Name: Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: – 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef; – 1 small head of cabbage, shredded; – 1 small onion, diced; – 2 cloves garlic, minced; – 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); – 1 tablespoon olive oil; – 1 teaspoon sesame oil; – 1 teaspoon ground ginger; – 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); – 1/2 teaspoon salt; – 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; – 1 medium carrot, julienned (optional); – 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); – Sesame seeds (for garnish)

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If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry is about to become your new go-to! It’s packed with lean protein, fiber-rich cabbage, and bold seasonings that come together in minutes. Plus, it’s one of those meals that tastes even better the next day—so don’t be surprised if you find yourself making a double batch. Trust me, you’ll want leftovers!

Why You’ll Love Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, meal prep, or a last-minute dinner solution.

Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients that won’t break the bank.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.

Customizable: Adjust the seasonings, swap the protein, or throw in extra veggies to make it your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry

Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s break it down:

Ground Beef: Lean ground beef adds rich, savory flavor and protein to keep you full. Swap with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Cabbage: The real MVP! Shredded cabbage softens while still keeping a slight crunch, making every bite satisfying.

Garlic: Because no stir-fry is complete without it. Adds a bold, aromatic kick.

Ginger: A touch of fresh ginger brightens the flavors and gives the dish that classic stir-fry taste.

Soy Sauce: Brings umami depth and enhances all the ingredients. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if needed.

Sesame Oil: Adds a hint of nutty richness that ties everything together.

Green Onions: A fresh, mild onion flavor that balances the savory notes.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional): If you love a little heat, sprinkle some in for a spicy kick.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. This ensures everything cooks quickly and evenly.

Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.

Sauté the Aromatics: Add minced garlic and ginger to the beef. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this step is where the magic starts.

Add the Cabbage: Toss in the shredded cabbage and stir well. It may look like a lot, but it will cook down beautifully.

Season to Perfection: Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing everything together until well coated. If using red pepper flakes, add them now for an extra kick.

Cook Until Tender: Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage softens but still has a slight crunch.

Final Touches: Stir in chopped green onions and remove from heat. The residual heat will bring out their fresh flavor.

Serve and Enjoy: Dish it up while warm, and enjoy every flavorful bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a heartier meal.
Try it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Wrap it in lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy alternative.
Pair with a side of roasted sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory balance.
Top with a fried egg for extra protein and richness.

Additional Tips

For extra flavor, add a splash of rice vinegar or a drizzle of sriracha before serving.
Make it low-carb by using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Want more veggies? Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.
Freeze for later: This dish freezes well! Just thaw and reheat for a quick meal.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or even ground chicken works great as a lighter alternative.

2. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely! Just be mindful of the soy sauce and use coconut aminos for a lower-carb option.

3. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Bell peppers, shredded carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini would all be delicious additions.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

5. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu or cooked lentils for a plant-based version.

6. What can I serve with this stir-fry?
Rice, noodles, lettuce wraps, or a side of roasted veggies all pair beautifully.

7. How can I make it spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes, sriracha, or a dash of chili paste for more heat.

8. Do I have to use sesame oil?
No, but it adds great flavor. You can substitute with olive oil if needed.

9. Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes! It stores and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prepping.

10. What’s the best way to reheat it?
Warm it up in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture. The microwave works too, but the cabbage might soften more.

Conclusion

This Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry is the kind of recipe that proves eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring. It’s fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—plus, it’s easy to make your own with different proteins and veggies. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just whipping up a quick dinner, this dish has your back. So grab a skillet and get cooking—you’re going to love this one!

Healthy Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry