Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Name: Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated; 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish); 1 tsp sesame oil

Bowl of Chinese ground beef stir-fry with cabbage and vegetables

By :

Laura

November 8, 2025

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Why make this recipe

Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is an easy and delicious dish that brings together lean ground beef and fresh cabbage in a quick, flavorful stir-fry. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a well-rounded meal for the whole family. Plus, you can whip it up in just one pan, minimizing cleanup time.

How to make Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Making this stir-fry is simple and takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish. The key is to prep your ingredients ahead of time so that once you start cooking, everything comes together quickly. Follow the easy steps outlined below to create a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef
4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp vegetable oil
3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 tsp sesame oil

Directions

Prepare your ingredients: Mince garlic and ginger, and slice cabbage into thin strips. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and quickly.
Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This is when the oil is hot enough to start cooking the beef.
Cook the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Make sure to break the beef apart with a spatula while it cooks.
Add aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Add cabbage: Toss in the sliced cabbage. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly wilted. Cabbage cooks down quickly, so keep an eye on it.
Finish with sauce: Pour in the soy sauce. Mix well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gives everything a chance to meld together whilst adding flavor.
Garnish and serve: Drizzle sesame oil over the stir-fry before serving and top with chopped green onions for a fresh crunch.

Nutritional benefits

This stir-fry is not just tasty but also contains a variety of nutritional benefits:

Lean protein: Ground beef is a great source of protein which helps in muscle building and keeps you full longer.
Fiber: The cabbage provides fiber that aids in digestion and helps control weight.
Vitamins and minerals: Cabbage is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and several other important nutrients that support overall health.
Low in sodium: Using low-sodium soy sauce helps keep the dish lower in salt but still full of flavor.

What to Serve With Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

This dish is versatile and pairs well with many sides. Here are some suggestions:

Rice: Serve it over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the flavors.
Noodles: For a heartier meal, pair it with soba or rice noodles.
Salad: A simple cucumber salad or coleslaw can complement the dish well and add freshness.
Quinoa: This can provide a nutritious alternative to rice and offers additional protein.

Why You’ll Love This

You will appreciate this recipe for its simplicity and flavor. It’s a one-pan meal that requires little cleanup, making it ideal for busy nights. The combination of tender beef and crunchy cabbage creates a satisfying texture that anyone will enjoy. It’s also easy to adapt; you can include other vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

How to store Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container. Keep the stir-fry in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stir-fry for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips and mistakes to avoid

Don’t overcook the beef: Make sure to watch the ground beef while cooking. Overcooking can make it tough.
Slice cabbage evenly: Uniform slices help it cook evenly and make the dish look more appealing.
Prep ahead: To save time, chop all the vegetables and garlic/ginger beforehand. This keeps the cooking process smooth.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will make a big difference in flavor compared to dried versions.

Variation

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

Add more vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for a vibrant and nutritious boost.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a kick of heat.
Change the protein: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or tofu for a different flavor and texture.
Add nuts: Toss in some cashews or peanuts for a crunchy element.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen ground beef?

Yes, you can, but make sure to thaw it properly before cooking. Ground beef cooks more evenly when it’s not frozen.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives like lentils, tofu, or tempeh to make it vegetarian-friendly.

3. How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is not spicy as written, but you can easily adjust the heat level by adding more garlic, ginger, or spicy sauces like sriracha.

By following these straightforward steps, you will create a delightful Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry that delights everyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking!