Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

This is the dinner I make when the fridge looks empty and I want something healthy and fast. Ground beef gets browned with garlic and ginger, then tossed with crisp cabbage and carrots in a savory soy sesame sauce. It is ready in about 20 minutes, it is cheap, and it tastes like takeout.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 25 minutes
• Low carb and budget friendly
• One pan, easy cleanup
• Big savory garlic ginger flavor
• Great for meal prep

Recipe at a Glance

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 head green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Ingredient Notes

• Beef: 90% lean keeps it light. Ground turkey or chicken also work.
• Cabbage: green or napa cabbage, or a bagged coleslaw mix to save time.
• Soy sauce: use coconut aminos to make it gluten free.

How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

1. Brown the beef. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the beef, breaking it up, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add aromatics. Add the onion, garlic and ginger and cook 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetables. Add the cabbage and carrot and stir-fry 5 to 6 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Season. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil and chili flakes and toss everything well.
5. Finish. Taste and adjust, then top with green onions and sesame seeds.

Tips for Success

• Use the biggest pan you have so the cabbage fries instead of steaming.
• Do not overcook the cabbage, a little crunch is best.
• A splash of rice vinegar at the end brightens everything.

Variations

• Add a fried egg on top.
• Stir in 1 tbsp sriracha for heat.
• Serve over rice or cauliflower rice.

What to Serve and Storage

Serve as is, over rice or noodles, or in lettuce cups. Store in the fridge up to 4 days and reheat in a skillet.

FAQs

Can I use coleslaw mix?

Yes, it saves time and works perfectly.

Is this keto friendly?

Yes, it is naturally low in carbs.

Can I freeze it?

It freezes okay, but the cabbage softens. It is best fresh or refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is proof that simple ingredients can make a crave-worthy dinner. Fast, healthy and full of flavor.