Name: Frito Cowboy Cabbage
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 bag (16 ounces) coleslaw mix; 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 1/2 cups canned corn kernels, drained; 1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced; 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and finely diced; 3 green onions, finely sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 bag (9.75 ounces) Chili Cheese Fritos, reserving a handful for topping; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes); 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce from a can of chipotles in adobo (sauce only, not the peppers)

Jump to Recipe

This Frito Cowboy Cabbage delivers a bold, crunchy take on classic slaw with Tex-Mex flavor in every bite. Fresh cabbage, black beans, corn, and jalapeño get tossed in a smoky chipotle dressing, then finished with Chili Cheese Fritos for unmistakable crunch. It comes together fast, holds up well on the table, and disappears even faster at gatherings. If you want a side that brings texture, color, and crowd appeal without heating up the kitchen, this recipe belongs on your menu.

Story

I first made Frito Cowboy Cabbage for a backyard get-together when I needed a side that could stand next to grilled food without feeling heavy. Traditional slaw felt too expected, so I leaned into a Southwest direction with beans, corn, and a chipotle-forward dressing. The Fritos sealed the deal. They add crunch and a savory bite that turns this dish into a conversation starter. Since then, Frito Cowboy Cabbage has become my go-to for cookouts, game days, and last-minute invites. It fits right in as a potluck side dish, works as a corn chip salad, and satisfies anyone craving a creamy coleslaw twist with attitude.

Ingredients

1 bag (16 ounces) coleslaw mix
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 ½ cups canned corn kernels, drained
1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced
1 small red bell pepper, seeded and finely diced
3 green onions, finely sliced
¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
½ teaspoon ground cumin
1 bag (9.75 ounces) Chili Cheese Fritos, reserving a handful for topping

Chipotle Dressing

½ cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
2 tablespoons chipotle sauce from a can of chipotles in adobo (sauce only)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by placing the coleslaw mix in a large bowl. Add the black beans, corn, jalapeño, red bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and cumin. Toss until the vegetables and spices distribute evenly, making sure nothing clumps at the bottom.

Cooking Instructions

In a separate medium bowl, whisk the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, and chipotle sauce until smooth and fully blended. When ready to serve, pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir to coat. Add all but a handful of the Fritos and gently fold them in. Top with the reserved Fritos just before serving and bring it straight to the table.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid adding the Fritos too early. If they sit in the dressing for too long, they lose their crunch. Also, taste the dressing before mixing it in. Chipotle sauces vary in heat, so adjust with extra lime juice if needed.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

For deeper flavor, chill the dressed slaw for ten minutes before adding the chips. If you like more heat, keep some jalapeño seeds or add a splash of adobo sauce. This viral slaw recipe also handles protein additions like grilled chicken or blackened shrimp.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Frito Cowboy Cabbage alongside burgers, tacos, or barbecue. It also works as a topping for pulled pork sandwiches or as a scoopable salad with tortilla chips.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers without the Fritos in an airtight container for up to two days. Add fresh chips right before eating to bring back the crunch.

Conclusion

This Frito Cowboy Cabbage proves that slaw can be exciting, fast, and full of texture. With fresh vegetables, a smoky dressing, and crunchy chips, it checks every box for easy entertaining. Make it once, and it will earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine them shortly before serving. Add the Fritos at the last minute for best texture.

Is this salad spicy?

It has a mild to moderate kick from the chipotle sauce and jalapeño. You can reduce heat by using less chipotle sauce or skipping the jalapeño.

Can I swap the Fritos flavor?

Absolutely. Chili Cheese Fritos add bold flavor, but original Fritos or even plain corn chips work if you want a lighter taste.