Looking for a dinner that’s fast, full of flavor, and won’t knock you off your low-carb track? This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage is a weeknight dream. It comes together in one pan, packs in a hearty serving of vegetables, and delivers on that sweet-and-savory takeout flavor you love—without the sugar overload.

The caramelized beef mingles with tender cabbage, all coated in a rich, garlicky Mongolian-inspired sauce. Whether you’re on keto or just watching your carbs, this dish is satisfying enough to serve as a full meal and simple enough to make on a busy evening.

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

This dish isn’t just about being low-carb; it’s about bold flavor, minimal cleanup, and fast prep. The sauce is crave-worthy with just the right balance of salty and sweet, while the cabbage adds volume and texture without extra carbs. It’s also budget-friendly and a great way to sneak in extra vegetables.

Plus, the leftovers are just as good the next day, making this perfect for meal prep.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For the best results, go with 80/20 ground beef. It has enough fat to keep the beef juicy and flavorful but not so much that it turns greasy. If you’re looking to reduce fat further, leaner ground beef will still work, especially if you use a little extra oil to keep things tender.

Ingredients for the Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage

This dish keeps it simple with a handful of staple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building flavor and texture.

Ground Beef provides the savory base and richness for the whole dish.

Green Cabbage offers crunch and bulks up the meal while keeping the carb count low.

Garlic adds that punchy depth and aroma essential to Mongolian-style flavors.

Ginger gives the sauce a bit of warmth and zing.

Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos brings the salty umami flavor.

Brown Sugar Substitute gives a touch of sweetness without spiking carbs.

Red Pepper Flakes add a subtle heat to balance the sweet and salty profile.

Sesame Oil finishes the dish with a toasty, nutty aroma.

Green Onions brighten the final result with a fresh pop of flavor.

Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage 2

How To Make the Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook until fully browned. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring often so it doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage

Toss in the sliced green cabbage and stir well. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still has some bite.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce (or coconut aminos), brown sugar substitute, and red pepper flakes. Pour the sauce over the beef and cabbage, stirring to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Simmer and Finish

Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld. Drizzle with sesame oil and stir in sliced green onions just before serving.

How to Serve and Store Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage

This recipe serves about four people generously, especially when enjoyed as a full meal on its own. It’s hearty, satisfying, and well-rounded thanks to the combo of protein and veggies.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so it’s even better the next day. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

You can also freeze portions for up to a month, making it a handy option for batch cooking.

What to Serve With Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage?

Cauliflower Fried Rice

A perfect low-carb pairing that soaks up the extra sauce beautifully.

Shirataki Noodles

For a takeout-style noodle fix without the carbs, these chewy noodles are a winner.

Spicy Cucumber Salad

Crisp, refreshing, and a great way to balance the warm spices of the beef.

Roasted Broccoli

A simple side that complements the umami flavors while adding more green to your plate.

Egg Drop Soup

Light and comforting, this soup makes a great starter for this main dish.

Steamed Bok Choy

Mild and earthy, bok choy adds variety and soaks up the savory sauce well.

Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Earthy, rich, and umami-packed, mushrooms pair beautifully with the caramelized beef.

Want More Low-Carb Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this low-carb twist, here are a few more crave-worthy recipes that hit the same comforting notes:

Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a rich and hearty comfort classic.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you want a fast creamy skillet dinner.
Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe with that nostalgic flavor in every bite.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a cheesy indulgent twist.
Mushroom Mozzarella Bake if you love gooey, melty low-carb meals.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add more heat or toss in some extra veggies? Did you go with coconut aminos or stick to soy sauce?

I always love hearing your twists and tips!

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