Looking for a fast, flavorful, and healthy weeknight dinner idea? This Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry delivers bold taste, satisfying texture, and guilt-free comfort all in one skillet. Inspired by classic Chinese stir-fry techniques, this dish uses simple ingredients like lean ground beef, cabbage, and carrots to create a savory and slightly sweet medley that’s ready in under 30 minutes. It’s easy, nutritious, and budget-friendly—no wonder it’s trending with health-conscious home cooks!
Why You’ll Love This Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
This stir-fry has earned a spot in our weekly dinner rotation—and here’s why you’ll love it too:
- Quick & Easy – Ready in about 25 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Healthy & Balanced – Loaded with veggies and lean protein.
- Minimal Ingredients – Uses staples you likely already have at home.
- One-Pan Wonder – Less mess, fewer dishes, more convenience.
- Customizable – Easily adaptable to fit low-carb, gluten-free, or paleo diets.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry
Here are the key ingredients that make this dish a hit:
- Lean Ground Beef – Provides rich, savory flavor and protein.
- Green Cabbage – Adds crunch and natural sweetness when cooked down.
- Carrot – Brings color and subtle sweetness for balance.
- Garlic & Ginger – Elevate the flavor with classic Chinese aromatics.
- Soy Sauce – Infuses the dish with umami and depth.
- Green Onions – Fresh garnish that adds sharpness and color.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry
Follow these easy steps for a perfect stir fry:
- Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, cook lean ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed. - Sauté Aromatics:
Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. - Add Carrots:
Toss in the julienned carrots and stir-fry for about 3 minutes until slightly tender. - Stir in Cabbage:
Add thinly sliced cabbage. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it softens and caramelizes slightly. - Season the Dish:
Drizzle in soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version), then toss everything together until well coated. - Finish & Serve:
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
Expert Tip: For maximum flavor, don’t overcrowd the pan—use a large skillet or wok and stir frequently to avoid steaming the veggies.
Recipe Tips & Variations
Make this recipe your own with these creative twists:
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and serve over cauliflower rice or eat on its own.
- More Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or snap peas.
- Asian-Inspired Sauce: Stir in a splash of rice vinegar and sesame oil at the end for extra flavor.
How to Store & Reheat
Storage:
Let leftovers cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to revive moisture.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry, here are a few more wholesome and flavor-packed recipes to try next:
- Quick Chicken & Quinoa Bowl – A protein-packed, one-bowl meal that’s perfect for meal prep.
- Celery Salad – A crisp, refreshing side dish loaded with nutrients and crunch.
- Ground Beef Stroganoff – A hearty, creamy comfort dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.
These recipes are just as easy, healthy, and satisfying—perfect additions to your weekly menu!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works great and makes it even leaner.
Is this stir fry gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos to make it gluten-free.
What type of cabbage is best?
Green cabbage is ideal, but napa cabbage or savoy will also work well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. It reheats well and makes for great meal prep lunches during the week.
This Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry is a no-fuss, all-flavor recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or healthy meal prep. With wholesome ingredients and bold Chinese-inspired flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try tonight and let us know how it turns out in the comments—or share it with someone who needs a new go-to recipe! to share your creation with us!
Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef 90% lean or higher
- ½ head green cabbage thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot julienned
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
- 2 –3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil optional
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add julienned carrots and cook for another 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
- Toss in the sliced cabbage. Stir-fry everything together for 5–7 minutes until the cabbage softens and wilts.
- Add soy sauce and stir well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.