Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a quick and hearty stir-fry. It’s the kind of meal that comes together in no time but still feels like a comforting, home-cooked dish. This beef and cabbage stir-fry is packed with savory flavors, crunchy vegetables, and tender beef, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner when you need something fast, filling, and flavorful.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

Growing up, stir-fries were a staple in my house. They were my mom’s go-to whenever we had odds and ends in the fridge that needed to be used up. Cabbage, in particular, was always around—affordable, versatile, and capable of soaking up flavors beautifully. This recipe takes that simple concept and turns it into a balanced meal, loaded with protein and fiber, while keeping things easy and delicious.

If you’re looking for a healthy, budget-friendly meal that delivers on taste and nutrition, this beef and cabbage stir-fry is exactly what you need. Plus, it’s a great way to use up that half-head of cabbage sitting in your fridge!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This meal comes together in 30 minutes or less, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with lean beef, fiber-rich cabbage, and a flavorful sauce.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that stretch your grocery budget.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (plus extra for garnish)

How to Make Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, slice the cabbage, julienne the carrot, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Having everything prepped and ready will make the cooking process much smoother.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it before moving on.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Push the beef to one side of the pan and add the sesame oil to the empty space. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This quick step enhances the flavors of the stir-fry.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Stir in the sliced cabbage and carrots. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage softens slightly but still has a bit of crunch.

Step 5: Make and Add the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, and sriracha. Pour the sauce over the beef and cabbage mixture, tossing everything together so the flavors meld. Let it cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the stir-fry. Give it one final toss, then serve hot. It’s perfect on its own or over a bed of rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Helpful Tips

• Cut the Cabbage Thinly: The thinner the slices, the quicker they cook and the better they soak up the flavors.
• Adjust the Heat Level: If you love spice, add more sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce the spice or omit it altogether.
• Use a Wok if You Have One: A wok distributes heat more evenly and makes stir-frying even easier.
• Make It Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, so feel free to make a big batch for meal prep.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-Fry
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
• Diet: Gluten-Free Option Available

Notes

• For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add an extra teaspoon of honey.
• You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more variety.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

(These values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even lamb.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

Can I freeze this stir-fry?

Yes! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with this?

This stir-fry is great on its own but pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or even noodles for a heartier meal.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can swap the beef for crumbled tofu or tempeh and use a little extra soy sauce for flavor.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry, you might enjoy these other quick and delicious stir-fry recipes:

• Egg Roll Stir Fry

Conclusion

This beef and cabbage stir-fry is proof that simple ingredients can come together to create something incredibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner. It’s quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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