Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re after a fast, flavor-packed dinner that’s brimming with both comfort and crunch, this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry will absolutely hit the spot! It comes together in under 30 minutes, is loaded with nourishing veggies, and has a crave-worthy savory sauce—making it the sort of weeknight miracle that puts takeout to shame.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is how it transforms humble ingredients into something bold and seriously delicious. Each element brings its own personality—colorful veggies for crunch, aromatics for depth, and the sweet-salty sauce that ties everything together.

• Coconut aminos: Adds a sweet, mellow umami flavor and keeps this dish gluten and soy-free. You can substitute with low-sodium soy sauce if you like.
• Rice vinegar: Lends brightness and a gentle tang that lifts the richness of the beef.
• Sesame oil: Just a touch gives the stir fry its unmistakable, nutty aroma.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Brings just enough heat to wake up your taste buds, but you can adjust for your spice-level preference.
• Avocado oil (or favorite cooking oil): This is your stir-fry workhorse—choose any neutral oil with a high smoke point.
• Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth as it softens in the pan.
• Ground beef: The protein star of the dish—leaner beef works best for a lighter finish, but any type will do.
• Garlic: Trust me, fresh garlic makes the world of difference—add as much as your heart desires!
• Ginger: Choose fresh ginger and grate it for a peppery, citrusy kick in every bite.
• Cabbage: The true hero—thinly sliced cabbage soaks up flavor as it wilts and adds irresistible crunch.
• Carrot: Vibrant and slightly sweet, carrots brighten up the pan while adding color and texture.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning everything to taste (don’t forget a final pinch before serving).
• Green onion & sesame seeds: Fresh, crunchy, and nutty—these garnishes take your stir fry to restaurant-quality.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is just how easy it is to adapt on the fly. Whether you’re tweaking for dietary needs, using up leftovers, or spicing things up, this is a recipe that adores creativity.

• Swap the protein: Try ground chicken, turkey, or pork instead of beef for something a little lighter or to suit your taste.
• Add extra veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms all take well to the flavors here and boost the veggie content.
• Go low-carb: Skip the carrot or add spiralized zucchini for even fewer carbs—delicious over cauliflower rice, too!
• Make it spicy: Double up on the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha for chili heat lovers.
• Vegetarian twist: Swap out the beef for crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground “meat”—it soaks up the sauce just as well.

How to Make Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Step 1: Whisk Up the Sauce

Start by simply mixing together the coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This sweet-tangy sauce is the backbone of our flavor—make sure to whisk until it’s well combined, then set aside so it’s ready to go when you need it!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat your oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and let it cook, stirring often, for about 5 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. Next, toss in the grated ginger and minced garlic, cooking for just a minute until your kitchen smells amazing and they release all their flavor.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add your ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Let it get nicely browned and cooked through—about 5 more minutes. Make sure all the little crumbles get a sear for the best texture and flavor.

Step 4: Stir Fry the Veggies & Finish

Next, add in the shredded cabbage, carrot, and pour your prepared sauce all over everything. Toss everything together so the sauce coats every nibble, and cook for about 5 minutes. The cabbage should wilt down but still keep a little bite—don’t overcook! Taste, season with salt and pepper, and get ready to serve.

Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy!

Spoon the Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry into bowls, then sprinkle over lots of fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds. The result: gorgeous color, awesome crunch, and that “wow!” factor every time.

How to Serve Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Garnishes

Top your Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry with plenty of sliced green onions and a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. For a hit of color and brightness, a few cilantro leaves, a lime wedge, or even a scattering of chopped peanuts are also lovely additions.

Side Dishes

This stir fry is irresistible on its own, but it’s a match made in heaven with fluffy steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb vibe. For even more veggies, add an easy cucumber salad, quick pickled radishes, or roasted broccoli alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling your stir fry into crisp lettuce cups for a fun handheld twist, or tuck it inside rice paper rolls for a meal-prep-friendly lunch. It’s also beautiful spooned into stylish bowls with garnishes sprinkled on top—restaurant vibes at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before storing, and keep the garnishes separate until ready to eat.

Freezing

This stir fry actually freezes really well! Pack it into freezer-safe containers (again, without the garnishes), and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut aminos if it looks dry. Microwaving works too—just cover loosely so everything heats evenly. Add your green onions and sesame seeds right before serving so they stay bright and crunchy!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to taste just how easy, hearty, and outrageously flavorful this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is! It’s warm, satisfying, and ready to flex with whatever’s in your fridge. Give it a try this week and let this speedy stir fry become a staple on your own busy nights—it truly is comfort food you can feel great about serving.

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