Ground Beef Cabbage Stir Fry

Name: Ground Beef Cabbage Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 cups chopped cabbage; 1 medium onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A quick and easy stir fry that combines savory ground beef with fresh cabbage for a wholesome meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T18:46:14.714Z

This Ground Beef Cabbage Stir Fry is a family favorite that combines nutritious cabbage with flavorful beef. It's quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to make in just 25 minutes
Packed with flavor and nutrients from fresh vegetables
Perfect for meal prep or easy weeknight dinners

      

A Wholesome Meal in Minutes

Stir fry dishes are renowned for their speed and simplicity, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights. This Ground Beef Cabbage Stir Fry is no exception, requiring just 25 minutes from start to finish. The convenience of this recipe allows you to whip up a nutritious dinner without sacrificing flavor or quality. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

The beauty of this stir fry lies in its versatility. While the recipe calls for ground beef and cabbage, feel free to incorporate other vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. This adaptability not only enhances the nutritional profile of your meal but also makes it a great way to reduce food waste by utilizing leftover produce.

Flavorful Ingredients Come Together

Ground beef is a rich source of protein, and it brings a savory depth to this stir fry. When combined with fresh vegetables like cabbage and onion, it offers a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors. The use of garlic and ginger further elevates the dish, adding aromatic notes that make each bite irresistible. Soy sauce and sesame oil introduce umami richness and a hint of nuttiness, rounding out the flavor profile beautifully.

Cabbage, often overlooked, is a powerhouse of nutrition. It is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Incorporating cabbage into your meals not only boosts the nutrient content but also adds a delightful crunch that complements the tender beef.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Ground Beef Cabbage Stir Fry is an excellent option for meal prepping. Its robust flavors hold up well in the refrigerator, allowing you to prepare a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Simply store it in airtight containers, and you’ll have quick, healthy lunches or dinners ready to go. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a convenient meal that's just as delicious on day two.

For those who like to customize their meals, consider preparing a base of quinoa or brown rice to serve alongside the stir fry. This adds an additional layer of nutrients and makes for a more filling dish. You can also vary the sauces or spices used to create different flavor profiles, ensuring that your meals remain exciting and satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious stir fry:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 cups chopped cabbage
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your stir fry:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables

Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Incorporate Cabbage

Stir in the chopped cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade Ground Beef Cabbage Stir Fry!

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your stir fry, make sure to cut your vegetables evenly. This ensures they cook at the same rate, providing a consistent texture throughout the dish. Additionally, don't overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than stir frying. If you're making a larger batch, consider cooking in batches to retain the ideal cooking conditions.

Using a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned wok can also enhance your stir frying experience. These types of cookware allow for better heat distribution and prevent ingredients from sticking, making it easier to achieve that perfect sear on your beef and vegetables.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to extend the shelf life, consider freezing the stir fry in portions. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to the freezer to prevent ice crystals from forming.

When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the skillet to help steam the vegetables and reintroduce moisture. This prevents the dish from drying out and maintains its fresh taste. Stir over medium heat until heated through, and enjoy your delicious meal all over again!

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving the Ground Beef Cabbage Stir Fry over a bed of rice or noodles. This not only enhances the dish's heartiness but also allows you to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can choose from white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

To add an extra touch of flavor, top your stir fry with sesame seeds or crushed peanuts. These toppings provide a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully. A squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of chili flakes can also add a refreshing or spicy kick, making your meal even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

→ How can I make it spicy?

Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or some sliced chili peppers while cooking for extra heat.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.