Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry: A Quick, Savory Weeknight Hero

In a world full of fast food and overly processed dinners, sometimes the simplest recipes offer the most comfort—and this Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry is no exception. With wholesome ingredients, bold umami flavors, and a lightning-fast cook time, this dish is an all-in-one solution for busy weeknights, healthy meal prep, or when you’re simply craving something satisfying without the fuss.

This stir fry brings together ground beef, crisp cabbage, tender mushrooms, and the punchy trio of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce—all over a fluffy bed of rice. It’s nutritious, adaptable, and most importantly, utterly delicious.

Who Is This Recipe For?

This recipe is ideal for:

• Busy professionals looking for a 30-minute meal packed with flavor.

• Budget-conscious families wanting a healthy, protein-packed dinner using everyday ingredients.

• Meal preppers needing something that reheats well and stores easily.

• Low-carb enthusiasts—just skip the rice and enjoy as-is or over cauliflower rice.

Whether you’re a college student cooking in a dorm kitchen or a parent with a hungry crew to feed, this recipe is a reliable go-to you’ll return to again and again.

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes from prep to plate.

• One-pan meal – Fewer dishes, more flavor.

• Customizable – Swap veggies or protein to suit your taste or pantry.

• Healthy comfort food – Lean protein, fiber-rich cabbage, and mushrooms deliver both flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:

• 1 pound ground beef

• 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced

• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced (or use button, cremini, or portobello)

• 4 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 inch fresh ginger, minced

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but recommended for depth)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Cooked rice, for serving

Essential Kitchen Equipment

To make this recipe successfully, gather the following tools:

• Large skillet or wok

• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula

• Cutting board and knife

• Garlic press (optional)

• Grater or microplane (for the ginger)

• Rice cooker or saucepan (if cooking fresh rice)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Heat Your Pan

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

2. Sauté Aromatics

Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base.

3. Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.

4. Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly browned.

5. Add Cabbage

Stir in the sliced cabbage and cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cabbage wilts and softens. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

6. Add the Sauce

Pour in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (if using), and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Mix well to evenly coat all the ingredients.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Finish with Green Onions

Remove from heat and stir in chopped green onions for a fresh, slightly sharp finish.

8. Serve & Garnish

Spoon the stir fry over steamed rice and garnish with additional green onions if desired.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is highly versatile. Try these swaps to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs:

Protein Variations

• Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option

• Plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian or vegan version

• Tofu or tempeh for a protein-rich plant-based choice

Veggie Additions

• Carrots, thinly sliced or shredded

• Bell peppers for color and crunch

• Zucchini or broccoli florets for added nutrition

• Baby spinach stirred in at the end for a leafy green boost

Sauce Swaps

• Replace oyster sauce with hoisin for a sweeter, thicker profile.

• Add a dash of rice vinegar or lime juice for brightness.

• For spice, toss in a bit of chili oil, sriracha, or crushed red pepper flakes.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips:

• Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the moisture.

• Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

Serving Suggestions

Starch Alternatives:

• Brown rice for extra fiber

• Quinoa or farro for a modern twist

• Cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version

Drinks to Pair:

• Jasmine or green tea for a soothing, complementary drink

• A dry Riesling or Pinot Noir if you’re serving this dish for dinner

• Cucumber water or lemonade for a refreshing non-alcoholic option

Side Dish Ideas:

• Steamed or roasted edamame

• A simple miso soup

• Pickled vegetables for crunch and acidity

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. This dish holds up very well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Swap out the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu, and skip the oyster sauce or use a vegan alternative.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and a gluten-free oyster sauce substitute to make the dish fully gluten-free.

Q: Can I add eggs?
A: Yes! Scramble an egg or two into the skillet after the beef has browned for extra protein and texture.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Definitely. Just make sure you use a large enough skillet or work in batches so the ingredients cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry proves that fast food can still be nourishing, flavorful, and home-cooked. It’s quick enough for weeknights, flexible enough to fit your diet, and satisfying enough to hit that comfort food sweet spot.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a hungry household, this recipe is your ticket to a delicious, low-effort, high-impact meal.