Looking for a meal that’s packed with flavor, color, and a wonderful crunch—all ready in a snap? The Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is your new weeknight hero. With lean ground beef, crisp cabbage, vibrant carrots, and an irresistible, savory sauce, every bite is a perfect blend of textures and tastes. You won’t believe how quickly it comes together, yet it feels just a bit special with every mouthful. Whether you’re after a healthier takeout alternative or a satisfying family dinner, this easy stir fry covers all the bases.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is how simple and accessible the ingredients are. Each one brings something important to the mix—whether it’s color, crunch, freshness, or that signature umami flavor.
- Lean ground beef: Brings satisfying, hearty flavor and makes the dish protein-packed.
- Green cabbage (shredded): Adds crunch and soaks up all the delicious sauce—essential for that classic crisp texture.
- Carrot (julienned): Sweetness and color, plus an extra bit of crunch.
- Onion (sliced): Gently sweetens the dish as it cooks and brings depth to the stir fry.
- Garlic (minced): There’s no stir fry magic without a generous hit of garlic.
- Fresh ginger (grated): Adds a zesty, warming kick that pairs perfectly with the savory sauce.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: The salty, umami backbone of the sauce—less sodium, all the flavor.
- Hoisin sauce: Gives the stir fry a touch of sweet, smoky depth and glazes everything beautifully.
- Sesame oil: Just a drizzle infuses the whole dish with a rich, nutty aroma you’ll love.
- Rice vinegar: Brings brightness and tangy balance to the rich sauce.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a gentle heat, a pinch goes a long way.
- Green onions (sliced): Sprinkle on top for fresh flavor and a pretty pop of color.
- Sesame seeds (for garnish): Give the final dish extra texture and a little visual flair.
- Salt and black pepper: Add to taste and bring the flavors together at the very end.
How to Make Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and let it cook, breaking it apart into small crumbles as you go. You want it evenly browned and just a bit crispy at the edges—this builds tons of flavor. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off so your stir fry isn’t greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, stir in the sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for about two minutes, stirring often. This trio is like the flavor foundation of almost every great stir fry, and as soon as you catch that fragrant mix in the air, you’ll know you’re on the right track!
Step 3: Add Cabbage and Carrot
Toss in the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots. Give everything a good stir so the veggies mix thoroughly with the savory beef and aromatics. Cook them for five to six minutes—you’re aiming for tender veggies that still have that satisfying bite and a gorgeous, vibrant look.
Step 4: Whisk the Sauce
In a small bowl, quickly whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). This sauce ties the whole dish together with savory, sweet, and tangy notes—all blended into one simple mixture.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Pour the sauce into the pan and toss everything to coat—make sure every piece gets a glossy finish. Let it cook for another one to two minutes so the sauce thickens ever so slightly, and the flavors meld right into the beef and vegetables.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Take the skillet off the heat, then sprinkle with fresh green onions and sesame seeds. Serve the Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe piping hot and savor every bite of your stir fry success!
How to Serve Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is more than an afterthought here—it’s what brings the whole presentation to life. A generous sprinkle of sliced green onions and sesame seeds adds freshness, crunch, and visual appeal. If you like things spicy, add a little extra red pepper or a drizzle of chili oil right before serving.
Side Dishes
This stir fry is fantastic over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb spin. For a heartier meal, try it with brown jasmine rice, or even scoop it on top of chewy udon noodles. A simple cucumber salad or some steamed edamame would make wonderful, cooling counterparts to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Serve the Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe in lettuce wraps for a handheld, party-ready version. You can also fill rice paper rolls with leftovers for a quick lunch, or serve it family-style on a big platter alongside extra veggies and sauces so everyone can load up their plates just how they like.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any stir fry left, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, and the flavors deepen overnight—sometimes tasting even better the next day!
Freezing
This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe freezes fantastically! Just portion cooled stir fry into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for a quick meal, just thaw it overnight in the fridge or gently reheat straight from frozen.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also microwave it in a pinch. Splash in a spoonful of water or a tad more soy sauce if needed to bring back that just-cooked freshness.
FAQs
Can I substitute other proteins for beef?
Absolutely! This recipe works brilliantly with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so your protein is fully cooked through.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Simply swap out the soy sauce for tamari, and double-check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free. Every other ingredient in the Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy adjustment.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, go wild with veggies! Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, snap peas, or even zucchini. Just adjust the cooking time so everything is cooked but still has some crispness to keep that signature stir fry texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
The basic version is quite mild, with just a hint of heat from the optional red pepper flakes. If you love heat, add more flakes or a splash of sriracha to crank it up.
What’s the best way to shred cabbage?
You can use a sharp knife to thinly slice the cabbage or grab a mandoline for perfectly even shreds. Bagged pre-shredded coleslaw mix is also a lifesaver when you’re short on time!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving big flavors, fast, this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is about to become your go-to. It’s nourishing, incredibly simple, and endlessly adaptable to whatever you have on hand. Give it a try and watch it earn a spot in your regular meal rotation—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
Print
Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry recipe is a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender ground beef, crunchy cabbage, and savory Asian flavors come together in a satisfying stir-fry that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1/2 medium onion, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Cook the beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add aromatics: Cook onion, garlic, and ginger for 2 minutes.
- Stir in vegetables: Add cabbage and carrots, cook until tender-crisp.
- Make the sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, hoisin, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
- Combine: Pour sauce over the stir fry, cook for a few more minutes.
- Finish and serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving hot.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or cauliflower rice.
- For a lighter version, try ground turkey or chicken.
- Feel free to add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or snap peas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
