A Flavorful, One-Pan Dinner in 30 Minutes

This Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick, protein-packed dish that layers savory beef, crisp cabbage, and bold Asian flavors into one satisfying meal. With lean beef, minimal oil, and a tangy-sweet sauce, it’s a lighter take on classic stir fry comfort—perfect for busy cooks who still crave depth of flavor.

A weeknight staple that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!


Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • 🥩 Lean Beef Base: High in protein, low in fat—ideal for healthy yet hearty meals.
  • 🥬 Crispy Cabbage Crunch: Adds texture and fiber without weighing you down.
  • 🧄 Garlic-Ginger Pop: A fragrant foundation that boosts umami without extra calories.
  • ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—no fancy tools or techniques needed.
  • 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or lunch boxes.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

For the Stir Fry:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher – or substitute with ground turkey or tofu)
  • 1 small green cabbage , thinly sliced (or 4 cups pre-shredded cabbage)
  • 1 large carrot , julienned or shredded (optional – adds sweetness and color)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil (or olive oil for lighter version)
  • 2 cloves garlic , minced (or 1 tsp garlic paste)
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger , grated (or ½ tsp ground ginger)
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for milder taste)
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional – for sweetness and depth)
  • Salt and black pepper , to taste
  • Crushed red pepper flakes , to taste (optional – for heat)

For Serving (Optional):

  • 1–2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for crunch and nutty finish)
  • 2–3 green onions , chopped (for freshness and color)
  • Cooked brown rice, quinoa, or noodles (to soak up the sauce)

Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Add ground beef , breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.


Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in garlic and ginger , cooking for 1 minute until fragrant and golden.


Step 3: Stir Fry the Veggies

Add shredded cabbage and carrot to the pan.

Stir fry for 5–7 minutes , tossing occasionally, until cabbage softens slightly but retains a bit of crunch.


Step 4: Add the Sauces

Pour in:

  • Soy sauce
  • Rice vinegar
  • Hoisin sauce (if using)

Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.

Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.


Step 5: Garnish & Serve Warm

Transfer to a serving plate and top with:

  • Chopped green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds

Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or on its own for a low-carb option.

Each bite brings together:

  • Savory, seasoned beef pockets
  • Crisp, sweet cabbage and carrots
  • Bold, tangy soy-rice vinegar sauce
  • And that classic Asian-inspired finish

Tips for Success:

  • 🥢 Use Cold Hands: Helps crumble beef without sticking.
  • 🧈 Oil Hack: Use just enough oil to coat the pan—avoid greasy stir fries.
  • 🧁 Hoisin Swap: Substitute with honey or maple syrup for a lighter version.
  • 🥦 Add More Veggies: Stir in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra crunch.
  • ❄️ Meal Prep Magic: Keeps well refrigerated for 3–4 days—reheat with a splash of water or broth.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair with steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a full meal.
  • Great in lettuce wraps, over fried rice, or with a side of egg rolls.
  • Ideal with a cold drink like iced tea, beer, or lemon water.

Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 4 – approximate):

(With regular beef and soy sauce – per serving)

  • Calories: ~300 kcal
  • Protein: ~20g
  • Carbohydrates: ~15g
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Fiber: ~3g
  • Sugar: ~8g

This Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry proves that healthy meals don’t have to be boring to be satisfying. With its tender beef, crisp cabbage, and bold Asian flavors—it’s a must-cook for lovers of quick, comforting dishes.

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