There’s something incredibly satisfying about a one-pan meal that’s quick, packed with flavor, and leaves you feeling good. That’s exactly what this Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry brings to the table. Imagine tender beef infused with savory seasonings, perfectly wilted cabbage, and a hint of garlic sizzling in your kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that’s hearty yet light, comforting yet packed with nutrients.
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Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a meal-prep powerhouse, this dish has got you covered. Trust me, you’re going to love this!
Why You’ll Love Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry
Versatile:
Perfect for a quick dinner, meal prep, or even a low-carb lunch option. It pairs well with rice, cauliflower rice, or can be enjoyed on its own.
Budget-Friendly:
Made with simple, affordable ingredients that you likely already have on hand. No fancy extras—just wholesome, real food.
Quick and Easy:
This stir-fry comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Customizable:
Add extra veggies, adjust the seasoning, or toss in some spice for a little kick. This recipe is easily adaptable to your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing:
Even picky eaters will love this flavorful combination. Plus, it’s keto and low-carb friendly!
Ingredients in Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry
Here’s why this dish is so irresistible—it’s built on a handful of wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly.
Ground Beef:
The heart of the dish! It adds protein, richness, and a savory bite to every forkful. You can use lean beef for a lighter option.
Cabbage:
Crisp and slightly sweet, cabbage adds bulk and absorbs all the delicious flavors. Plus, it’s packed with fiber and nutrients.
Garlic & Onion:
The dynamic duo that builds the foundation of flavor. Sautéed to perfection, they bring a warm and aromatic depth to the dish.
Soy Sauce:
A splash of umami goodness that enhances the beef and cabbage with its salty, savory notes. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos.
Sesame Oil:
Adds a subtle nutty aroma that takes the stir-fry to the next level. Just a drizzle goes a long way!
Red Pepper Flakes:
For a little heat! You can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Ginger:
Bright and slightly spicy, ginger balances out the rich flavors with a touch of warmth.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. This is where the magic starts!
Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Add Seasonings:
Stir in the soy sauce, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Let the beef soak up those incredible flavors.
Toss in the Cabbage:
Add the cabbage to the pan and stir well. It might look like a lot at first, but it will cook down beautifully.
Cook Until Tender:
Let everything cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should be soft but still have a slight crunch.
Finishing Touches:
Drizzle in the sesame oil and give everything a final toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve and Enjoy:
Plate it up while it’s hot! Sprinkle with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Serve Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry
This dish is delicious on its own but can be paired with a variety of sides:
Fresh Salads:
Serve with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Rice or Cauliflower Rice:
For a heartier meal, serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice to soak up all the flavors.
Egg on Top:
A fried or soft-boiled egg on top makes this dish extra satisfying.
As a Wrap:
Spoon the stir-fry into lettuce cups for a fun, low-carb wrap option.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead:
Chop the veggies in advance to make cooking even faster.
Spice It Up:
Love bold flavors? Add a dash of sriracha or a splash of rice vinegar for an extra kick.
Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave.
Make It a Meal Prep Favorite:
This stir-fry keeps well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative.
Q2: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A2: Yes! Swap the beef for crumbled tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based option.
Q3: Can I freeze this stir-fry?
A3: Yes, but keep in mind that cabbage softens when frozen. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge.
Q4: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A4: Reheat in a pan over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.
Q5: Can I add other vegetables?
A5: Definitely! Try adding bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch.
Q6: Is this dish keto-friendly?
A6: Yes! This recipe is naturally low in carbs and perfect for a keto diet.
Q7: Can I double the recipe?
A7: Absolutely! Just use a larger pan to ensure even cooking.
Q8: What can I use instead of soy sauce?
A8: Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free alternatives.
Q9: How can I make it less spicy?
A9: Simply omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount to suit your taste.
Q10: What’s the best pan to use?
A10: A large skillet or wok works best for even cooking and easy stirring.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—an easy, flavorful, and satisfying Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s quick, packed with protein, and bursting with deliciousness in every bite. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding the family, or just treating yourself, this dish is a game-changer.
Print
Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with lean ground beef, crunchy cabbage, and a delicious umami-packed sauce, this dish is not only high in protein but also low in carbs, making it great for quick high-protein meals. Whether you’re looking for healthy recipes, simple high-protein meals, or a quick and easy dinner recipe with ground beef, this stir-fry is a must-try!
Ingredients
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1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
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1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced (or 6-8 cups shredded cabbage)
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon ginger, grated or finely chopped
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2 tablespoons soy sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free)
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1 teaspoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
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Thinly slice the cabbage and chop the onion, garlic, and ginger.
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In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, vinegar, and honey/maple syrup.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
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Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
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Season with salt and pepper. Add garlic, ginger, and onion, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Cabbage and Sauces:
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Add the cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine.
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Cook for 5-7 minutes until the cabbage softens but still has a slight crunch.
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Pour in the prepared sauce and toss to coat.
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Add red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 2-3 more minutes.
4. Serve:
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions.
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Serve as is or with steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Notes
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Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
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For a keto-friendly meal, omit the honey/maple syrup and serve with cauliflower rice.
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Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
How much is a serving size?