Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry – Quick and Easy 20-Minute Dinner

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, sizzling pan of something hearty and flavorful waiting on the stove after a long day. For me, that dish is this spicy ground beef and cabbage stir-fry. It’s the kind of recipe that checks all the boxes—it’s quick, simple, nourishing, and full of flavor with just the right touch of spice. What’s even better is that it uses just a handful of everyday ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen.

This dish came into my life on one of those “what do I have in the fridge?” nights. I had a half head of cabbage, some ground beef, garlic, and a few pantry staples like tamari and olive oil. I threw everything into a pan, added a little heat with chili flakes, and crossed my fingers. The result? A savory, spicy, and slightly sweet stir-fry that instantly became a repeat request from everyone at the dinner table.

What makes this recipe extra special is how versatile and customizable it is. You can adjust the spice level, add more veggies, or even swap the protein. But the real star here is the combination of tender ground beef and crisp-tender cabbage, all soaked in a rich, garlicky tamari-ginger sauce that clings to every bite. It’s bold, satisfying, and surprisingly light.

If you’re looking for a no-fuss meal that still feels exciting and full of flavor, this is the one. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep Sundays, or even casual gatherings, this stir-fry proves that a humble skillet and a few good ingredients are really all you need for a standout dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and cabbage stir-fry Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this spicy beef and cabbage stir-fry. It’s one of those dishes that hits that perfect sweet spot between comforting and refreshing, hearty and healthy, flavorful and fast. Let’s break it down a little more.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need fancy techniques or hours in the kitchen. This entire meal comes together in about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for hectic evenings when you want something homemade but don’t want to spend all night cooking. The prep work is minimal—just a bit of chopping—and everything cooks in one pan, which means cleanup is a breeze.

Second, the flavor is out of this world. The combination of garlic, tamari, chili flakes, and fresh ginger creates a bold, umami-rich sauce that coats the beef and cabbage perfectly. The chili flakes add just the right amount of heat, while the tamari brings in a salty, slightly sweet depth. The ginger brightens everything up, and the toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top add a nutty finish that pulls all the flavors together.

Third, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Even picky eaters love this dish because it’s familiar yet exciting. The beef is juicy and flavorful, the cabbage becomes sweet and tender as it cooks, and the spices can be adjusted to suit your taste. Want it spicier? Add more chili flakes. Looking for a milder version? Leave them out entirely and it’ll still be delicious.

Lastly, this stir-fry is super versatile. You can serve it over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. It’s also easy to double the batch and use the leftovers for lunch the next day, because yes—it reheats beautifully.

Health Benefits of this Beef and cabbage stir-fry

This dish isn’t just about flavor—it’s also packed with nutrients that your body will thank you for. From the lean ground beef to the fiber-rich cabbage and antioxidant-rich garlic and ginger, every bite offers something good for your health.

Let’s start with the cabbage. Often overlooked, cabbage is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s high in fiber, low in calories, and rich in vitamins C and K. It’s also great for digestion, thanks to its water content and natural prebiotics that help support a healthy gut. Whether you use green or purple cabbage, you’re getting antioxidants and phytonutrients that support overall health.

Ground beef, when used in moderation and sourced well, is a great source of high-quality protein. It contains important nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, all of which play vital roles in energy production, immune support, and brain health. To keep things on the lighter side, you can always opt for leaner cuts or use grass-fed beef for extra omega-3s and CLA (a type of healthy fat).

Garlic and ginger are more than just flavor boosters—they’re both powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting ingredients. Garlic is known for its heart-healthy compounds and antimicrobial properties, while ginger can help soothe digestive discomfort and reduce inflammation in the body.

The use of tamari (or coconut aminos if you’re avoiding soy) keeps the sauce gluten-free and adds deep umami flavor without extra additives. Olive oil, a heart-healthy fat, adds richness and helps carry the flavors throughout the dish.

Even though this dish tastes indulgent, it’s actually a well-balanced, nutrient-dense option that fits into a variety of eating plans—from gluten-free to low-carb and high-protein diets.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

This recipe is designed to be quick and convenient, which makes it a go-to option for weeknight dinners or last-minute meal preps. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in terms of time, portions, and nutrition.

Total Time
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total: 20 minutes

Servings
Serves 2 generously as a main dish or 3–4 as a side.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 2 Servings)
Calories: 380
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 5g
Sodium: 700mg (based on tamari; adjust if using low-sodium)

This dish is a great source of protein and fiber while staying relatively low in carbs. It’s naturally gluten-free if you use tamari or coconut aminos and can easily fit into a low-carb or keto-friendly lifestyle. You’re also getting antioxidants, healthy fats, and a great mix of macronutrients that will keep you full and energized.

Ingredients List of this Beef and cabbage stir-fry

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful, spicy beef and cabbage stir-fry. The list is short, sweet, and full of pantry staples.

Cabbage – 3 cups, chopped
You can use either green or purple cabbage, depending on what you have. Green cabbage is sweeter and more tender when cooked, while purple cabbage adds a slightly earthier flavor and a beautiful pop of color.

Ground Beef – 250g (about 8 oz)
Look for lean or extra lean ground beef to keep things light. If you prefer, you can also swap this out for ground turkey or chicken.

Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Garlic brings in that rich, pungent flavor that forms the base of the stir-fry. You’ll use it in two stages to layer the flavor.

Tamari Sauce – 2 tablespoons
Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative with a deep, savory taste. You can substitute coconut aminos or regular soy sauce if needed.

Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
Used to sauté and coat the ingredients. You can also use avocado oil or sesame oil for added flavor.

