If your dinner routine feels a little boring lately, this Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry might be the surprise you didn’t know you needed. It’s colorful, quick to make, full of flavor, and secretly healthy. This is one of those humble meals that feels good to eat and even better to serve. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something nourishing without fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
- Simple & Fast: Just 30 minutes start to finish
- Budget-Friendly: Cabbage is cheap, beef stretches far
- Packed with Veggies: Get those nutrients in!
- Customizable: Switch the protein or veggies easily
- Low-Carb Dinner Idea: Great for cutting back without sacrifice
Ingredients
Ground Beef
The heart of this stir fry, bringing savory flavor and satisfying protein.
Green Cabbage
Shredded and lightly wilted, it soaks up the sauce while staying crunchy.
Carrots
Adds natural sweetness, color, and texture balance.
Garlic & Ginger
The classic stir fry combo for warmth and aroma.
Green Onions
Stirred in at the end for freshness and bite.
Soy Sauce
Adds saltiness and umami to tie it all together.
Sesame Oil
Nutty and rich, a little goes a long way.
Sriracha
Just enough heat to wake up your taste buds (adjust to your liking).
Brown Sugar
Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness.
Note: Complete ingredients with measurements will be available in the recipe card below this article.
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
1. Whisk the Sauce
Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Set aside.
2. Prep the Veggies
Shred half a green cabbage, grate the carrots, mince garlic, and ginger. Slice green onions.
3. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper until browned.
4. Add Veggies
Toss in the cabbage and carrots. Stir-fry until the cabbage is slightly wilted but still has bite.
5. Pour Sauce
Stir in your prepped sauce and sliced green onions. Let it cook for 2 more minutes to meld flavors.
6. Serve
Top with sesame seeds or a drizzle of sriracha if desired. Serve on its own or over rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps.
Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Stir Fry Sauce
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp sriracha adjust to taste
- 0.5 Tbsp brown sugar
Stir Fry
- 0.5 lb lean ground beef
- 0.5 head green cabbage shredded
- 2 carrots grated
- 3 green onions sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger grated
- 0.5 Tbsp neutral cooking oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Shred cabbage, grate carrots, mince garlic and ginger, and slice green onions.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper until browned.
- Add shredded cabbage and carrots. Stir-fry until slightly wilted.
- Pour in the sauce and sliced green onions. Stir and cook 2 minutes more.
- Serve warm, topped with sesame seeds or extra sriracha if desired.
Notes
Easy Tips & Variations
- Swap the Meat: Try it with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a veggie version.
- More Crunch: Add bell peppers, snow peas, or water chestnuts.
- Use a Shortcut: Pre-shredded coleslaw mix works great in place of cabbage and carrots.
- Make it Saucy: Double the sauce if you like extra flavor and moisture.
What to Serve With It
- Steamed white rice or jasmine rice
- Rice noodles or soba noodles
- Coconut rice for an exotic twist
- Kimchi, cucumber salad, or a fried egg on top for a full bowl moment
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the beef for tofu or mushrooms and use soy sauce or tamari for a fully plant-based stir fry.
Can I use coleslaw mix?
Absolutely. It saves time and gives you that cabbage-carrot combo instantly.
How long does it last in the fridge?
About 3–4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
This Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is proof that quick and healthy can still be seriously satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this dish adapts beautifully to your needs, your fridge, and your taste. It’s the kind of no-fuss, one-pan recipe you’ll find yourself returning to whenever you want something warm, comforting, and packed with flavor.
Bookmark it, share it, and make it yours, and as always, Keep This Recipe in your kitchen, your heart, and your favorites list. Because the best meals are the ones you want to keep.
