Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry

If you’re craving something cozy, hearty, and packed with flavor—but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen—this Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry is about to become your new go-to. Think sizzling ground beef, tender-crisp cabbage, and a savory sauce that clings to every bite with just the right balance of umami and zing. The kind of dish that smells so good while it’s cooking, your neighbors might “just happen” to swing by.

This one’s got weeknight hero written all over it. It’s simple enough for beginners, fast enough for busy nights, and satisfying enough to please everyone at the table (yes, even the picky eaters). Plus, it’s totally customizable—spicy, mild, extra saucy—you do you. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be keeping ground beef and cabbage stocked on the regular.

So, grab your skillet and let’s stir things up!

Why You’ll Love Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.

Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.

Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.

Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry

Here’s the beauty of this stir fry—it turns everyday staples into something truly crave-worthy. Let’s take a look at what’s going into the pan:

Ground Beef

Rich, flavorful, and hearty. It forms the meaty base of the stir fry, soaking up all those garlicky, savory notes like a champ.

Green Cabbage

Crunchy, slightly sweet, and perfect for stir frying. It softens beautifully while still holding just enough bite for contrast.

Garlic

The aromatic powerhouse. Adds depth and a bold, savory punch that ties the flavors together.

Ginger

Fresh and zesty, ginger brings a warming, peppery kick that keeps things interesting.

Soy Sauce

Umami central. It adds that deep, salty flavor that gives this dish its signature Chinese-style profile.

Sesame Oil

Just a drizzle brings a toasty, nutty aroma that elevates the whole stir fry. Don’t skip it—this one’s a game-changer.

Green Onions

A pop of color and freshness. Added at the end for that perfect finishing touch.

Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)

If you like a little heat, sprinkle these in to give the dish a subtle kick.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to get a good sear on the beef right from the start.

Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the hot pan. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

Add Garlic and Ginger

Toss in the garlic and ginger. Stir constantly for about a minute until fragrant—this is where the flavor magic begins.

Stir in Cabbage

Add the chopped cabbage and toss to coat it in all those delicious beef juices. Cook for 4–5 minutes until it softens but still has a little crunch.

Season to Taste

Pour in the soy sauce and drizzle the sesame oil over the top. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 1–2 minutes. Add red pepper flakes here if using.

Finishing Touches

Stir in the sliced green onions and give everything one last toss.

Serve and Enjoy

Spoon it into bowls while it’s hot and steamy. Serve it solo, over rice, or wrapped in lettuce cups for a fun twist.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: [Time to prepare ingredients]
Cook Time: [Time to cook or bake]
Total Time: [Total time needed]

How to Serve Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry

This dish is super flexible when it comes to serving options. Here are a few tasty ideas:

Steamed Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up all the savory juices. Jasmine or brown rice both work beautifully.
Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, spoon the stir fry into crisp lettuce leaves—crunchy, fresh, and fun.
Noodles: Toss it with cooked rice noodles or lo mein for a heartier version.
Asian-Inspired Slaw: Serve alongside a tangy slaw for contrast in texture and flavor.
Egg on Top: A fried egg with a runny yolk takes this from great to whoa.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and portion your seasonings in advance for a breezy, 15-minute dinner.
Spice It Up: Add chili oil, sriracha, or a touch of five-spice powder for a fun flavor twist.
Dietary Adjustments: Use tamari for gluten-free, or swap the beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative.
Storage Tips: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Double the Batch: It freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container and reheat when needed.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option and still so flavorful with the seasonings.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it reheats wonderfully. Cook it fully, let it cool, then store in the fridge.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Freeze in individual portions for quick meals. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: A skillet over medium heat works great, or microwave it in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely—just make sure your pan is big enough! Cook the beef in batches if needed.

Q7: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A7: It can be! Just swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free version like tamari or coconut aminos.

Q8: What side dishes go well with this recipe?
A8: Think simple rice, sesame noodles, cucumber salad, or even dumplings.

Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: Use lean beef, less oil, and add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.

Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?
A10: A large skillet or wok is ideal. Cast iron or non-stick both work well.

Conclusion

Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry is proof that a simple meal can still feel like something special. It’s flavorful, fast, and endlessly adaptable—just the kind of recipe that becomes a weeknight staple. So go ahead, give it a try. Light up that stovetop, breathe in those savory, garlicky aromas, and enjoy a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. You’ve got this—and trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Print