious.
Cleaning up is a breeze since you only use one skillet. It uses simple pantry staples that you likely already have on hand. Your family will enjoy the crunchy chip topping and savory beef base. It is a budget-friendly way to feed a hungry crowd.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making this dish is incredibly simple and stress-free for any home cook. You just brown the beef and toss everything into one skillet. There is very little chopping involved if you use pre-shredded cabbage. Even if you are a beginner, you can master this meal easily. The cabbage becomes perfectly tender after a short simmer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together to create a bold, Tex-Mex flavor profile.
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups Frito corn chips
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until no longer pink.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet and stir in the minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the taco seasoning and water, stirring to coat the beef.
- Incorporate the shredded cabbage, pinto beans, corn, and salsa.
- Reduce heat to medium, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, allowing it to melt.
- Top with Frito corn chips immediately before serving to maintain crunch.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this Frito Cowboy Cabbage straight from the skillet for a rustic feel. It pairs perfectly with a dollop of cool sour cream on top. You could also add a side of warm cornbread. This is a great kid-approved dinner for a cozy Tuesday night. Set the table and enjoy a stress-free family meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Reheat the beef and cabbage mixture in a skillet over medium heat. Do this for about five minutes until it is warmed through. Wait to add fresh Fritos until right before you eat. This keeps the chips from getting soggy.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip draining the excess fat from your ground beef.
- Avoid overcooking the cabbage to maintain a little bit of texture.
- Swap pinto beans for black beans if that is what you have.
- Use pre-shredded cabbage mix to save ten minutes of prep time.
- For back-to-school nights, double the batch for easy next-day lunches.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
- Sprinkle on some fresh cilantro for a pop of green color.
- Wait until the very last second to add the corn chips.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Make it vegetarian by using plant-based crumbles instead of beef.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
- Use ground turkey for a leaner and lighter protein option.
- Add diced bell peppers for extra autumn color and nutrition.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the beef and cabbage mixture earlier in the day. Simply reheat it on the stove when you are ready to eat. Just remember to add the cheese and chips at the end.
Will my kids actually eat the cabbage?
Most kids love this dish because of the melted cheese and chips. The cabbage softens and takes on the flavor of the taco seasoning. It is a hidden veggie win for many parents.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can easily make a quick blend using pantry staples. Mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This will give you that savory Tex-Mex taste you want.
I hope this easy skillet meal brings some calm to your busy weeknights. It is so satisfying to see everyone enjoy a warm, home-cooked dinner. Happy cooking!
— Alex
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 6 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup wate r
- 1/2 cup sals a
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups Frito corn chips
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until no longer pink.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet and stir in the minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the taco seasoning and water, stirring to coat the beef.
- Incorporate the shredded cabbage, pinto beans, corn, and salsa.
- Reduce heat to medium, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, allowing it to melt.
- Top with Frito corn chips immediately before serving to maintain crunch.
