I absolutely love sharing this Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The combination of savory, slightly sweet soy sauce with fresh ginger and garlic makes every bite incredibly satisfying, while the tender ground beef and crisp cabbage add such delightful textures. This stir-fry always comes together quickly, which is a lifesaver when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a staple in my weeknight rotation and I think you’ll find it just as comforting and versatile as I do.
Why You'll Love This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
What makes this Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe stand out for me is its perfect balance of bold, savory flavors with fresh, crunchy vegetables. The garlic and ginger bring a bright, aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with the rich, caramelized ground beef. Meanwhile, the cabbage adds a satisfying crunch that keeps every mouthful exciting. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent and homey, yet it’s packed with simple, clean ingredients that come together effortlessly.
I also can’t overstate how easy this dish is to whip up. From start to finish, it takes about 25 minutes, and it all cooks in one pan. No complicated steps or fancy kitchen gadgets—just a skillet, a spatula, and some fresh ingredients. That means it’s not only perfect for busy weeknights, but it also feels like a quick treat. Plus, because it’s so customizable, I often add extra veggies or swap the beef for something else when I’m feeling adventurous. It’s a flexible, fail-safe recipe that’s definitely a keeper in my household.
This stir-fry is great for almost any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, entertaining friends who appreciate simple Asian-inspired flavors, or just craving a tasty, no-fuss meal on a hectic evening, this recipe fits the bill. It’s definitely one I recommend keeping in your recipe arsenal—you’ll find yourself turning to it more often than you expect!
Ingredients You'll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are wonderfully straightforward but absolutely essential for delivering the perfect mix of flavor, texture, and color. Each item plays a crucial role: the ground beef brings hearty richness, the cabbage adds crunch and freshness, while the garlic and ginger layer in aromatic warmth. The soy sauce and sesame oil provide that signature Asian taste we all love, and the green onions garnish adds a pop of brightness and color to finish.
TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below
- Lean ground beef: I prefer lean for less grease but all ground beef works—browning well develops rich flavor.
- Green cabbage: Thinly sliced to soften just enough but keep satisfying crunch.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds essential aromatic depth.
- Fresh ginger: Grated ginger brings a warm, zesty note that brightens the dish.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: It adds umami without overwhelming saltiness, allowing flavors to shine.
- Vegetable oil: A neutral oil that withstands high heat—perfect for stir-frying.
- Green onions: Chopped for garnish to add a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Sesame oil: Just a drizzle at the end brings that irresistible toasted aroma.
Directions
Step 1: First, prepare all your ingredients. Mince the garlic and grate the fresh ginger, then slice the green cabbage into thin strips. Having everything ready makes the cooking process so smooth.
Step 2: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer. This ensures the pan is hot enough to brown the meat properly.
Step 3: Add the ground beef to your hot skillet. Cook it for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned and completely cooked through. The browning creates amazing flavor foundation for the stir-fry.
Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté everything together for about a minute until you can smell their wonderful fragrance filling the kitchen.
Step 5: Toss in the sliced cabbage and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. You want it to soften slightly but still retain a bit of crunch—this contrast makes the dish exciting to eat.
Step 6: Pour in the soy sauce and stir well so all the ingredients get a nice coating. Let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
Step 7: Finally, drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry for that nutty finish and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy the full depth of flavors at their best!
Servings and Timing
This recipe generously serves 4 people, making it great for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. The prep time is about 10 minutes for chopping and grating, and the cook time is roughly 15 minutes. Altogether, it comes together in approximately 25 minutes, which means you can have a delicious, nutritious meal on the table before dinner feels rushed. There's no need for resting or cooling time, so it’s best enjoyed warm and fresh right from the pan.
How to Serve This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
When I serve this Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe, I like to keep things simple but thoughtfully paired. It’s fantastic alongside steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice to soak up all those delicious savory juices. If I’m in the mood for a lighter finish, a side of steamed or stir-fried green beans or bok choy complements the dish beautifully, adding more green and crunch.
Garnishing with extra chopped green onions adds a fresh burst of color and sharpness, and sometimes I sprinkle a few toasted sesame seeds on top for a subtle crunch and visual appeal. For presentation, I like to serve it in wide shallow bowls so the vibrant colors and textures really pop and everyone can easily scoop a balanced portion.
