Name: Asian Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: ¼ cup maple syrup, brown sugar, or coconut sugar; ¼ cup coconut aminos, tamari, or soy sauce; 2 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; ¼ – ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional; 2 teaspoon arrowroot powder, or cornstarch; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb ground beef; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced; ½ cup shredded carrots; 4 whole green onions, sliced into 1” pieces; kosher salt, to taste; ground pepper, to taste; sesame seeds, to taste, for garnish; Boston Bibb lettuce; steamed white rice or sauteed cauliflower rice, optional, for serving

Jump to Recipe

Asian Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are your answer to weeknight dinners that feel like a real treat but come together in practically no time. Tender, savory ground beef tossed with bursts of ginger, garlic, and crunchy vegetables, all folded into cool, crisp lettuce leaves—there’s something irresistible about their combination of flavors and textures. Make it light with cauliflower rice or tuck a spoonful of jasmine rice inside for that extra comfort. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a hungry crowd, these wraps promise to deliver big taste with very little fuss.

Asian Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Asian Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps is how streamlined yet special the ingredients are. Every item adds depth, color, or delightful crunch, making this simple lineup crucial for a satisfying bite.

Maple syrup, brown sugar, or coconut sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the umami and spice in the sauce.
Coconut aminos, tamari, or soy sauce: Brings the essential savory note that makes each bite full of rich, layered flavor.
Rice vinegar: Provides a gentle tang that keeps the sauce bright and lively.
Toasted sesame oil: Gives the dish its signature nuttiness and delightful aroma.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle kick, these spice things up!
Arrowroot powder or cornstarch: Thickens the sauce so it luxuriously coats every morsel of beef and veggie.
Olive oil: Keeps the beef juicy while adding a touch of fruity richness.
Ground beef: The star of the show, bringing hearty flavor and protein power.
Garlic (minced): Packs a punch of savory aroma that infuses the entire dish.
Fresh ginger (grated): Offers warmth and a bit of zing that makes the filling irresistible.
Red bell pepper (finely diced): Adds mellow sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
Shredded carrots: Provides a delicate crunch and subtle earthy flavor.
Green onions (sliced): Finish with a pop of freshness and a gentle onion bite.
Kosher salt and ground pepper: Essential for dialing in the perfect seasoning.
Sesame seeds: A simple garnish for nutty flair and visual appeal.
Boston Bibb lettuce: The ideal wrapper—soft, sturdy, and refreshingly crisp.
Steamed white rice or sautéed cauliflower rice (optional): Add for extra heartiness or keep it low-carb—your choice!

How to Make Asian Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Mix Up the Flavorful Lettuce Wrap Sauce

Begin by whisking together all of your sauce ingredients: maple syrup (or your sweetener of choice), coconut aminos, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, and those red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Make sure everything is well-blended and then stir in the arrowroot powder or cornstarch. This little step is what gives the sauce its velvety thickness—so go ahead and give it a good whisk until there are no lumps.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat the olive oil in a sturdy skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon, letting it cook until it’s no longer pink. This only takes about five minutes, and you’ll already start smelling that wonderful, savory aroma in your kitchen!

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Ginger

Now, toss in the minced garlic and fresh ginger. Stir constantly for about one to two minutes—just until everything becomes supremely fragrant. This step is where that classic, vibrant taste of Asian Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps really begins to blossom.

Step 4: Add Crunchy Veggies

Fold in your finely diced bell pepper and shredded carrots, giving everything a sturdy stir. Let them cook for an additional three to four minutes. The veggies should soften but still hold their beautiful, tender-crisp texture—so every bite of your lettuce wrap has that lively crunch!

Step 5: Pour in the Sauce and Simmer

Next, pour your prepped sauce right over the beef and vegetable mixture. As it simmers for two to three minutes, the sauce will thicken and coat everything in a glossy, savory glaze. Taste, and then season with a pinch of salt and pepper if you think it needs a finishing touch.

Step 6: Add Green Onions for Freshness

Stir in the sliced green onions at the very end to give a punch of freshness and color. Their gentle bite and vibrant green bring this filling to life, setting the stage for those perfect wraps.

Step 7: Assemble the Lettuce Wraps

Spoon the warm filling into leaves of crisp Boston Bibb lettuce. If you’re adding rice or cauliflower rice, tuck it in first before piling on the beef mixture. A sprinkle of sesame seeds as garnish, and you’re ready to eat! This recipe typically makes eight hearty wraps—perfect for sharing or savoring as seconds.

How to Serve Asian Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

Garnishes

When it comes to finishing touches, don’t be shy! Sprinkle plenty of sesame seeds over the top for a toasty crunch. A few more sliced green onions or even fresh herbs like cilantro add a nice burst of color and even more flavor dimension. For a little heat, a dash of extra red pepper flakes on each wrap pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the sauce.

Side Dishes

These wraps are versatile enough to work as a light meal on their own or as part of a big spread. Serve them alongside a simple bowl of miso soup, a quick veggie stir-fry, or crisp cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. If you’re leaning into comfort, a side of steamed rice or even roasted sweet potatoes can round things out deliciously.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your presentation for a party or gathering by making a lettuce wrap bar! Arrange the beef filling, lettuce leaves, rice, and toppings in separate bowls. Let everyone build their own wraps—kids love this interactive approach, and it’s great for making every bite exactly how you like it. You can even serve the filling with rice as an open bowl and add shredded lettuce on top for an “inside-out” version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover filling, let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. It’s super convenient for meal-prepping lunches or speedy dinners, as the flavors only get better with time!

Freezing

Asian Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps filling freezes beautifully. Transfer just the beef mixture (without the lettuce or rice) into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for a wrap night, just thaw it overnight in the fridge!

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the filling over low heat on the stovetop or pop it into the microwave for a minute or two, stirring halfway through. Always add the fresh lettuce and garnishes after reheating to ensure everything stays crisp and vivid.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully in this recipe. The flavors of the sauce are robust enough to complement lighter proteins while keeping the meal just as satisfying.

What type of lettuce is best for these wraps?

Boston Bibb lettuce is a favorite for Asian Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps because it’s tender yet sturdy and makes the perfect cup. If you can’t find Bibb, butter or romaine hearts are great alternatives.

How can I make these wraps gluten-free?

Be sure to use coconut aminos or tamari instead of regular soy sauce, and double check that your thickener (like arrowroot powder) is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

Is the filling spicy?

The base recipe is gently spiced, thanks to optional red pepper flakes. If you’re sensitive to heat, simply leave them out. If you love spice, add more or serve with a side of sriracha or chili crisp.

Can I prepare part of this meal ahead of time?

Yes! Both the sauce and the ground beef filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat the filling, wash and separate your lettuce leaves, and assemble your wraps fresh.

Final Thoughts

Give these Asian Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps a spot on your menu this week and let them brighten up your table! They’re fresh, easy, and bursting with flavor—plus, they invite everyone to dig in and customize their own perfect bite. If you’re after a dinner that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious, this is one recipe you’ll want to make again and again.