When you’re craving a quick yet satisfying dinner, this easy Chinese ground beef & cabbage stir fry is the perfect solution. It’s packed with bold flavors and fresh veggies, making it a balanced meal that comes together in just 25 minutes. Whether you’re new to stir fries or looking for a fuss-free dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up a tasty dish with everyday ingredients. The combination of savory ground beef and crisp cabbage, enhanced by a savory sauce, delivers that comforting Chinese takeout taste without the wait or extra cost.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 25 minutes for busy weeknights
- Uses simple ingredients you likely already have
- Balanced with protein and fresh vegetables
- One-pan recipe with easy cleanup
- Customizable spice level to suit your taste
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your stir fry.
- 1 pound lean ground beef (85% lean recommended)
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
How to Make Easy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry – Quick 25-Min Dinner
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Push the beef to one side and add the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until fragrant and the onions start to soften.
- Add the shredded cabbage and stir everything together. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, toasted sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour this sauce over the stir fry and toss to coat evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use a large skillet or wok for even cooking and plenty of space to toss ingredients.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage; it should remain slightly crisp to add texture.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level according to your preference.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.
- If you prefer, swap ground beef for ground pork or turkey for a different take.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It makes a great next-day lunch or quick dinner addition.
To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until hot, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. Avoid overcooking to keep the cabbage crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this stir fry?
Absolutely! You can add sliced bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms to increase variety and color. Just add vegetables that cook quickly so they stay crisp.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce and ensure your oyster and hoisin sauces are gluten-free brands.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can chop the vegetables and mix the sauce ahead to save time. Cook the stir fry fresh for the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with this stir fry?
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles. You could also serve it alongside simple steamed vegetables or a light Asian-inspired salad.