Name: Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 4 cups chopped green cabbage; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tsp sesame oil; 2 scallions, chopped; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

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This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is the ultimate quick and delicious weeknight meal. With tender, succulent ground beef and crunchy cabbage enveloped in a savory soy-based sauce, this dish is not only easy to make but also visually appealing. Perfect for customizing with ingredients you have on hand, it’s a great option when you’re short on time but still craving something flavorful and satisfying.

Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this stir-fry is the perfect weeknight meal.
Customizable: You can easily swap the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even tofu to suit your dietary preferences.
Healthy and flavorful: With lean ground beef, cabbage, and a savory sauce, this dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it both tasty and nutritious.
One-pan meal: This dish is cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Great for meal prep: It stores well in the fridge for up to three days, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb lean ground beef
4 cups chopped green cabbage
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
2 scallions, chopped
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the cabbage into thin strips, and mince the garlic and ginger. Set them aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef until no pink remains, breaking it up as it cooks.

3. Sauté Garlic and Ginger

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.

4. Add Cabbage and Sauce

Stir in the chopped cabbage, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still has a bit of crunch.

5. Finish the Stir-Fry

Toss in the chopped scallions and drizzle sesame oil over the top. Stir to combine and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Lighter option: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner dish.
Extra crunch and nutrition: Add bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms to the stir-fry for extra color, crunch, and vitamins.
Low-sodium option: Use a low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the salt content if desired.
Spicy kick: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level, or add a splash of chili sauce for extra heat.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein?

Yes! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture.

How can I make this stir-fry spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes, or drizzle a bit of chili garlic sauce or sriracha for extra heat.

Can I use frozen cabbage?

Fresh cabbage is preferred for its texture, but if you have frozen cabbage, you can use it as a substitute. Just be sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the stir-fry.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This stir-fry stores well in the fridge and is great for meal prep. Just make sure to reheat it on medium heat to prevent it from becoming too dry.

Conclusion

This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. With a quick cook time and the ability to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete and delicious meal!