Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

When you crave something hearty, lightning-fast, and full of flavor, look no further than Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry. This dish brings together tender beef and crisp cabbage in a glossy, savory sauce, transforming simple staples into a mouthwatering meal that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re new to stir fries or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is an absolute lifesaver on busy nights, and you’ll love how easily it can be customized to taste. Trust me, after one bite, this will quickly join your weeknight favorites!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is just how few ingredients you need to create a big, bold flavor. Each component truly shines and plays a part in the dish’s texture and color—don’t skip a thing for the best result!

• Ground Beef: Choose a lean blend for less grease, but enough fat for richness and flavor.
• Cabbage: Green cabbage adds crunch and sweetness—slice it thin for the perfect texture!
• Carrots: These not only add vivid color, but a subtle sweetness that balances the savory notes.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses each bite with that irresistible aromatic depth.
• Ginger: A little goes a long way in brightening up the whole stir fry.
• Soy Sauce: The backbone of your sauce—it delivers salty, umami goodness.
• Oyster Sauce: Intensifies flavor with sweet, briny undertones and a beautiful glaze.
• Sesame Oil: Drizzle at the end for a toasty, nutty aroma that instantly makes it “Chinese takeout” style.
• Green Onions: For color, freshness, and a gentle onion bite.
• Optional Hot Sauce or Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in for a hint of heat, totally to your liking.

How to Make Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies and Aromatics

Start by slicing your cabbage thinly for optimal tenderness and quick cooking. Peel and julienne the carrots, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Laying everything out before the stir fry begins makes the whole process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add your ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it’s no longer pink, allowing it to get a touch of caramelization for bigger flavor. If there’s excess fat, drain it off now.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

With the beef still sizzling, add the garlic and ginger straight to the pan. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds—just until those amazing aromas bloom. This quick step builds the flavor foundation of the whole Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry.

Step 4: Stir Fry Veggies

Add the cabbage and carrots to the pan. Toss everything together and stir fry for about 2-3 minutes, just until the veggies begin to wilt but still hold plenty of crunch and color. This is key for that perfect stir fry texture!

Step 5: Season and Finish

Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring well to coat everything in the glossy, savory mixture. Toss in green onions, and drizzle with sesame oil right at the end for maximum aroma. Taste and adjust with hot sauce or red pepper flakes if you love a little fire. That’s it! Serve piping hot and get ready to dig in.

How to Serve Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Garnishes

Top your stir fry with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or even a light sprinkle of crispy fried shallots. These little touches don’t just make it beautiful—they add bursts of flavor and texture to every bite.

Side Dishes

For a complete meal, serve the stir fry over steamed jasmine rice, fluffy brown rice, or even noodles for slurp-worthy fun. If you want to round out the table, pair it with a quick cucumber salad or classic Chinese egg drop soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon your stir fry into crisp lettuce cups for a fun, low-carb twist, or wrap it up in thin Chinese pancakes for street food vibes. Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry also makes a fantastic filling for hand pies or even as the centerpiece of an Asian-inspired grain bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it cool before sealing to preserve its bright flavors and crisp veggies.

Freezing

If you need to freeze leftovers, portion them into freezer-safe containers. The beef and sauce freeze well, though the cabbage might soften slightly when reheated. For best results, enjoy within a month.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the saucy goodness. A quick zap in the microwave works too—just stir halfway through to heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based crumbles work seamlessly in this stir fry and soak up all the delicious sauce just as well.

Is Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry spicy?

The base recipe isn’t spicy at all, so it’s great for the whole family. But feel free to add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to add as much kick as you like!

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Try sliced bell peppers, snap peas, bok choy, or mushrooms. This recipe is a great way to use up odds and ends in your vegetable drawer.

What kind of cabbage works best?

Classic green cabbage is ideal here for its sweetness and crunch, but Napa cabbage or even purple cabbage can be delicious for a twist.

How can I avoid soggy vegetables?

The key is a super-hot pan and quick stir frying. Don’t overcook—pull the veggies from the heat while they’re still vibrant and crisp-tender for the perfect Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry every time.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry! It’s quick, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable, so you can make it your own with whatever you have in the kitchen. Give it a go this week—it might just become your new go-to dinner!

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