This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a delightful, quick meal that brings vibrant flavors to your table in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a versatile dish that can be served over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. The combination of ground beef and cabbage not only satisfies hunger but also provides a healthy dose of nutrients. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe stands out as a weeknight favorite.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Sauce
- For the Stir Fry
- How to Make Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
- Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
- Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
- Step 4: Add Vegetables and Sauce
- Step 5: Season and Serve
- How to Serve Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
- Over Rice
- Cauliflower Rice
- Noodles
- Lettuce Wraps
- With Side Salad
- Garnished with Green Onions
- How to Perfect Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
- Best Side Dishes for Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
- Reheating Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What can I serve with Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?
- How long does Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry take to make?
- Can I make Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry ahead of time?
- What variations can I try with Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make: This stir fry comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for hectic evenings.
- Full of flavor: The savory sauce and fresh ingredients create a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- Versatile options: Customize it with your favorite veggies or protein for a dish that’s uniquely yours.
- Healthy choice: Paleo and Whole30-friendly, this recipe incorporates wholesome ingredients without sacrificing taste.
- Easy clean-up: One skillet cooking means fewer dishes to wash after the meal!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation seamless and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Small mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Provides ample cooking space for even browning of the ground beef and quick stir-frying of vegetables.
- Small mixing bowl: Ideal for whisking together sauce ingredients without creating a mess.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for breaking up ground beef and stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
For the Stir Fry
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or preferred cooking oil)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced (about 8 cups)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Green onion slices and sesame seeds, for garnish
How to Make Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped onion:
* Cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and ginger:
* Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet:
* Break it up with a wooden spoon.
* Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Sauce
Stir in the shredded cabbage and carrots:
* Pour in the prepared sauce.
Cook while stirring until:
* The cabbage wilts and the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the stir fry:
* Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve warm:
* Garnish with green onion slices and sesame seeds. Enjoy your Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry!
How to Serve Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
This delicious stir fry is versatile and perfect for serving in various ways. Below are some great ideas to enhance your meal experience with Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry.
Over Rice
- Serve it over fluffy white rice for a classic pairing. The rice soaks up the savory sauce perfectly.
- Brown rice offers a nutty flavor and is a healthier option packed with fiber.
Cauliflower Rice
- For a low-carb alternative, use cauliflower rice. It adds a light texture while keeping the dish healthy.
- Simply sauté cauliflower rice in a pan for a few minutes before serving.
Noodles
- Pair it with udon or rice noodles for a heartier meal. The noodles will absorb all the delicious flavors of the stir fry.
- Cook noodles according to package instructions and toss them into the stir fry just before serving.
Lettuce Wraps
- For a fun twist, serve the mixture in crisp lettuce leaves as wraps. This makes for a fresh and crunchy bite.
- Use iceberg or butter lettuce for easy handling.
With Side Salad
- A simple side salad can brighten up your plate. Combine mixed greens with sesame dressing for an Asian touch.
- Add cucumbers and shredded carrots to complement the stir fry flavors.
Garnished with Green Onions
- Top your dish with extra green onions for added crunch and flavor. This garnish not only looks appealing but enhances taste too.
- Toasted sesame seeds can also add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

How to Perfect Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
To achieve the best results with your Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your stir fry vibrant and tasty.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches allows even cooking and prevents steaming, ensuring everything browns nicely.
- Adjust spice levels: Taste as you go! Modify red pepper flakes based on your heat preference to make it just right for you.
- Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps meld flavors together, improving overall taste.
- Experiment with proteins: Try using ground turkey or chicken if you want to switch things up while keeping it healthy.
- Add seasonal vegetables: Incorporating seasonal veggies not only adds nutrition but also keeps the dish exciting throughout the year.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Pairing sides with your Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious option that adds color and complements the stir fry’s flavors well.
- Fried Rice: Flavored fried rice can be an excellent accompaniment; consider adding peas, carrots, or egg for variety.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comfort and balances out the meal’s richness.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables make for a delightful appetizer that pairs nicely.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar complements the savory notes of the stir fry.
- Edamame: Steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt offer protein-rich bites that are easy to enjoy alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry, it’s essential to be aware of common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Overcooking the beef: This can lead to a dry texture. Make sure to cook the ground beef just until browned for the best flavor.
- Neglecting the vegetables: Skipping or undercooking the veggies can result in a less nutritious meal. Always ensure they are tender but still crisp for great texture.
- Ignoring seasoning balance: Not adjusting salt and pepper can make your dish bland. Taste while cooking and adjust as needed for optimal flavor.
- Using too high heat: Cooking on high heat can burn ingredients quickly. Stick to medium-high heat for even cooking without burning.
- Rushing the sauce preparation: Taking shortcuts with your sauce can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Whisk all ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the stir fry.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
- Use freezer-safe containers for long-term storage.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until fully warmed, typically around 2-3 minutes.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, which takes about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry that might help clarify your cooking needs.
What can I serve with Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?
You can serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a complete meal.
How long does Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry take to make?
The total time is about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I make Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer as outlined above.
What variations can I try with Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?
Feel free to add more veggies or swap out proteins like turkey or chicken for different flavors.
Final Thoughts
Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick, delicious meal that suits any busy schedule. Its flexibility allows you to customize with various vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful dish packed with flavor!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry, a quick and nutritious meal that comes together in just 25 minutes. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, featuring a satisfying blend of ground beef and fresh cabbage, all coated in a savory sauce. Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a versatile dinner option that can be customized to suit your tastes. With minimal cleanup required thanks to one-pan cooking, this recipe is destined to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 head of cabbage (about 8 cups), thinly sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Green onion slices and sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes to make the sauce.
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and ginger for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet; break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in sliced cabbage and carrots; pour in the prepared sauce. Cook while stirring until cabbage wilts and sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with green onion slices and sesame seeds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 448mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg