Name: Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 4 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded; 1 small onion, thinly sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional); 2 green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

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If you love quick, delicious, and nourishing meals that don’t skimp on flavor, you’re about to fall hard for this Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry. This vibrant, Asian-inspired dish brings together lean ground beef, crisp cabbage, and a lively touch of ginger, garlic, and a glossy stir-fry sauce—all in under 30 minutes! Whether it’s a speedy weeknight dinner or meal-prep hero, this stir-fry strikes the perfect balance of satisfying protein, crunchy veggies, and just enough kick. It’s a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again whenever you crave something hearty yet refreshingly wholesome.

Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry comes from a handful of everyday ingredients that are transformed with the right seasonings. Each component plays its role, bringing color, texture, and big flavor to every bite—proof that a simple pantry can absolutely dazzle at dinnertime!

Lean Ground Beef: Brings hearty protein and classic savory depth; use extra-lean for a lighter dish.
Shredded Green Cabbage: Adds crunch and natural sweetness, and cooks down beautifully for tender bites.
Carrot (julienned or shredded): Pops of color and sweetness that brighten up the whole skillet.
Small Onion (thinly sliced): Adds mellow aromatic flavor that melds perfectly with the beef.
Garlic Cloves (minced): Essential for that punchy, irresistible stir-fry aroma; don’t skip it!
Fresh Ginger (grated): Delivers a zesty, slightly spicy lift that wakes up the whole dish.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: The salty-sweet backbone; opt for tamari if you need gluten-free.
Rice Vinegar: Gives a subtle tang that balances the richness of beef and sesame.
Sesame Oil: The nutty, toasty finish every stir-fry deserves.
Olive Oil: For sautéing; its mild flavor lets the other ingredients shine.
Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce (optional): Bring as much heat as your heart desires.
Green Onions (chopped): A bright, fresh garnish with a gentle bite.
Sesame Seeds (optional): Sprinkle over for a lovely, crunchy finish.
Salt and Pepper: Adjust at the very end for perfectly balanced flavors.

How to Make Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a big, sturdy skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, toss in the ground beef and use a wooden spoon to break it into crumbles as it cooks. Let it brown evenly for about 5 to 7 minutes—this is where the savory base of your Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry comes alive! If there’s extra fat, carefully drain it off for a lighter finished dish.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Now, toss in the sliced onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir them into the beef and let everything sauté together for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until your kitchen begins to smell absolutely irresistible and everything is softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Veggies

Stir in your cabbage and carrots, piling them high—they’ll wilt down soon enough! Sauté the mix for 5 to 6 minutes, tossing often, until the cabbage is tender-crisp but not mushy. This step is key for keeping the vibrant crunch that makes this stir-fry so satisfying.

Step 4: Season and Combine

Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil; add sriracha or chili garlic sauce now if you like a spicy note. Give everything a good toss to coat, then simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes to let the flavors find each other. Taste, then add salt and pepper as needed for that just-right seasoning.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Switch off the heat and sprinkle over the green onions and a shower of sesame seeds. These last finishing touches give your Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry extra style and crunch. Serve warm, straight from the skillet.

How to Serve Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry

Garnishes

A flourish of chopped green onions and a scatter of sesame seeds on top are more than just pretty—they add a pop of brightness and nutty contrast with each bite. For extra freshness, you could even add chopped cilantro or a twist of lime if you want to give your Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry a citrusy lift.

Side Dishes

While this stir-fry can easily stand alone as a main, it also pairs wonderfully with brown rice, steamed jasmine rice, or light and fluffy cauliflower rice for a low-carb boost. If you’re aiming for a bigger spread, serve it alongside simple miso soup or quick cucumber salad for a complete, well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon your Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry into lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held twist, or top it onto a bed of spiralized zucchini for fresh flair. For meal preppers, pack it in glass containers with a scoop of rice or quinoa on the side for grab-and-go lunches that are both colorful and crave-worthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep beautifully! Let the stir-fry cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making leftovers taste even more savory the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry in individual portions for easy, healthy meals on hectic days. Pop it in freezer-safe containers, and it will keep well for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat single servings in the microwave (covered, with a splash of water if needed) or quickly toss larger batches back in a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently until heated through, and you’re ready to enjoy that fresh-cooked taste all over again!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey and chicken are both brilliant stand-ins that lighten up the dish even more, while still soaking up all the saucy, gingery goodness. Just cook as directed, adding seasonings, and you’ll have a delicious, leaner take.

Is there a way to make this dish lower in carbs?

Simply omit the carrot or reduce the amount to lower the net carbs further, and serve with cauliflower rice for an ultra low-carb meal that’s just as fiber-rich and filling.

Can I make this Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry ahead for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is a meal prep superstar. Portion the cooled stir-fry into containers and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors meld wonderfully, making lunchtime or dinner a total breeze.

What if I want to make it spicier?

If you love some heat, don’t be shy with the sriracha or chili garlic sauce. Start with a teaspoon, then taste and add more as you like. If you’re cooking for a crowd, you can always serve extra hot sauce alongside, so everyone controls their own spice adventure.

How do I keep the cabbage from getting soggy?

The trick is to cook the cabbage at medium-high heat just until it’s tender-crisp. Stir often and keep it moving, so it wilts but still holds a little bite—no one likes limp cabbage, and it’s the crunchy texture that makes this stir-fry sing.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry has earned a permanent spot on my dinner rotation: it’s fast, filling, and full of flavor you can truly feel good about. Give it a try, and discover just how delicious simple, wholesome meals can be!

Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

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4.7 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry is a flavorful and nutritious dish that comes together quickly for a satisfying meal. Lean ground beef is stir-fried with crunchy cabbage, carrots, and a savory blend of Asian-inspired seasonings. Perfect for a low-carb, dairy-free, and gluten-free dinner option.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Stir-Fry:

1 pound lean ground beef
4 cups shredded green cabbage
1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
1 small onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional)
2 green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Heat Oil and Brown Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet or wok, cook ground beef until browned.
Sauté Aromatics: Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
Add Vegetables: Mix in cabbage and carrots, cook until tender-crisp.
Season and Finish: Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sriracha; adjust seasoning. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.