If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights, then look no further than this Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry. This delicious stir fry combines ground beef, crunchy cabbage, and savory sauces to create a satisfying meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty beef dinner or trying your hand at easy Chinese recipes, this dish checks all the boxes.
With its balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors, this cabbage stir fry is not only packed with nutrients but also incredibly versatile. It’s a fantastic beef recipe for dinner that can be served with rice, noodles, or even on its own for a lighter meal. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible!
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What Makes Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry So Irresistible
What makes ground beef & cabbage stir fry stand out is its simplicity and bold flavor profile. The ground beef provides a rich, savory base, while the cabbage adds a refreshing crunch that balances the dish perfectly. The Asian-inspired sauce with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger brings a depth of flavor that makes this dish truly special.
This stir fry is not only easy to make but also a healthier alternative to heavier stir-fries. With just a few Chinese cooking ingredients, you can have a flavorful meal on the table in no time. It’s a great option for anyone looking for beef recipes easy enough for a weeknight dinner but with the bold flavors of Chinese cooking.
Ingredients You Need for the Best Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious and nutritious cabbage stir fry:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
- 3 cups cabbage, shredded
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
These ingredients come together to create a stir fry that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. If you’re looking for a healthy beef recipe, this one fits the bill!
Essential Tools for Cooking Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry
To prepare this dish, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:
- Large skillet or wok (for stir frying)
- Spatula or wooden spoon (for stirring)
- Knife and chopping board (for chopping cabbage and slicing vegetables)
- Measuring spoons (for soy sauce and other seasonings)
These tools will help you make this dish with ease and in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry
Making ground beef & cabbage stir fry is incredibly simple and can be done in just a few steps. Here’s how to prepare this flavorful dish:
1. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the beef and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic and ginger become fragrant.
3. Add the Cabbage
Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and starts to caramelize slightly.
4. Add the Sauce
Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey (if using). Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve
Once everything is well combined and cooked through, serve the stir fry on its own, or pair it with rice or noodles for a more filling meal.
For another easy Asian-inspired dinner, try making Chinese ground beef & cabbage stir fry for a rich and flavorful meal.
How to Customize Your Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry with Toppings
While this dish is delicious as is, you can customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients:
- Add some heat: If you like a little spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or drizzle with Sriracha.
- Add nuts: For added crunch, top the stir fry with chopped peanuts or cashews.
- Vegetable variations: Add carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the stir fry for more flavor and texture.
If you’re looking for more cabbage recipes, try making this cabbage stir fry with garlic and ginger for a healthy and flavorful side dish.
Serving Ideas: How to Serve Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry Like a Pro
Here are some ideas for serving ground beef & cabbage stir fry:
- With rice: Serve the stir fry over a bed of steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option.
- With noodles: Toss the stir fry with some noodles for a more filling dish.
- With a side salad: Pair it with a refreshing Asian cucumber salad for a well-rounded meal.
For more dinners with beef, try pairing it with easy beef stir fry for a heartier, filling meal.
Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry
To make sure your ground beef & cabbage stir fry turns out perfect every time, here are some tips:
- Don’t overcook the cabbage: To preserve its crunch, avoid cooking the cabbage for too long. You want it to soften but still retain some texture.
- Use fresh ginger: Fresh ginger adds a wonderful depth of flavor that really elevates the stir fry.
- Customize the sauce: Adjust the sweetness and acidity by adding more honey or vinegar to suit your taste.
If you love beef dinner recipes, this ground beef stir fry is another easy recipe you can make in no time.
How to Store Leftovers from Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry
If you have leftovers from this delicious stir fry, here’s how to store and reheat:
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of soy sauce or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
To freeze, let the stir fry cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 1 month in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
What to Pair with Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry
To complete your meal, pair the stir fry with:
- Steamed rice or noodles for a more filling meal.
- Asian-inspired salad with a light sesame dressing.
- Spring rolls or dumplings for an added appetizer.
For a comforting and filling meal, try pairing this stir fry with garlic butter beef stir fry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry
Can I use a different protein?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in any additional vegetables you like, such as carrots, bell peppers, or snow peas.
How do I make this dish spicier?
For extra heat, add red pepper flakes, chili paste, or fresh chopped chilies to the stir fry.
Why Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry Is a Must-Try Easy Chinese Recipe
This ground beef & cabbage stir fry is the perfect blend of savory flavors, and it’s easy enough to make any night of the week. It’s a great way to incorporate beef and cabbage into your diet in a delicious, healthy way. Plus, it’s a customizable recipe that can fit various dietary needs and flavor preferences, making it ideal for any home cook.
For another beef stir fry option, try this easy stir fry recipe for a delicious dinner.
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Delicious Ground Beef Cabbage Stir Fry – A Quick and Flavorful Dinner
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Ground Beef Cabbage Stir Fry is the ultimate quick dinner recipe, combining savory ground beef, crisp cabbage, and a flavorful stir fry sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a healthy, satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer)
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced thinly
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (you can use green or napa cabbage)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional but adds great flavor)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for flavor and depth)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds, toasted (optional, for added texture)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic and ginger are fragrant.
- Add the cabbage: Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it starts to soften but still retains some crunch. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Combine and cook: Pour the sauce over the beef and cabbage mixture. Stir everything together, making sure the sauce coats the beef and vegetables evenly. Let the stir fry cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the stir fry and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce or a pinch of salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Serve the stir fry hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the cabbage: The cabbage should be tender but still have a bit of crunch. Stir-fry it for just a few minutes until it softens but doesn’t wilt completely.
- Use lean ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef (like 90% lean) to avoid excess grease in the stir fry. If you’re using fattier beef, make sure to drain the fat before continuing with the recipe.
- Adjust the sauce to taste: Depending on your preference, you can make the stir fry spicier by adding more red pepper flakes, or you can make it sweeter by increasing the sugar or adding a touch of honey.
- Don’t skip the sesame oil: Sesame oil adds a distinctive flavor to this stir fry. If you don’t have it on hand, you can use vegetable oil, but the flavor won’t be the same.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Stir Fry
- Method: Stir-fried
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Ground Beef Cabbage Stir Fry, Ground Beef Stir Fry, Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe, Quick Stir Fry Dinner, Healthy Beef Stir Fry
