There is something incredibly satisfying about a quick, flavorful dinner that feels like it took hours to prepare, and this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe absolutely delivers on that promise. Picture tender, savory ground beef mingling perfectly with crisp-tender cabbage, vibrant red bell pepper, and sweet carrot strips, all brightened by fresh scallions and herbs. A splash of tamari sauce brings everything together with a delicate umami touch, making this dish a fantastic weeknight winner that’s both nourishing and bursting with texture and color. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe promises comfort, freshness, and irresistible flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting a wonderful Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is all about balancing simple, fresh ingredients that each contribute something wonderful—be it texture, flavor, or color. Let’s break down what you’ll need to make this dish shine.
- Red or green cabbage: Adds a lovely crunch and mild sweetness that softens just right when cooked.
- Red bell pepper: Provides a pop of vibrant color and a subtle fruity note to brighten the dish.
- Scallions: Sprinkle in a mild onion flavor and a fresh, green hue.
- Garlic cloves: Essential for layering in that aromatic punch that wakes up the whole stir-fry.
- Tamari sauce (or soy sauce/coconut aminos): Brings authentic savory depth and a salty balance to the mix.
- Olive oil: A healthy fat to sauté everything while adding a gentle richness.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: Finishes the dish with a fresh herbal brightness that makes every bite pop.
- Lean ground beef: The hearty protein star that anchors the dish with juicy, flavorful goodness.
- Carrot: Cuts into thin strips for a subtle sweetness and a crunchy contrast.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just the right amount of heat if you crave a little kick.
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Pan and Brown the Beef
Begin by warming olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once hot, add your lean ground beef along with one minced garlic clove for that first burst of aroma. Sauté the beef for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s beautifully browned. This step builds the savory foundation of your stir-fry, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Prepare Your Fresh Veggies
While the beef is cooking, chop your cabbage, slice the red bell pepper and scallions thinly, and cut the carrot into delicate strips. Prepping these ingredients ahead lets you keep the cooking flowing smoothly and ensures everything cooks evenly, preserving their delightful textures and colors.
Step 3: Add Cabbage, Carrot, and More Flavor
Next, toss the cabbage, carrot, crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice, another minced garlic clove, and the scallions into the skillet with the beef. Cover the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage starts to soften but still has a slight bite. This step is essential for achieving that satisfying crunch with a tender touch.
Step 4: Incorporate Bell Pepper and Tamari Sauce
Now add the sliced red bell pepper, the remaining garlic, and drizzle in your tamari sauce. Stir everything well and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender-crisp and soak up the savory sauce. This combination creates layers of flavor that keep every bite exciting and fresh.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Serve
Once cooked to perfection, remove the pan from the heat and gently mix in chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. These herbs add a burst of brightness that takes the dish over the top, making it feel vibrant and alive. Serve immediately to enjoy the full depth of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
A quick sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or cilantro right before serving not only amps up the color but also adds a refreshing herbal note. If you enjoy a little crunch, consider toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for an added texture contrast.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple steamed rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist, or even a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up every bit of sauce. A light cucumber salad or pickled veggies also add a crisp counterpoint that balances the savory richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving the stir-fry atop a bed of warm quinoa or inside butter lettuce cups for a fun and slightly lighter spin. You can even pack it into a pita or wrap for an easy and satisfying handheld meal when you’re on-the-go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of your Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When packed right, the flavors remain vibrant and the vegetables hold a nice texture without becoming soggy.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, freezing is a good option. Cool the stir-fry completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It should maintain its best quality for up to two months. Just be aware that cabbage can become a bit softer after freezing and reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave them, stirring halfway through for even warming. Adding a splash of water or tamari sauce before reheating can help refresh the texture and flavor if things seem a little dry.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well in this stir-fry and will give a slightly lighter flavor while still pairing wonderfully with the cabbage and veggies.
Is tamari sauce gluten-free?
Yes, tamari is typically gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten. Just be sure to check the label to confirm the brand you have is certified gluten-free.
How spicy is this stir-fry with the crushed red pepper flakes?
It’s mild to moderately spicy depending on how much you add. You can omit the red pepper flakes for a completely mild dish or add more if you love that heat kick!
Can I use frozen cabbage for this recipe?
Fresh cabbage is best for texture, but in a pinch, frozen cabbage can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water to avoid sogginess in your stir-fry.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with firm tofu or tempeh crumbles and increase the vegetables. For extra flavor, add a splash of vegetarian oyster sauce or mushroom soy sauce to keep that umami taste.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe enough—it’s incredibly fast, incredibly flavorful, and incredibly easy to make on any busy night. Its wonderful mix of textures and colors keeps every single bite interesting and satisfying. Give it a try soon and watch it quickly become one of your go-to weeknight favorites!
Print
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This quick and flavorful Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry combines lean ground beef with crisp vegetables like cabbage, bell pepper, scallions, and carrots, all sautéed together with garlic and tamari sauce for a deliciously savory dish. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a healthy, satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Protein
- 8 oz lean ground beef
Vegetables
- 2 cups red or green cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, cut into thin strips
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (divided)
Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tamari sauce (or soy sauce/coconut aminos)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat to prepare for cooking the beef.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the lean ground beef along with 1 minced garlic clove to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and cooked through.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the beef cooks, chop the cabbage, thinly slice the red bell pepper and scallions, and cut the carrot into thin strips.
- Add vegetables and garlic: Add the chopped cabbage, carrot strips, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), one more minced garlic clove, and scallions to the skillet with the beef.
- Cook vegetables partially: Cover the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens slightly but still retains some crunch.
- Incorporate remaining ingredients: Stir in the sliced red bell pepper, the final minced garlic clove, and 2 tablespoons of tamari sauce.
- Finish cooking: Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the flavors meld together.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes according to taste.
- Substitute tamari with regular soy sauce or coconut aminos for a different flavor profile.
- Use lean ground turkey or chicken as an alternative to beef for a lighter version.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
