Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage : A Healthy 20-Minute Keto Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy weeknight meal, this low-carb Mongolian ground beef and cabbage is exactly what you need. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is loaded with savory-sweet Asian-inspired flavors and packed with wholesome ingredients like lean ground beef and fresh cabbage.

Perfect for anyone who loves cabbage recipes healthy, wants to explore more ground beef recipes for dinner, or is following a low carb keto recipes plan, this recipe is your answer to a satisfying, guilt-free dinner that doesn’t sacrifice taste.

Let’s dive into why this dish has become one of our favorite healthy ground beef recipes — and how you can make it tonight.

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Why You’ll Love This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this dish:

• Quick and easy: On the table in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Healthy and satisfying: High in protein, packed with fiber, and low in carbs.
• Keto-friendly: Ideal for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
• Delicious and flavorful: Sweet, salty, garlicky sauce coats every bite.

If you already enjoy making ground beef hash brown skillet or hearty cabbage fat-burning soup, this recipe will quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation of ground beef recipes healthy and low carb dinner options.

Cabbage Recipes Healthy and Delicious: Why Cabbage is Perfect for Low-Carb Meals

Cabbage is a powerhouse vegetable. It’s budget-friendly, versatile, and naturally low in carbs while providing plenty of fiber and vitamins. That’s why cabbage recipes healthy like this one are perfect when you want a hearty, filling meal without heavy starches.

In this dish, shredded cabbage takes on the sweet-and-savory sauce beautifully and becomes tender while still holding its texture — a perfect complement to the rich ground beef.

Healthy Ground Beef: A Staple in Ground Beef Recipes for Dinner

Lean ground beef is one of the most convenient proteins you can keep on hand. Not only is it affordable and versatile, but it also provides high-quality protein, iron, and essential vitamins.

When used in ground beef recipes for dinner, like this one, it creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent without derailing your healthy eating goals.

Ingredients for Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful beef recipes easy favorite:

• 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef (90% lean recommended)
• 1/2 head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar substitute (like monk fruit or erythritol)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need for Beef Recipes Easy and Quick

• Large skillet or wok
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl (optional)

Step-by-Step: How to Make This Low Carb Dinner in 20 Minutes

Cook the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5–6 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar substitute, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Combine with Cabbage

Push beef to the edges of the skillet and add the remaining sesame oil. Toss in the sliced cabbage and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until it starts to soften.

Add the Sauce

Pour the sauce over the beef and cabbage. Toss everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still crisp, and the sauce is slightly reduced.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Tips for Perfect Low Carb Keto Recipes Every Time

• Slice the cabbage thinly for quicker cooking and better texture.
• Use lean beef to keep it healthy and prevent excess grease.
• Adjust sweetness and spice levels to taste.
• Don’t overcook the cabbage — you want it tender but not mushy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Ground Beef Recipes Healthy

• Using high-fat ground beef — this can make the dish too greasy.
• Overcrowding the skillet — cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
• Forgetting to season — taste and adjust before serving.

Serving Suggestions: What to Serve With Your Low Carb Mongolian Beef and Cabbage

While this dish is satisfying on its own, you can also serve it with:

• A simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli.
• Cauliflower rice for extra texture without carbs.
• A fried or poached egg on top for a keto-friendly twist.

For other light and creative sides, try cucumber dill salad or spicy dilly beans.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

This dish can also be frozen — cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations on Cabbage Recipes for Different Tastes

• Add sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots for more veggies.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Sprinkle with crushed peanuts or cashews for crunch.
• Use napa cabbage instead of green cabbage for a slightly different texture.

These variations make it easy to incorporate this dish into your weekly low carb keto recipes rotation without getting bored.

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Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage FAQs

Is this recipe really keto-friendly?
Yes — the dish is naturally low in carbs, especially if you use a keto-friendly sweetener.

Can I use purple cabbage?
Absolutely — it will just add more color to your plate!

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?
You can substitute with apple cider vinegar or even white vinegar in a pinch.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action: Enjoy This Healthy Low Carb Dinner Tonight

This low-carb Mongolian ground beef and cabbage is a simple, quick, and incredibly flavorful dinner option you can feel good about serving. Perfect for anyone who loves cabbage recipes, is looking for healthy ground beef ideas, or just wants an easy low carb dinner the whole family will enjoy.

If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more healthy ground beef recipes and creative low carb keto recipes!

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