Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry

A Wholesome Weeknight Savior

When the days get hectic and time seems to fly, finding a recipe that’s both nutritious and effortless is like striking culinary gold. Enter the Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry—a dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes, packed with flavor, and satisfies even the hungriest appetites without compromising on wellness. Perfect for weeknights when you need a quick dinner or for prepping a batch of meals ahead of the week, this stir-fry blends lean protein, hearty cabbage, and savory seasoning into a balanced and comforting meal.

The inspiration for this recipe came from a desire to create a low-carb, budget-friendly meal that channels the umami of Asian-style stir-fries with simple ingredients found in most kitchens. It’s a nod to the humble roots of home-cooked meals and the joy of transforming basic pantry items into something crave-worthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to love about this ground beef cabbage stir-fry—here’s why it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation:

• Quick and easy: From start to finish, this dish comes together in about 25 minutes.

• One-pan meal: Fewer dishes to wash and more time to enjoy your evening.

• Nutritious and filling: High in protein and fiber, low in carbs.

• Customizable: Swap in different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.

• Meal-prep friendly: Stays fresh for days and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This stir-fry is made from simple, wholesome ingredients that combine to deliver big flavor:

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)

• 1 small head of green cabbage, thinly sliced

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for a kick)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish

Optional Add-ins:

• Shredded carrots for a touch of sweetness

• Mushrooms for extra umami

• Bell peppers for color and crunch

How to Make Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry

1. Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the sesame oil, then toss in the onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.

3. Cook the Cabbage

Add the sliced cabbage to the pan. Stir frequently and let it cook for about 5–8 minutes, or until it becomes tender but still slightly crisp.

4. Combine and Season

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir everything together, then pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha if using. Mix well to coat all the ingredients in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot as-is or over a bed of cauliflower rice, brown rice, or noodles depending on your dietary needs.

Tips for Success

• Slice cabbage thinly to ensure it cooks evenly and integrates well with the beef.

• Use fresh garlic and ginger for the most robust flavor.

• If you’re avoiding soy, opt for coconut aminos as a substitute.

• Want it spicier? Add more sriracha or a dash of red pepper flakes.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is not just delicious—it’s a nutrient powerhouse:

• High in protein: Ground beef delivers a solid source of protein to keep you full longer.

• Rich in fiber and antioxidants: Cabbage is low in calories but high in vitamin C, K, and gut-friendly fiber.

• Low-carb and keto-friendly: Ideal for those reducing their carbohydrate intake without sacrificing flavor.

• Balanced fats: Sesame oil adds healthy fats and an authentic stir-fry aroma.

Make It Your Own

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Try these variations to suit your taste or diet:

• Make it vegetarian: Use crumbled tofu or tempeh instead of beef.

• Add more greens: Stir in spinach, bok choy, or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.

• Try different proteins: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well.

• Flavor twist: Add a teaspoon of hoisin sauce or a splash of lime juice for a different profile.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Let the stir-fry cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from the freezer or thaw overnight in the fridge before warming.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.

What to Serve With It

This ground beef cabbage stir-fry is satisfying on its own, but here are a few serving ideas:

• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option

• Brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber

• Steamed jasmine rice for a more traditional pairing

• A fried egg on top for added richness

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

Absolutely. Pre-shredded coleslaw mix is a convenient shortcut and works well in this recipe.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently. The sriracha adds heat, but you can easily leave it out or adjust the amount to your preference.

How do I keep the cabbage from getting soggy?

Cook the cabbage just until it’s tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking and don’t cover the pan during cooking to prevent steaming.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a large enough skillet or work in batches. This recipe scales beautifully for meal prep or feeding a family.

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