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If you’ve ever craved a meal that’s both wholesome and bursting with vibrant flavors, this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines tender, savory ground beef with crisp, colorful vegetables in a quick and satisfying stir-fry that feels like a cozy hug after a busy day. The mix of cabbage, bell pepper, carrot, and fresh herbs brings a wonderful balance of textures and tastes, while the tamari sauce adds a perfect umami kick. This recipe is not only super simple to whip up but also packed with nutrition, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner that’s ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting great results starts with fresh, straightforward ingredients that each play their own delightful role in this stir-fry. You’ll notice how the crunch of the cabbage and carrots contrasts beautifully with the savory richness of the ground beef, all tied together by aromatic garlic and herbs.
- Red or green cabbage: Provides a crunchy, slightly sweet base that softens just enough during cooking.
- Red bell pepper: Adds color and a mild, fresh sweetness to keep the dish lively.
- Scallions: Fresh and slightly pungent, they bring brightness and a subtle onion flavor.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse the dish with warm, aromatic depth that wakes up every bite.
- Tamari sauce: A rich, gluten-free alternative to soy sauce that gives the stir-fry a savory umami boost.
- Olive oil: The perfect cooking oil here, giving a light, fruity flavor while helping everything cook evenly.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: Adds a herby freshness to finish the dish with a pop of green.
- Lean ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this dish filling yet light.
- Carrot: Thin strips add vibrant color and a sweet crunch during the quick stir-fry.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat for those who love a touch of spice to enliven their meals.
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil and Sauté Ground Beef
Begin by warming olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the lean ground beef along with one minced garlic clove. Sauté the beef for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This step sets the foundation for the rich, savory flavor that anchors the dish.
Step 2: Prep Your Veggies While the Beef Cooks
While the beef is browning, chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, thinly slice the red bell pepper and scallions, and cut the carrot into delicate thin strips. Getting these ready during the cooking of the beef helps keep the recipe speedy and efficient—a true weeknight lifesaver.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage, Carrot, Scallions, and More Garlic
Once your beef is looking perfect, toss in the chopped cabbage, carrot strips, sliced scallions, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want that subtle spicy kick. Be sure to add another minced garlic clove here for an extra burst of flavor. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will soften the cabbage just enough while keeping its satisfying crunch.
Step 4: Stir in Red Bell Pepper, Final Touches, and Sauce
Next, stir in the thinly sliced red bell pepper along with the remaining minced garlic clove. Pour in the tamari sauce and give everything another 2 to 3 minutes of cooking. The veggies should get tender-crisp, marrying all those beautiful flavors into one harmonious dish.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Serve
When everything is cooked just right, remove the pan from the heat and toss in a handful of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. This final addition adds a bright, herbal lift that finishes the stir-fry perfectly. Serve immediately while warm and savor every delicious bite!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro brings an inviting pop of color and a burst of freshness that makes the dish feel even livelier. If you’re feeling adventurous, a squeeze of lime or a few toasted sesame seeds can provide an extra layer of zest and texture.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry shines wonderfully on its own as a complete meal, but if you want to round it out, consider serving it alongside fluffy jasmine rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even some warm, crusty bread to soak up those delicious pan juices.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests, present the Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe in individual lettuce cups for a fresh and fun handheld meal. Alternatively, piling it over a bed of steamed noodles or spiralized zucchini can bring delightful variety to the presentation while keeping things colorful and appetizing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic next-day lunch or quick dinner option.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, it freezes well too. Cool the stir-fry completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much flavor or texture, perfect for a future quick meal.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Stir frequently to rewarm evenly and keep those veggies crisp-tender. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but the skillet method preserves the stir-fry’s fresh textures best.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork are excellent substitutes that keep the dish lean and flavorful. Each will bring a unique twist, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
Is tamari sauce necessary or can I use soy sauce?
Tamari is great for those needing a gluten-free option, but regular soy sauce or coconut aminos work just as well. Just be mindful of the saltiness and adjust accordingly to suit your taste.
How do I make this dish spicier?
For an extra kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of chili garlic sauce while cooking. Fresh sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce at serving also deliver fantastic heat.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
To go vegetarian, swap the ground beef for tofu crumbles, tempeh, or a plant-based meat alternative. The seasonings and cooking technique stay the same, making it just as satisfying.
What’s the best way to chop the cabbage for this stir-fry?
The cabbage should be chopped into bite-sized pieces—not too big, so it cooks quickly and evenly, but not too small to avoid it becoming mushy. Thin ribbons or roughly chopped chunks both work well depending on your texture preference.
Final Thoughts
The Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe is truly one of those magical dishes that brings comfort, health, and speed together on a single plate. Its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and quick cooking time make it a go-to whenever you’re short on time but crave something nourishing and delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own staple in the kitchen!
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Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful 15-minute meal featuring lean ground beef sautéed with fresh vegetables like cabbage, bell pepper, scallions, and carrot. Enhanced with garlic, tamari sauce, and a touch of crushed red pepper flakes, this dish is a healthy, low-carb stir-fry perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 8 oz lean ground beef
Vegetables
- 2 cups red or green cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, cut into thin strips
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (divided)
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp tamari sauce (or soy sauce/coconut aminos)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Heat oil and garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add 1 minced garlic clove to infuse the oil with flavor.
- Cook ground beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Prepare vegetables while beef cooks: While the beef is cooking, chop the cabbage, slice the red bell pepper and scallions, and cut the carrot into thin strips.
- Add cabbage and carrots: Add the chopped cabbage, carrot strips, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), another minced garlic clove, and the sliced scallions to the skillet with the beef.
- Cover and soften cabbage: Cover the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens slightly but still retains some crunch.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the red bell pepper, the last minced garlic clove, and the tamari sauce. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the fresh chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful stir-fry.
Notes
- Use tamari sauce to keep the dish gluten-free; substitute with soy sauce if preferred.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for no heat.
- For a lower-fat version, use extra-lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Make sure not to overcook the vegetables to maintain texture and nutrients.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
