Name: Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced; 2 medium carrots, julienned; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 green onions, sliced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish; Salt and black pepper to taste

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If there’s one dish I reach for on a busy weeknight, it’s Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry. It combines the savory depth of ground beef with the vibrant crunch of cabbage and carrots, tossed together in a garlicky, ginger-kissed sauce that will make your tastebuds dance. This recipe is the epitome of comfort food without heaviness—bursting with flavor, colorful veggies, and ready in half an hour. Whether you’re new to stir-fries or an old pro looking for a simpler recipe, this one never disappoints.

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly items to bring Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry to life. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, bringing flavor, texture, and that signature umami punch you’ll crave again and again. Here’s how they work their magic:

Ground beef: The star protein—juicy, hearty, and perfect for soaking up all those bold flavors.
Olive oil: Gives the stir-fry a touch of richness and keeps everything cooking smoothly.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth as it caramelizes alongside the beef.
Garlic: Brings irresistible aroma and that classic savory bite to every forkful.
Green cabbage: The backbone of the stir-fry—crunchy, slightly sweet, and wonderfully filling.
Carrots: A burst of color and subtle sweetness, balancing the savory elements beautifully.
Low-sodium soy sauce: The base seasoning, infusing the dish with delicious saltiness without overpowering it.
Oyster sauce (optional): For those who love extra umami, this adds depth and a touch of richness.
Rice vinegar: Brightens it all up with a gentle tangy note—don’t skip this one!
Sesame oil: Just a drizzle at the end lends unmistakable, toasty warmth.
Ground ginger: Brings a gentle warmth and a little zip.
Red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a little heat, these add the perfect kick.
Green onions: Fresh and vibrant, they’re the perfect topper for color and crunch.
Sesame seeds: Just a sprinkle for garnish makes it look (and taste) special.
Salt and black pepper: Finish to taste—essential for any stir-fry mastery.

How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a big skillet or wok over medium-high heat—it’s important to get the pan nice and hot. Add your ground beef and break it apart with a sturdy spoon. Let it cook until it’s beautifully browned, about 5 or 6 minutes. If there’s extra fat, go ahead and drain it off for a lighter stir-fry.

Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic

Toss in the chopped onion and garlic right into the pan. The aroma will practically announce dinner’s on its way! Cook for about two minutes, just until everything’s soft and fragrant but not browned. This lays down a savory base for your Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry.

Step 3: Stir in Vegetables

Add your beautifully sliced cabbage and julienned carrots to the pan. Stir everything together, turning gently with tongs or a spatula. Let the mixture cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the vegetables are nicely tender but still have a satisfying crunch. This stage is where your stir-fry really comes to life!

Step 4: Add Sauces and Spices

Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce if you’re using it, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Sprinkle in the ground ginger, red pepper flakes, and season to taste with salt and black pepper. Mix well so that every morsel gets hugged by that savory, tangy sauce. Cook another 2 to 3 minutes, just until everything is steamy, glossy, and mingling together beautifully.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Take the skillet off the heat, then scatter sliced green onions and a generous handful of sesame seeds over the top. Give it all a gentle toss. Now your Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is ready to enjoy—straight from the pan to your plate.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Garnishes

When it comes to finishing this dish, a handful of green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds is pure magic. They add a bright crunch, a little pop of flavor, and turn your dinner into something worthy of a celebration. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of chili oil can really wow spicy food lovers.

Side Dishes

While Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is hearty enough to stand on its own, consider serving it with steamed jasmine rice, fluffy cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist, or chewy rice noodles if you want a full Asian-inspired feast. Sides like quick-pickled cucumbers or miso soup make it feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond bowls! Pile your stir-fry into crisp Romaine lettuce cups for a hands-on dinner, or tuck it into a wrap or pita for a portable, fusion-style lunch. You can even serve generous scoops over a baked sweet potato for a cozy, colorful weeknight meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry stores like a dream! Simply let leftovers cool, then seal them in an airtight container. Refrigerate and enjoy within 3 to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making the next day’s lunch just as irresistible as dinner.

Freezing

Want to stash some away for later? Go ahead—this stir-fry freezes wonderfully. Portion cooled stir-fry into freezer-safe containers, label them, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.

Reheating

For best texture, reheat your Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, just until steaming. You can also microwave it, but use a lower power setting to avoid overcooking the veggies. Add a splash of water if needed to refresh the sauce.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, pork, or even crumbled tofu make great alternatives. Each brings a slightly different texture and flavor, letting you mix things up without losing that stir-fry spirit.

Is this recipe spicy?

The base recipe is mild, but adding red pepper flakes gives it a gentle, customizable kick. If you love more heat, feel free to toss in extra flakes or a drizzle of your favorite chili sauce.

How do I cut cabbage for the best texture?

Thinly slicing the cabbage ensures it cooks quickly while retaining some crisp-tender bite. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline for even shreds, which look gorgeous and taste delicious in every forkful.

Can I make Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry ahead of time?

Definitely! This dish is ideal for meal prep—the flavors develop even more after a night in the fridge. Just store it as directed and reheat portions as needed. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeks.

Is this stir-fry low-carb and gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally low-carb, especially if you skip the rice or opt for cauliflower rice. For a gluten-free version, be sure to use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a quick, comforting dinner that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a must-try. It’s easy to customize, guaranteed to satisfy, and sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation—so fire up that skillet and let dinner shine!

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

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4.7 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender ground beef with crisp vegetables in a savory Asian-inspired sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Stir-Fry:

1 pound ground beef
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced
2 medium carrots, julienned

Sauce and Seasonings:

1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish:

2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Heat Skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Cook Beef: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Aromatics: Add onion and garlic, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in Vegetables: Add cabbage and carrots, cooking for 6–8 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Make Sauce: Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for 2–3 minutes until everything is coated and heated through.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.