Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir-Fry is one of those dishes that proves simple ingredients can come together to create something absolutely delicious. It’s quick, hearty, and packed with savory flavors that feel comforting yet vibrant. Ground beef provides richness and protein, while cabbage adds a slightly sweet crunch that balances everything out. Tossed in a soy-based sauce with garlic, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil, this stir-fry is the perfect combination of satisfying and wholesome. Best of all, it’s a one-pan meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy evenings when you want something tasty without too much effort.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Cooking Directions

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the beef. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Toss in the sliced cabbage and stir well. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the beef and cabbage mixture.
Stir thoroughly to coat all the ingredients. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce lightly thickens.
Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Nutrients (Per Serving, 4 servings)

Calories: ~370
Protein: 26 g
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: 950 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it is the definition of quick comfort food. It’s budget-friendly, flavorful, and requires very little prep work. Unlike stir-fries that demand multiple specialty ingredients, this one uses simple pantry staples that most people already have. The combination of juicy beef and tender cabbage creates a hearty meal that doesn’t feel heavy, and the sauce ties everything together with a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes. It’s versatile too—easy enough for a casual dinner yet tasty enough to serve to guests when you want something crowd-pleasing and fuss-free.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

This dish draws inspiration from classic Chinese home cooking, where cabbage is often stir-fried with meats like pork, beef, or chicken. Cabbage has long been a staple in Chinese cuisine, valued for its affordability, availability, and ability to absorb flavors beautifully. Pairing it with ground beef is a Western twist that makes the recipe accessible, quick, and protein-rich. The soy-based sauce with garlic and ginger stays true to traditional Chinese stir-fry techniques, highlighting bold flavors while keeping the cooking method simple and efficient. It’s a recipe that bridges cultures while keeping the essence of homestyle cooking alive.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ground beef is the backbone of this dish, adding richness and protein while being easy to cook and affordable. Cabbage is the hero vegetable—slightly sweet, crunchy, and able to soak up all the sauce flavors. Soy sauce brings saltiness and umami depth, while oyster sauce enhances that savory profile with a hint of sweetness. Hoisin sauce adds complexity, giving the dish its subtle richness. Garlic and ginger provide the aromatic punch that makes stir-fries so addictive. Sesame oil is the finishing touch, adding warmth and nuttiness. Together, these ingredients create a perfectly balanced, crave-worthy stir-fry.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the best things about Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir-Fry is how well it keeps. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too, though stirring halfway through reheating ensures even warming. This dish also freezes well—place cooled portions in freezer bags or containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Common Variations to Try

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste or what you have on hand. For a spicier kick, add chili flakes or fresh sliced chilies. Swap ground beef for ground pork, chicken, or even turkey for a leaner version. Vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas can be added for extra color and nutrition. If you’re low on cabbage, napa cabbage or bok choy works beautifully. For a low-carb option, skip the rice and serve the stir-fry over cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves. Each variation gives the dish a new personality while keeping it delicious.

Pairing Recommendations

This stir-fry shines when paired with simple sides. Steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice is the classic choice, soaking up all the savory sauce. If you want something heartier, serve it with egg noodles or lo mein. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh cucumber salad or steamed broccoli for added crunch and color. A hot bowl of miso soup or wonton soup makes a great starter, creating a complete Asian-inspired meal. When it comes to drinks, green tea balances the richness, while a light beer or crisp white wine complements the flavors beautifully.

Health Benefits

Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir-Fry is not just tasty—it’s nutritious too. Beef provides high-quality protein, iron, and B vitamins, which are essential for energy and muscle health. Cabbage is loaded with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support immunity and digestion. Garlic and ginger not only boost flavor but also provide anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Using sesame oil in moderation adds healthy fats. By pairing the stir-fry with rice or other vegetables, you create a well-rounded, balanced meal that fuels the body while satisfying cravings without going overboard on calories.

Conclusion

Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir-Fry is proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a meal that’s full of flavor and satisfaction. This dish is quick, adaptable, and packed with comforting textures and tastes. The savory beef, tender cabbage, and punchy sauce make every bite memorable, while its versatility ensures you can tweak it to suit your mood or pantry. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or just craving a delicious stir-fry, this recipe is bound to become a regular part of your kitchen rotation.

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