A Quick & Flavorful Chinese Stir Fry with Ground Beef and Cabbage
Craving something fast, easy, and super satisfying for dinner? This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is the perfect weeknight recipe you’ll want to keep in rotation. It takes less than 30 minutes to prep and cook, making it ideal for busy evenings. You’ll love the savory beef, crunchy cabbage, and umami-rich sauce that brings everything together.
Learn more about one-pan meals like this in our One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp chili paste (optional, for heat)
- 2 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Instructions
1. Prep Ingredients
Shred the cabbage, mince garlic and ginger, and chop green onions. Set everything aside. Stir-frying is quick, so having everything ready helps.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart as it browns, cooking for 5-7 minutes. Drain any extra fat.
3. Add Aromatics
Toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add Cabbage
Add the shredded cabbage and stir everything together. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
5. Make the Sauce
Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin, chili paste, and sugar in a bowl. Pour this sauce into the skillet, mixing everything to coat evenly.
6. Final Touches
Let everything cook for 2-3 more minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Serving Ideas
- Serve over white or brown rice for a full meal.
- Try it with rice noodles or cauliflower rice for variety.
- Pair with a light side dish like steamed broccoli or bok choy.
- Discover great ideas like our Baby Bok Choy stir fry.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Option: Add more chili paste or sliced fresh chilies.
- Vegetarian Version: Use firm tofu instead of beef.
- Low-Carb Friendly: Serve over cauliflower rice.
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add-Ins: Try mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers for color and nutrients.
Looking for inspiration? Try our colorful Grated Beet Carrot Salad as a healthy side.
Make Ahead & Storage
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 days | Store in airtight container |
| Freezer | 2 months | Let cool, freeze in container |
| Reheating | – | Reheat in pan or microwave with a splash of water or oil |
Don’t miss our prep-friendly dishes like Garlic Steak Bites and Potatoes for future meals.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground pork instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground pork adds a unique flavor twist.
2. How do I keep the dish from getting greasy?
Drain the fat after browning the beef.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Swap beef with tofu and adjust sauces to plant-based versions.
4. What cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is ideal. Napa cabbage is also great.
5. How do I make it spicier?
Add chili flakes, fresh chilies, or more chili paste.
6. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely. Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just don’t overcrowd the pan.
8. Is it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
9. Is it low-carb?
Yes. Serve with cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb.
10. Can I prep ahead?
Yes. Prepare the ingredients and sauce ahead of time for a faster stir fry.
Conclusion
This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is everything you want in a weeknight meal—quick, tasty, and wholesome. You get juicy beef, crunchy cabbage, and bold flavors all in one pan. Whether you serve it over rice or keep it low-carb, it’s bound to be a hit at your table.
Check out our popular Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower for another delicious and healthy dinner option!