This Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful one-pan meal made with seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and savory Asian-inspired seasonings. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, and low-carb dinners.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a simple, budget-friendly meal that transforms everyday ingredients into a satisfying dinner. Lean ground beef is cooked with fresh cabbage, garlic, ginger, and a savory sauce, creating a dish that’s packed with flavor while remaining light and nutritious.
This versatile recipe is ideal for busy weeknights because it comes together in a single skillet and requires minimal prep. Serve it on its own for a low-carb option or over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Made in one pan
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- High in protein
- Naturally low in carbs
- Great for meal prep
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry
- 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
- 6 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
- 1 medium carrot, julienned (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar or honey
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Garnishes
- Sesame seeds
- Additional green onions
- Sriracha
- Fresh cilantro
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Small mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Sesame oil
- Brown sugar or honey
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (if using)
Set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Cook until browned and no longer pink.
Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Add the onion to the skillet.
Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and ginger.
Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Add:
- Sliced cabbage
- Carrot (if using)
Stir well to combine.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage becomes tender but still slightly crisp.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and cabbage mixture.
Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce is absorbed and everything is heated through.
Step 6: Finish the Stir Fry
Add the sliced green onions.
Stir and cook for 1 minute.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer to serving bowls.
Garnish with sesame seeds, extra green onions, or a drizzle of sriracha if desired.
Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This stir fry is delicious served with:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Brown rice
- Cauliflower rice
- Rice noodles
- Quinoa
- Asian cucumber salad
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze
Freeze for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat
Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
Tips for Success
- Use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook cabbage until just tender to maintain texture.
- Fresh ginger provides the best flavor.
- Drain excess fat from the beef if needed.
- Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra vegetables.
- Double the batch for meal prep.
Variations
Spicy Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Add extra red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce.
Keto Version
Omit the brown sugar and use a keto-friendly sweetener.
Ground Turkey and Cabbage Stir Fry
Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Teriyaki Beef and Cabbage
Substitute teriyaki sauce for the soy sauce mixture for a sweeter flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use red cabbage?
Yes. Red cabbage works well and adds vibrant color, though the texture may be slightly firmer.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes. When served on its own or with cauliflower rice, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates.
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely. The flavors develop even more after a day in the refrigerator.
What other vegetables can I add?
Bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, and snow peas are all excellent additions.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a fast, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy evenings. Combining tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a simple yet delicious sauce, this one-pan recipe delivers plenty of flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, a meal-prep favorite, or a budget-friendly family meal, this stir fry is sure to become a regular part of your recipe rotation.