When it comes to beverages, I’m all about pairing this stir-fry with a cold, crisp beer or a chilled lightly sweetened iced green tea to balance the savory depth of the dish. It also pairs beautifully with a dry Riesling or a sparkling sake if you want a wine option. This meal shines at casual family dinners, weeknight meals, or even informal get-togethers where hearty, flavor-packed food is appreciated.
Variations
I love how this Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe can be customized to fit different tastes and dietary needs. For instance, you could swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner protein, or even use plant-based crumbles to make it vegetarian-friendly. Just adjust cooking times slightly if you use alternative proteins.
If you’re aiming for a gluten-free version, just make sure to use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute, which does not compromise the authentic flavor at all. For those who enjoy more heat, I sometimes add a dash of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil at the end, which adds an exciting kick without overpowering the dish.
Another variation I've tried is adding extra vegetables like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for more color and crunch. Stir-frying everything on a higher heat to create a slight char adds a smoky dimension that’s truly irresistible. The sesame oil drizzle at the end is non-negotiable in my book—it’s the final flavor note that rounds out every version beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, I recommend transferring them to an airtight container as soon as the stir-fry has cooled to room temperature. Stored properly in the refrigerator, the leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. Using glass containers works best to retain flavor and make reheating easier.
Freezing
This stir-fry can be frozen, but I prefer to freeze it without the green onions garnish to preserve freshness upon reheating. Place it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. Properly frozen, it will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warming on the stovetop over medium heat is my favorite method because it helps retain the texture of the cabbage and beef without turning the dish soggy. Stir occasionally to heat through evenly. Microwaving works too, but be sure to cover the dish and heat in short intervals to avoid drying out the meat. A quick final drizzle of sesame oil after reheating revives the aromatic flavor I adore.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While green cabbage works perfectly, you can substitute with Napa cabbage or even savoy cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just adjust cooking time to maintain desired crispness.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, the basic recipe is mild and balanced in flavor, focusing on savory and aromatic elements. However, you can easily add heat by incorporating chili flakes, fresh sliced chilies, or a splash of chili oil if you want a spicy kick.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with firm tofu, tempeh, or plant-based meat alternatives. Use a vegetarian soy sauce or tamari and omit the sesame oil if prefer. The technique remains the same and the result is just as delicious.
What’s the best way to slice the cabbage for this stir-fry?
I recommend slicing the cabbage into thin strips so it cooks quickly and still retains some crunch. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline helps achieve uniform slices which cook evenly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep many components in advance, like mincing garlic and ginger or slicing the cabbage. Cooked stir-fry is best enjoyed fresh, but it reheats wonderfully, so making it a day ahead for busy nights is totally doable.
Conclusion
I hope this Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe inspires you to bring some quick, flavorful comfort into your kitchen. It’s one of those dishes I go back to time and again because it’s so easy, satisfying, and simply delicious. Give it a try—you might find it becoming a favorite staple just like I did. Happy cooking!
Print
Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring savory ground beef combined with crunchy green cabbage and aromatic garlic and ginger. This easy stir-fry recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, bringing together wholesome ingredients with soy sauce and sesame oil for an authentic taste that the whole family will enjoy. Versatile and delicious, it can be customized with additional vegetables or proteins to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Garnish
- 3 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Mince the garlic and grate the fresh ginger. Slice the green cabbage into thin strips to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Heat Oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it starts to shimmer, indicating it is hot enough for cooking.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until nicely browned and fully cooked through with no pink remaining.
- Sauté Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant to infuse the beef with their flavors.
- Add Cabbage: Incorporate the sliced cabbage into the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens slightly but retains some crunch.
- Season: Pour in the soy sauce and mix well to coat all ingredients. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes allowing the flavors to blend and the cabbage to cook through.
- Finish with Sesame Oil and Garnish: Drizzle the teaspoon of sesame oil over the stir-fry and stir gently. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of chili garlic sauce when cooking the aromatics.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adding more vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can increase the nutritional value and flavor variety.
- Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy on its own for a low-carb meal.
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