If you’re searching for a dinner that’s equal parts speedy, satisfying, and packed with flavor, the Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is destined to become your new best friend in the kitchen. You’ll love how tender shredded cabbage and carrots soak up that savory sauce, while hearty ground beef brings just the right richness. With every bite, you get a punch of fresh ginger and garlic, a touch of heat, and those irresistible crunchy edges. The best part? This stir fry takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a game changer for busy weeknights. Whether you like it spicy, crave some extra veggies, or want a meal-prep hero, you’ll find this recipe both flexible and utterly craveable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe lies in its simple ingredients, each playing a starring role for taste and texture. You don’t need anything fancy—just a handful of staples that, together, create something sensational. Let’s dive into what makes each item special.
- Olive oil: Starts things off with a clean, slightly fruity base that helps brown the beef and veggies without overpowering them.
- Ground beef: The juicy, savory heart of this recipe; makes every bite deeply satisfying. Opt for lean for less fat, or regular for extra richness.
- Garlic: Three cloves bring bold aroma and depth—freshly minced makes all the difference here!
- Fresh ginger: A tablespoon infuses the stir fry with bright, peppery warmth; mince it finely for the best burst of flavor.
- Green cabbage: Shredded cabbage softens into sweet, crunchy ribbons while soaking up all those mouthwatering sauces.
- Carrots: Add vibrant color and a gentle, natural sweetness that balances the savory notes perfectly.
- Soy sauce: This staple brings irresistible umami depth and ties everything together—choose low sodium if you like things lighter.
- Hoisin sauce: Delivers a hint of sweetness with a subtle, complex spice that gives the stir fry that “wow” factor.
- Rice vinegar: Sharp and tangy, it brightens the whole dish and keeps flavors lively.
- Sesame oil: Just a teaspoon adds nutty, toasted notes that make the entire kitchen smell amazing.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a little heat; add as much or as little as you like, or leave them out entirely for a gentler dish.
- Green onions: Sliced at the very end for a burst of color and a pop of fresh bite.
- Sesame seeds: The final sprinkle—nutty, pretty, and the perfect garnish for a stir fry finish.
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating up a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, then swirl in your olive oil. Once it shimmers, add your ground beef. Break the beef apart with a spoon as it cooks, letting it sizzle until deliciously browned and fully cooked—about 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, just drain it so your finished dish isn’t greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
With your beef nice and brown, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir everything together and let it cook for 30 seconds—just until those gorgeous aromas hit your nose. This step sets the foundation for the punchy character of your Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe.
Step 3: Add the Veggies
Now, pile in the shredded cabbage and carrots. Stir often, letting them mingle and soften while still keeping a bit of crunch; this takes about 4 to 6 minutes. You’ll notice the cabbage shrinking as it soaks up those fragrant flavors.
Step 4: Make and Add the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and (if you like a kick) red pepper flakes. Pour this luscious sauce over the beef and veggies, then toss everything to coat. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors really meld and the whole stir fry is piping hot.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove your skillet from the heat—now all that’s left is to sprinkle over those sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve your Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe straight from the pan, hot and fragrant, as is or over your favorite base like rice or noodles.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your stir fry with a shower of freshly sliced green onions and a scattering of sesame seeds. Both not only look stunning but add layers of flavor and texture. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of extra sesame oil or a squeeze of lime can also brighten things up.
Side Dishes
This dish is truly versatile, playing nicely with white rice, brown rice, or a tangle of rice noodles. For a low-carb spin, spoon it over cauliflower rice. A crisp cucumber salad or quick-steamed edamame on the side would complete the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe in lettuce cups for a fun, hands-on dinner. Or pile it into meal prep containers with quinoa for lunch all week. For a potluck, make a double batch and heap it onto a big platter—guests can scoop their own and you’ll look like a stir fry superstar.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer cooled stir fry to an airtight container and stash it in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors only improve as they mingle, making leftovers a lunch to look forward to. Just be sure to store any rice or noodles separately for best texture.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this stir fry! Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. It’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or zap it gently in the microwave when you need a meal in minutes.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the stir fry in a skillet over medium, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if it looks dry. Microwave works great too—just cover loosely to steam it gently. Stir halfway through for even heating and top with fresh green onions to revive that just-cooked taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork all work beautifully in this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe. You can even try crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground for a vegetarian-friendly twist.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, snap peas, or even baby spinach. This stir fry is meant to be flexible—just keep the quantities similar so everything cooks evenly.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Just swap the soy sauce and hoisin sauce for their gluten-free versions, readily available in most grocery stores now. Check ingredient labels to be certain, and you’re good to go!
Is it spicy?
It’s only as spicy as you make it. The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can add a little, a lot, or skip them altogether for a milder dish. If you want more heat, add a teaspoon of sriracha to the sauce.
Can I double this recipe for meal prep?
Definitely! The Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is perfect for batch cooking. Simply use a bigger skillet or cook in batches to avoid crowding the pan, then portion into containers for ready-to-go lunches and dinners.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the mood for something quick, bold, and genuinely satisfying, this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is truly worth a spot in your dinner rotation. Give it a try and let it surprise you—sometimes, the simplest meals turn out to be the most delicious!
Print
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender-crisp vegetables, savory beef, and a delicious Asian-inspired sauce come together in a satisfying one-pan meal.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Stir Fry:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
Vegetables:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
Sauce and Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Cook Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add ground beef, and cook until browned.
- Add Aromatics and Vegetables: Stir in garlic, ginger, cabbage, and carrots; cook until tender-crisp.
- Make Sauce and Finish: Whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Pour over the stir fry and cook briefly. Top with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice.
- Add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
