Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry (So Easy, So Good!)
If you’re like me, there are days when you just want something quick, filling, and made with ingredients you already have in your kitchen. That’s exactly how this ground beef and cabbage stir fry came into my life.
I had some ground beef sitting in the fridge, half a cabbage that needed to be used, and a craving for something savory but not boring.
I threw them together in a pan with a few simple seasonings, and to my surprise—it turned out amazing.
It’s hearty, healthy, budget-friendly, and honestly, you’ll be shocked at how good something this simple can taste. Let me walk you through it step by step.
Why You’ll Love Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
This dish has a lot going for it:
- Quick to make – You can have dinner ready in under 25 minutes.
- Budget-friendly – Uses basic ingredients you probably already have.
- Healthy and filling – Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.
- Customizable – You can spice it up, make it low-carb, or even add rice for a fuller meal.
It’s one of those recipes that feels like comfort food but doesn’t weigh you down.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part? You don’t need anything fancy. Here’s what I use:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ medium head of cabbage (thinly sliced)
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 2–3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (for flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 tsp ginger (fresh or ground)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional: red pepper flakes, green onions, or sesame seeds for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and slightly crispy. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add the Aromatics
Stir in garlic, onion, and ginger. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. This is where the flavor starts to build.
3. Add the Cabbage
Toss in the sliced cabbage. At first, it will look like too much, but trust me—it cooks down. Stir-fry for about 5–7 minutes until it softens but still has a little crunch.
4. Season It
Drizzle in soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything together so the cabbage and beef soak up that savory flavor. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or more soy sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Top with green onions or sesame seeds if you like. Eat it as is for a low-carb meal or serve it over rice or noodles for extra comfort.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some fun twists:
- Spicy kick – Add sriracha or red pepper flakes.
- Asian-inspired – Toss in a splash of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce.
- Low-carb version – Skip rice and serve with cauliflower rice.
- Extra veggies – Carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli fit right in.
Tips for the Best Stir Fry
- Slice the cabbage thin so it cooks evenly.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage—you want a little crunch.
- Use a big pan or wok so everything has room to cook without steaming.
- Brown the beef well for that rich, savory flavor.
Why This Recipe Works Every Time
It’s the balance—savory beef, crunchy cabbage, and that hint of soy and sesame. Nothing complicated, just simple flavors that come together perfectly. It’s a recipe that tastes like you spent way more time in the kitchen than you actually did.
FAQs About Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork works great in this recipe.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats really well in the microwave or skillet.
3. Can I freeze it?
Yes, but the cabbage will be softer when reheated. Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
4. What can I serve with it?
Rice, noodles, or even inside a tortilla wrap for a fun twist.
5. How do I make it gluten-free?
Just swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
6. Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely—replace beef with plant-based ground or tofu.
7. Is this recipe healthy?
Yes! It’s low-carb, high in protein, and packed with fiber from cabbage.
There you go—my easy, delicious ground beef and cabbage stir fry. It’s simple, satisfying, and one of those meals you’ll keep coming back to.
