There’s something undeniably comforting about a meal that brings bold flavors, nourishing veggies, and satisfying protein all together in one pan. Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is exactly that—a quick, one-skillet wonder that’s brimming with umami, crisp-tender cabbage, and a whisper of heat from chili garlic paste. Whether you’re seeking a fast weeknight dinner, a make-ahead lunch, or just want to use up a head of cabbage, this is the dish you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how these straightforward ingredients combine to provide so much flavor and texture. Each component brings something special: freshness, bite, savoriness, and vibrant color, making this a truly memorable stir-fry.

Sesame oil: Toasty and aromatic, just a splash infuses the dish with irresistible depth.
Chili garlic paste (optional): This is where the magic happens—add it for a punchy kick, or leave it out for a milder vibe.
Minced ginger: Adds brightness and zing, waking up the whole dish.
Garlic (minced): Always necessary, garlic is the flavor backbone of any great stir-fry.
Ground sirloin: Lean, juicy, and oh-so-satisfying; choose sirloin for the best texture and flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together—taste as you go!
Napa cabbage (chopped) (or any kind of cabbage!): This is the star—use napa for delicate sweetness, or substitute green or savoy for crunch.
Water: Helps the cabbage soften and fully soak up the seasonings.
Soy sauce: Deep, savory goodness in every bite—don’t skip it.
Rice vinegar: A splash of acidity balances all those rich and salty notes.
Sugar: Just a hint rounds out the flavors and enhances the caramelization.
Minced scallions and sesame seeds (optional garnish): Lively freshness and a little crunch to finish things off beautifully.

How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

Fire up your wok or the biggest sauté pan you have, and bring it to high heat. Swirl in the sesame oil first, then toss in the chili garlic paste if using, along with the ginger and garlic. In just 30 seconds, the kitchen will fill with an absolutely mouthwatering aroma—don’t walk away! Stir constantly so nothing scorches.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground sirloin straight into the pan, right in the flavored oil. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper. As it cooks, use a wooden spoon to break the beef down into bite-sized morsels. Keep those pieces moving—after about 6 to 8 minutes, your beef should be nicely browned and super flavorful, picking up all those garlicky, gingery notes.

Step 3: Add the Star—Cabbage and Sauce

Now it’s time to stir in the chopped cabbage. Pour over the water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sprinkle the sugar evenly all over. Add another pinch of salt and pepper if needed. Give everything a good tumble in the pan: you want the cabbage to soak up all those delicious sauces. It just takes 3 to 4 minutes for the cabbage to soften but still keep that all-important crunch.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Before serving, pause for a quick taste test. Does it need a touch more salt, a dash more vinegar, or even a little drizzle of soy sauce? Stir-fry is wonderfully forgiving—don’t be shy about tweaking the seasoning to suit your palate.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Once your Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is sizzling and fragrant, dish it up hot. If you want to take it to the next level, don’t forget to sprinkle over some scallions and sesame seeds for that fresh, toasty finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Garnishes

A shower of thinly sliced scallions and a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds offer a flash of color and a welcome crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a quick drizzle of chili oil or a few snips of fresh cilantro make a lovely (and Insta-worthy) touch.

Side Dishes

While Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry can shine all on its own, it’s also a fantastic companion to steamed jasmine rice, nutty brown rice, or even wide rice noodles. For extra veggies, a quick cucumber salad or some simple stir-fried bok choy brings lively balance to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, pile the stir-fry into lettuce cups for a handheld meal or use it as a filling for rice paper rolls. You can even tuck leftovers into a tortilla with crisp veggies for a fusion-style wrap—perfect for lunchboxes or a change of pace at dinnertime.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftover Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge where it will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, making it a terrific make-ahead lunch option.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this dish! Simply portion the cooled stir-fry into freezer-friendly containers or bags. Be sure to squeeze out any excess air, then pop it in the freezer where it will keep well for up to two months. The cabbage’s texture will soften a bit, but the flavors remain crave-worthy.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to help loosen things up. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too—just give it a good stir halfway through to ensure everything heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of beef?

Absolutely! This recipe is a true chameleon: swap in ground turkey or chicken if you prefer something lighter, or even use plant-based ground crumbles to make it vegetarian-friendly without losing that satisfying texture.

What type of cabbage works best for Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry?

Napa cabbage is my top pick for its tender leaves and naturally sweet flavor. But honestly, any cabbage will do the trick—green, savoy, or even purple cabbage if you crave extra color. Just chop it to your preferred size and let it soak up all those delicious seasonings.

Is this dish spicy?

The heat level is totally customizable. Using chili garlic paste gives the dish some gentle warmth, but you can skip it for a mild version or add extra if you’re a fan of fiery flavors. It’s easy to tailor to your taste buds.

What’s the best way to meal prep Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry?

Simply double the recipe and store individual portions in airtight containers. It reheats exceptionally well, doesn’t get soggy, and keeps you set for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Add freshly chopped scallions or sesame seeds right before serving for extra zing!

Can I add extra vegetables?

Go for it! Toss in bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or even mushrooms in step two for added color, crunch, and nutrition. This is a forgiving recipe that welcomes whatever’s lingering in your fridge.

Final Thoughts

There’s true magic in a meal that’s both fast and deeply satisfying, and Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry delivers every single time. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll reach for whenever you crave comfort, simplicity, and loads of flavor. Give it a try soon—you may just find it becomes your weeknight hero too!