I’ve made countless stir-fries in my kitchen, but this Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry holds a special spot in my heart for its unbeatable combination of flavor, speed, and simplicity. It’s one of those dishes that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. The sizzling aroma of garlic and ginger hitting the hot skillet instantly fills the kitchen with an irresistible warmth, while the vibrant green cabbage softens into something sweet and luscious next to the richly browned beef.
This recipe came together on a night when I had minimal time and even less motivation. I pulled out what I had on hand: some ground beef, a head of cabbage, and a few Asian pantry staples. A few sizzling minutes later, I was digging into a bowl of stir fry that tasted like it had taken hours. That’s the beauty of this meal — it transforms basic ingredients into a deeply satisfying dinner that hits all the right notes.
Whether you’re after a low-carb dinner, a quick weeknight meal, or something to break up your usual rotation, this stir fry delivers. It pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or even a bed of quinoa, and it adapts to whatever vegetables or spices you might have on hand. It’s become a frequent flyer in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will in yours too.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
This recipe is ideal for anyone who craves bold flavor without the fuss. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet satisfying enough to feel like a treat. The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic infuses every bite with a savory umami punch, while the tender cabbage adds just the right touch of sweetness and crunch.
It’s also incredibly budget-friendly and uses common pantry items. If you love cozy dinners like my Creamy Beef and Shells or Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta, you’ll definitely appreciate this fast and flavorful dish. Plus, the one-pan cleanup is always a win in my book.
Ingredients
Ground Beef: The main protein of this dish. It’s rich, hearty, and browns quickly, making it perfect for a stir fry.
Cabbage: Adds bulk and texture to the dish. When cooked, it becomes tender with a slight sweetness that balances the savory sauce.
Garlic and Ginger: These aromatics are essential for building a strong flavor base typical in Chinese cooking.
Soy Sauce: Delivers the deep umami flavor that ties everything together.
Sesame Oil: A small amount goes a long way, adding a signature nutty aroma to the dish.
Green Onions: Brighten the final dish with freshness and a mild bite.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a touch of heat if you like a little spice.
How to Make Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Cabbage
Add chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir to combine with the beef and aromatics. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but still has a bit of crunch.
Step 4: Add Seasonings
Pour in soy sauce and a drizzle of sesame oil. If using red pepper flakes, sprinkle them in now. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped green onions over the top. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
This stir fry is incredibly flexible. You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork depending on what you have. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat substitute.
Cabbage can be replaced with shredded Brussels sprouts, bok choy, or napa cabbage. Soy sauce alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos work just as well if you’re avoiding gluten or soy.
For a slightly sweet contrast, a spoonful of hoisin sauce or a drizzle of honey can be added with the soy sauce.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve this Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry over a warm bowl of jasmine or brown rice for a classic touch. It’s also delicious over rice noodles or tucked into lettuce wraps for a lighter, crunchy meal.
Pair it with a side of egg rolls or a simple cucumber salad for a complete takeout-style dinner at home. A cup of hot green tea or a chilled glass of white wine makes a lovely pairing.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This stir fry reheats well in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Avoid freezing if using cabbage, as it can become soggy once thawed. However, the beef mixture alone freezes well for up to 2 months.
FAQs
How do I make Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry low-carb?
Skip the rice and enjoy it on its own or serve over cauliflower rice. This makes it a great option for keto or low-carb diets.
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage in Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?
Absolutely. Pre-shredded cabbage saves time and works perfectly in this recipe.
What can I add for more vegetables in Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?
Bell peppers, shredded carrots, or snap peas are great additions that blend well with the flavors.
Can I make Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry ahead of time?
Yes, it’s meal-prep friendly. Just cook and store it in portions for quick weekday lunches or dinners.
How spicy is Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?
It’s mild unless you add red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Related Recipe You’ll Like
If you loved this Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry, you might want to try out my Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta or the ultra-cozy Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce. Both are satisfying and packed with flavor.
Save and Share This Recipe for Later
Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next dinner emergency! Pin it to your favorite weeknight meals board on Pinterest so you can come back to it anytime. You can also share it with friends and family via Facebook or a quick text. Trust me, they’ll thank you later when they’re wondering what to make with ground beef and cabbage!
Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
This Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a fast, flavorful, and fuss-free meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining rich, seasoned ground beef with tender, sweet cabbage and savory aromatics like garlic and ginger, this one-pan recipe is both comforting and healthy. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s low-carb, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable, making it ideal for anyone looking to whip up a satisfying dinner with minimal ingredients and maximum taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Drain excess fat if needed. Add garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped cabbage. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Add soy sauce and sesame oil. Mix well. Add red pepper flakes if using.
- Cook for 1-2 more minutes. Turn off heat and sprinkle with green onions.
- Serve hot over rice, noodles, or on its own.
Notes
- Use pre-shredded cabbage to save time.
- For a sweeter flavor, add 1 tsp of hoisin sauce.
- Can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Pairs well with rice noodles, lettuce wraps, or jasmine rice.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 342Total Fat: 21gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 101mgSodium: 767mgCarbohydrates: 4gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 32g
