If there’s one recipe I find myself returning to on busy weeknights, it’s the Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe. With its golden, savory beef, colorful crisp-tender veggies, and a punchy, umami-rich sauce, every bite bursts with flavor and comfort. It’s nourishing yet light, wildly adaptable, and comes together in just about 30 minutes—making it the kind of dish you’ll want to put on repeat for both weeknight dinners and meal-prep lunches. Whether you’re new to stir frying or already in love with speedy skillet meals, this one is a total keeper!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple yet delicious, thanks to fresh vegetables and savory sauce staples that work together in harmony. Each ingredient here plays a special role, bringing flavor, texture, or visual appeal to the Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe.
- Ground beef (1 pound, 85% lean): The heart of the dish, bringing savory, juicy depth and plenty of protein.
- Green cabbage (1 small, shredded): Adds crunch and sweetness, soaks up all that tasty sauce—totally crave-worthy!
- Carrots (2 medium, julienned): Bring color, subtle sweetness, and an appealing crispness to each forkful.
- Onion (1 small, thinly sliced): Melts right in for a mellow, aromatic base that ties all the flavors together.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Delivers big, bold flavor—essential for an authentic stir fry.
- Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): Infuses spicy warmth and freshness; don’t skip it for that signature zing.
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): The perfect salty and savory boost; use tamari for a gluten-free option!
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Lends deep umami richness that gives this dish restaurant-quality depth.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a nutty aroma and finishing flavor that truly elevates the stir fry.
- Rice vinegar (1 teaspoon): Just a touch brightens all the flavors without overpowering them.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Sprinkle in for a gentle, slow-building heat if you enjoy a kick.
- Green onions (2, chopped): Fresh and vibrant, they make a perfect garnish and add a pop of color.
- Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon): For garnish—tiny seeds, big flavor and crunch on top!
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Ensures every component cooks evenly and achieves the perfect, glossy stir fry texture.
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula, searing until every bit is browned and deeply savory, about 5 minutes. If there’s extra fat, take a moment to drain it for the perfect balanced base—this keeps the Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe from turning greasy.
Step 2: Stir Fry the Aromatics
Stir in the thinly sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for about 2 minutes, letting the savory aroma fill your kitchen. This step gives your entire dish a mouthwatering foundation that tastes as inviting as it smells!
Step 3: Toss in the Veggies
Add all that shredded cabbage and julienned carrots right into the pan. Toss everything together, making sure the veggies get some direct heat and the flavors blend. Let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes; aim for cabbage that’s softened but still slightly crunchy and carrots that maintain their pop of color and texture.
Step 4: Make and Add the Sauce
While the veggies do their thing, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Pour this irresistible mixture into your skillet, stirring until everything is beautifully coated and the sauce clings to every bite. Let it heat through for another minute or two to pull all the flavors together.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Take the pan off the heat and finish with a shower of chopped green onions and sesame seeds. This step adds freshness and crunch—a final flourish that makes your Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe look (and taste!) like a takeout favorite right at home.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Top your stir fry with an extra handful of green onions and a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds for a classic finish. If you want extra crunch, a few chopped peanuts or crispy fried shallots make an inspired addition. Even a drizzle of chili oil can add a spicy, glossy sheen for those who crave a little more heat.
Side Dishes
This stir fry is hearty enough to be served solo, but it’s also fantastic over a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice. For a lighter approach, try spooning it over cauliflower rice or alongside some simple soba noodles. A side of pickled veggies or a crisp cucumber salad gives a refreshing contrast and rounds out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Take the Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe up a notch by wrapping it up in crisp lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb option. You could also pile the stir fry into steamed bao buns for a playful twist, or even roll leftovers into rice paper for easy, handheld spring rolls. Don’t be afraid to get creative—this recipe is super flexible!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the stir fry cool to room temperature before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Stored this way, it’ll keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch an absolute treat!
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze the Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe! Place cooled stir fry into freezer-friendly containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, label, and pop them in the freezer for up to two months. This makes for an easy, grab-and-go meal solution when your calendar is jam-packed.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your portion in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until hot. You can also use the microwave for convenience—just cover to prevent drying. If the stir fry looks a little dry after thawing, a splash of water or soy sauce will bring it right back to life.
FAQs
Can I swap out the ground beef for another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork all work beautifully in this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe. Each protein brings a unique twist, so feel free to use whatever you have on hand or what your family enjoys most.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe can be gluten-free with a simple swap: use tamari in place of regular soy sauce. Be sure to check the oyster sauce and other condiments for hidden gluten as well.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative. For the sauce, use a vegetarian oyster sauce (usually mushroom-based) to keep things flavorful and satisfying for everyone at the table.
What veggies can I add to mix things up?
Feel free to toss in sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, snap peas, or even baby corn for extra color, flavor, and nutrition. The Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is a fantastic fridge-clearing meal for leftover veggies.
Can I prepare the veggies ahead of time?
Yes! Shredding the cabbage, julienning carrots, and slicing the onion in advance shaves off precious dinner prep time. Store them together in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve tasted how quick, flavorful, and versatile the Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe can be, I have no doubt it’ll earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation. It’s comforting, colorful, and completely customizable—ideal for sharing with the people you love (or saving for yourself, no judgment!). Give it a go and let your kitchen fill with the mouthwatering scents of your new favorite stir fry!
Print
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry recipe that is perfect for a busy weeknight. This Asian-inspired dish is loaded with vegetables and savory seasonings, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Stir Fry:
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
Vegetables:
- 1 small green cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)
- 2 medium carrots, julienned
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped
Sauce and Seasonings:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Ground Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Cook the Vegetables: Stir in onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add cabbage and carrots, tossing well to combine. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the cabbage softens but still has some crunch.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes if using. Pour the sauce into the pan and stir until everything is coated and heated through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with rice or noodles if desired.
Notes
- For a lower-carb option, enjoy the stir fry on its own or with cauliflower rice.
- You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the beef.
- Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas for extra vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 870 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
