Sometimes dinner just needs to be straightforward without losing flavor. This ground beef and cabbage stir fry fits that bill, coming together in about 25 minutes and offering a balance of savory and fresh that hits the spot when time is short. It’s one of those meals where the kitchen smells like a comforting hug, with hints of garlic and ginger filling the air.
One evening, I was juggling a few things—half paying attention to the pan, half to a phone call—and somehow managed to get the cabbage a little softer than I usually prefer. Still, when I sat down, the mix of tender beef, crisp-tender veggies, and that soy-based sauce felt like a small win. It wasn’t perfect, but that’s what made it homey. I think dinners like this are less about flawless execution and more about grabbing those few minutes to cook something nourishing and satisfying.
- It’s quick but doesn’t sacrifice flavor; the ginger and garlic really lift the dish.
- The cabbage adds a fresh crunch, though it’s easy to sneak in more or less depending on your mood.
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand, making it a low-fuss option.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No need to overthink it.
If you’re worried about leftovers, this stir fry keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days and reheats nicely in a skillet, keeping that fresh-cooked texture better than the microwave usually does.
PrintGround Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
A quick and flavorful ground beef and cabbage stir fry that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. This dish combines savory ground beef with tender cabbage and a simple soy-based sauce for a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary and transfer the beef to a plate.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
Add the sliced onion and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry for 5 to 7 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix well with the cabbage and onions.
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir to combine evenly.
Season with black pepper and red pepper flakes, adjusting to taste.
Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Don’t stress about fancy equipment here; a sturdy skillet or wok will do just fine. I usually serve this with steamed rice or sometimes just on its own when I want something lighter. You might try swapping out the cabbage for bok choy or adding a handful of shredded carrots for a bit more color and sweetness. I haven’t tested all of these swaps extensively, but they tend to work well in my kitchen. If you like it spicy, a pinch more red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey works but the flavor will be lighter, so you might want to adjust seasoning.
Is it okay to substitute soy sauce with tamari? Absolutely, tamari is a good gluten-free alternative.
Can I prep this ahead of time? You can chop veggies and measure sauces ahead, but cooking is best done fresh for the best texture.
When the evening rolls around and you’re wondering what to make, this stir fry is a solid choice. It’s uncomplicated, flavorful, and just the kind of dish you want when time is short but your appetite is big.