Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious dinner that feels both comforting and fresh, this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is absolutely worth trying. I love how it balances savory ground beef with crisp, tender cabbage and vibrant veggies — it’s a satisfying meal that comes together faster than you’d expect. Whether you’re pressed for time or craving something healthy and hearty, this recipe fits perfectly.

What makes this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe so special for me is its adaptability and how those simple ingredients come alive with bold flavors from garlic, ginger, and a touch of soy sauce. Plus, it’s fantastic for busy weeknights when you want a one-pan meal that’s packed with veggies but still feels indulgent. You’ll appreciate how all those flavors meld with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe plays an important role in bringing freshness, flavor, and texture to your plate. I always make sure to use quality ground beef for richness and fresh vegetables for that satisfying crunch. Here’s a quick rundown with some tips to help you shop smart.

• Extra virgin olive oil: Great for sautéing with a subtle fruity flavor. You can swap for sesame oil if you want that nutty aroma.
• Lean ground beef: I choose 90/10 for a perfect balance of flavor and less grease.
• Minced ginger: Fresh if you can find it, but jarred minced works fine in a pinch.
• Garlic powder: Adds warmth without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic every time.
• Onion powder: Complements the garlic and heightens the savory notes.
• Ground black pepper: Freshly ground is best for a little kick.
• Brown sugar (optional): This helps balance the saltiness with a hint of sweetness.
• Soy sauce: I use low-sodium for control over salt, but regular works too.
• Apple cider vinegar: An unexpected twist that brightens the whole stir-fry.
• Green cabbage: Slice it thin so it cooks evenly and stays crisp-tender.
• Red bell pepper: Adds color and a touch of sweetness.
• Shredded carrots: For crunch and natural sweetness.
• Green onions: Stir them in last for that fresh onion zing.
• Sesame seeds: A simple garnish that adds nuttiness and texture.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is how easy it is to tweak according to what you have or what you’re craving. Don’t hesitate to make it your own—here are some ideas I’ve tried myself.

• Add heat: I sometimes stir in chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick that wakes up the whole dish.
• Swap the beef: Ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
• Use different veggies: Snow peas, mushrooms, or bean sprouts are great for mixing up textures.
• Make it gluten-free: Just use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Make it keto-friendly: Skip the brown sugar and add extra healthy fats like avocado oil or top with sliced avocado.

How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

Step 1: Sizzling the Beef Just Right

Start by heating half a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When it’s hot and shimmering, add your pound of lean ground beef. Now, here’s my tip: don’t crowd the pan. If you do, the meat steams instead of browns. Break it apart with a spatula and let it sizzle for about 5 minutes until it’s beautifully browned — no pink bits left. This brown crust adds so much flavor.

Step 2: Build Flavor with Spices

Once your beef is browned, sprinkle in the minced ginger, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and that optional brown sugar. Give it a good stir and cook for another 2 minutes so all those spices wake up and mingle with the meat. That little moment really layers in flavor — don’t skip or rush it!

Step 3: Veggies Meet Heat

Next, toss in your sliced green cabbage, red bell pepper, shredded carrots, and green onions. Stir everything together to coat with those meaty spices, then continue to stir-fry for 5 to 7 minutes. You want the vegetables to soften enough to be tender yet still have a satisfying crunch — like that perfect “just right” cooked texture. Keep the heat up but watch it closely to prevent burning.

Step 4: The Finishing Touch of Sauce

Whisk together your soy sauce and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl, then pour it over the skillet. Stir well to coat every bite. The vinegar adds a subtle tang that really brightens this dish. Let it all cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes — this finishes off the flavors perfectly without overcooking your veggies.

Step 5: Final Garnish and Serve

Once off the heat, sprinkle sesame seeds over your stir-fry for a lovely nutty crunch and pretty presentation. Then plate it up and get ready to enjoy something hearty yet fresh, packed with flavor and texture.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing my Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a handful of freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes I also add a drizzle of chili oil if I’m feeling adventurous. These easy garnishes make the dish look restaurant-worthy but don’t add extra prep hassle.

Side Dishes

Personally, I often serve this stir-fry with steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice to soak up the savory sauce. A simple side of steamed edamame or even an Asian cucumber salad pairs beautifully when I want to keep things light and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, I sometimes serve this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe inside lettuce cups for a handheld, low-carb option that’s perfect for lunches or casual dinners. You can also scoop it over warm noodles or use it as a filling for stuffed peppers if you want to impress guests with a creative presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I let leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container and storing in the fridge. This Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe keeps well for 3 to 4 days, which makes it a great meal prep option. When I’m in a rush, I just grab it from the fridge and reheat.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this stir-fry successfully on occasion — just portion it out into freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture. Just note that cabbage can get a little softer after freezing, but the flavors remain spot on.

Reheating

I like reheating leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep things moist. Microwave works fine too if you’re in a hurry. Stir occasionally until warmed through — this helps keep the veggies from getting mushy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe holds a special place in my weekly rotation because it’s such a no-fuss way to enjoy comfort food that’s fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. I hope you’ll give it a try on those busy nights when you want something quick but crave something a little different than the usual takeout. Trust me—once you make it your own with your favorite tweaks, it’ll become one of those go-to meals you love to recommend to friends over coffee.

Print