Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add 4 cups of shredded potatoes, pressing them down to form a flat layer.
Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Flip the hash browns carefully and cook the other side until crispy and golden, which should take another 5-7 minutes.
Remove the hash browns from the skillet and set aside.
Add diced onion to the same skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and 2 cups of shredded cabbage, cooking until tender, around 5-7 minutes.
Return the crispy hash browns to the skillet, mixing them with the cabbage mixture.
Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded Irish cheddar cheese and cover until melted, about 2-3 minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste.
Serve hot.