Ground beef stir-fry recipe

Looking for a simple, nutritious, and budget-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor? Meet your dinner solution: Cabbage and Ground Beef Stir-Fry. This versatile dish ticks all the boxes for busy parents, budget-conscious cooks, and health enthusiasts. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and can easily be customized to suit your family’s tastes. Let’s jump into how you can make this delicious stir-fry in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this wholesome dish. Don’t worry if you’re missing something—substitutions are noted below!

1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
- Substitution: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives.
1/2 large cabbage, shredded (about 4 cups)
- Substitution: Napa cabbage or even bok choy works just as well.
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- Substitution: Shallots or scallions (green onions) can also be used.
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- Substitution: Tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a soy-free swap.
1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Substitution: Any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil works in a pinch.
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated)
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

Sesame seeds
Red chili flakes
Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley

Pro Tip: Have these ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. Stir-frying moves quickly, so it’s best to have everything within reach!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Transform these simple ingredients into a flavorful stir-fry with just a few easy steps.

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables and Meat

Start by shredding the cabbage into thin strips and slicing the onion into even slices for consistent cooking.
Mince the garlic finely, and if using fresh ginger, grate it using a microplane or fine grater to maximize its flavor.
If you’re using frozen meat, make sure to thaw it thoroughly in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which will help it brown better during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat about 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking before adding the meat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up into small crumbles with a wooden spoon or spatula. Let it brown evenly, which should take around 5–7 minutes.
While cooking, season the beef with salt, pepper, and ground ginger to enhance its flavor. Stir occasionally but avoid over-stirring so the meat can develop a nice sear.
Once the beef is fully cooked and no pink remains, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate or bowl. Leave the rendered fat in the pan—it will add flavor to your vegetables.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Reduce the heat slightly to medium-low and add 1–2 teaspoons of sesame oil to the same skillet. The sesame oil will provide a nutty, aromatic base for the vegetables.
Toss in the sliced onions and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and turn translucent. Be patient here, as the onions need time to develop their sweetness.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. Garlic burns quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on it.
Next, add the shredded cabbage. Cook the cabbage for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes tender but still retains a slight crunch. The cabbage will shrink as it cooks, releasing its natural moisture.

Step 4: Combine and Flavor

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, mixing it into the vegetables. Stir well to ensure the beef and vegetables are evenly combined.
Drizzle in soy sauce, starting with about 2 tablespoons, and stir to coat everything evenly. The soy sauce provides a savory, umami boost to the dish.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more soy sauce, salt, or pepper to suit your preference. If you like a bit of heat, you can also add a pinch of red chili flakes at this stage.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the mixture to serving bowls or a large platter.
For added flavor and presentation, top each serving with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, a pinch of red chili flakes, or some freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or scallions. These garnishes not only enhance the dish visually but also add extra layers of taste and texture.
Serve immediately while hot. This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or on its own for a lower-carb option. Enjoy your flavorful, wholesome meal!

Nutritional Information

This dish is not only tasty but also packed with essential nutrients.

Cabbage: Low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin C and K. These vitamins support a healthy immune system, strong bones, and proper blood clotting. Cabbage is also rich in antioxidants, which help combat inflammation and protect your body from harmful free radicals, making it an excellent choice for overall health and well-being.
Ground Beef: A rich source of high-quality protein, ground beef provides the building blocks your body needs for muscle growth and repair. It’s also an excellent source of iron, which is vital for oxygen transport in the blood, and B vitamins, including B12, which are crucial for energy production, brain health, and maintaining healthy red blood cells.
Low-Carb Option: Naturally grain-free and keto-friendly, this dish is ideal for anyone following a low-carb, gluten-free, or ketogenic diet. It’s a satisfying and nutrient-dense meal that fits perfectly into a wide variety of dietary lifestyles while keeping carb intake low without compromising flavor.
Balanced Meal: For a complete and well-rounded meal, pair this dish with a side of steamed rice, fluffy cauliflower rice, or protein-rich quinoa to add extra carbs and nutrients. Alternatively, enjoy it on its own as a light yet wholesome meal packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins to keep you nourished and energized.

Calories per serving (approx.): 290

Protein per serving (approx.): 20 g

Tips and Tricks

Make this stir-fry your own with these simple tips and variations.

Variations

Add More Veggies: Enhance the dish by including vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. These veggies not only add vibrant color but also boost the meal’s nutrition and texture. Stir-fry them alongside the cabbage for a balanced, nutrient-packed dish that’s as delicious as it is healthy.
Spice It Up: If you love bold flavors, add a kick of heat with chili-garlic paste, Sriracha, or red chili flakes. Adjust the spice level to your preference and watch as the dish transforms with a fiery twist that’s perfect for spice enthusiasts.
Boost the Umami: Elevate the depth of flavor by incorporating a splash of fish sauce or oyster sauce. These ingredients bring a rich, savory umami taste to the dish, making it even more satisfying and flavorful.

Time-Saving Hacks

Use Pre-Shredded Cabbage: Save valuable time by opting for pre-shredded cabbage or a coleslaw mix available at most grocery stores. This shortcut eliminates the need for slicing and dicing, making prep work a breeze.
Double the Recipe: Cooking extra portions of this dish is a smart move—it reheats wonderfully and is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in the fridge and enjoy a quick, delicious meal during busy weekdays without compromising on flavor or nutrition.
Cook in Bulk and Freeze: Prepare a large batch and freeze individual portions for later. This hack is ideal for busy schedules, ensuring you always have a convenient, homemade dinner option ready to defrost and enjoy when time is tight. Simply reheat and savor!

Serve and Impress

Pair this stir-fry with your favorite side dishes to make it a complete, satisfying meal.

Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles for a hearty plate.
For low-carb choices, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Complement with a fresh garden salad or miso soup for a rounded dining experience.

Try this Stress-Free Dish Today

The magic of Cabbage and Ground Beef Stir-Fry lies in its simplicity—minimal ingredients, bold flavors, and wholesome nutrition. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick family dinner, a budget cook aiming to stretch your grocery dollars, or someone seeking healthier meal options, this dish delivers on all fronts.

Ready to get cooking? Bookmark this recipe for your next meal, and share your creations with us! Use hashtag #CabbageStirFryLove so we can see how you’ve made this recipe your own.

Quick and Easy Cabbage and Ground Beef Stir-Fry Recipe