Chili Flakes – 1½ teaspoons (optional)
These bring the heat! Adjust to your personal spice preference, or omit if you prefer a milder dish.

Fresh Ginger – 1 teaspoon, minced
Ginger adds a bright, zesty punch that complements the richness of the beef. Fresh is best, but you can use ½ teaspoon of ground ginger in a pinch.

Toasted Sesame Seeds – for garnish
These add a lovely nutty flavor and a bit of crunch on top. Toasting the sesame seeds brings out their natural oils and makes a huge difference.

Optional Add-ins: shredded carrots, chopped scallions, or a dash of lime juice at the end can brighten things up and add even more flavor and texture.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking this dish is a breeze, but following the steps in order will help you layer the flavors and get the perfect texture. Here’s a full breakdown of how to make it.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you even turn on the stove, get everything chopped and ready. This dish cooks fast, so having your ingredients prepped ahead of time is key.

• Chop 3 cups of cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
• Mince the garlic and ginger.
• Measure out your tamari, olive oil, and chili flakes.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Place a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pan along with a splash of water—this helps it cook evenly without sticking or drying out.

Cover and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon or spatula as it browns. You’re looking for mostly cooked-through beef with a bit of browning on the edges.

If there’s excess fat in the pan, you can drain a little off, but leave enough to keep everything moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Add the First Layer of Flavor
Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped cabbage, one minced garlic clove, 1 tablespoon of tamari, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and the chili flakes (if using).

Stir everything together, then cover the pan and let it cook for about 3 minutes. This allows the cabbage to soften slightly while soaking up the beefy, garlicky flavors.

Step 4: Build More Depth
Now it’s time to add the remaining layers of flavor. Stir in the rest of the garlic, the fresh ginger, the remaining tablespoon of tamari, and the final tablespoon of olive oil.

Uncover the pan and continue to cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let the liquid reduce slightly, and cook until the cabbage is tender but still has a bit of bite and the beef is deeply flavored and browned.

You’ll know it’s done when the liquid has mostly evaporated and everything is coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. If you’re using any extra toppings like scallions or lime juice, add them now for a fresh finish.

Serve immediately while everything is hot and fragrant.

How to Serve

This dish is incredibly flexible and can be served in a variety of ways depending on what you’re in the mood for.

• Over Rice: Classic and comforting. White rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice all work beautifully.
• With Noodles: Toss it with rice noodles or soba for a satisfying noodle bowl.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, low-carb option, spoon the mixture into large lettuce leaves and eat it like a wrap.
• On Its Own: Honestly, it’s so flavorful that it doesn’t need anything else. Just grab a fork and dig in.

Continue reading for pairing ideas, storage tips, and much more in the sections ahead. We’re just getting started!

Pairing Suggestions

Even though this spicy ground beef and cabbage stir-fry can easily stand on its own as a complete meal, pairing it with the right sides or beverages can elevate the experience even more. Whether you’re trying to stretch the meal for more servings or just want to round it out, here are a few delicious ideas to complement the bold, savory flavors of this dish.

Pair with Grains for a Hearty Meal
Pairing this stir-fry with grains is an easy way to make it even more filling. A warm bed of jasmine or basmati rice brings a soft, slightly fragrant contrast to the bold, spicy flavors. Brown rice adds a chewy, nutty element and boosts the fiber content, which is great if you’re aiming for a more wholesome meal. If you’re cutting carbs, cauliflower rice or quinoa can offer a lighter but still satisfying base.

Noodles for Comfort
For a cozy, slurp-worthy meal, try serving the beef and cabbage mixture over cooked rice noodles, soba noodles, or even ramen noodles. The savory tamari and garlic sauce soaks into the noodles beautifully, making each bite extra flavorful. You can even drizzle a touch of sesame oil over the top for more depth.

Add a Crisp Salad or Fresh Side
Balance out the richness of the dish with something light and crisp. A simple cucumber salad with vinegar and sesame oil or a shredded carrot and daikon slaw works well. You could also serve it with a fresh green salad tossed in lemon juice and olive oil to add brightness to the meal.

Soup Pairings for a Warm Combo
If you’re serving this for a larger group or want to add variety to the table, a bowl of miso soup or egg drop soup makes a great pairing. These soups are light and won’t compete with the boldness of the main dish, but instead provide a gentle, comforting start to the meal.

Beverages That Work Well
To complement the spice and umami in this dish, try pairing it with something refreshing. A cool glass of sparkling water with lemon or lime is simple and perfect. Unsweetened iced green tea adds a subtle bitterness that contrasts nicely with the richness of the beef. If you’re in the mood for something special, a citrus-based mocktail—like a ginger-lemon spritzer or cucumber mint cooler—would be delightful and refreshing.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it stores and reheats. It’s an excellent candidate for meal prep, and the leftovers are just as delicious—sometimes even better—as the flavors have more time to mingle.

Refrigerator Storage
To store leftovers, let the stir-fry cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store it in a shallow container if possible, as this helps it cool more quickly and safely.

Freezing Instructions
If you want to make a big batch and freeze some for later, that works beautifully. After the dish has cooled completely, transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

To prevent the cabbage from getting too soft, it’s best to freeze the mixture soon after cooking. If you’re concerned about texture, slightly undercook the cabbage before freezing—this way it won’t get mushy when you reheat it.

How to Reheat
Reheating is quick and easy:

• On the stove: Add the stir-fry to a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5–7 minutes.
• In the microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat on high for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• From frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat using one of the methods above. If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat from frozen in a covered skillet over low heat, but it will take longer.

When reheating, keep an eye on the moisture level—adding a little liquid helps prevent drying out and revives that glossy, saucy texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes like this one can go sideways if a few key details are overlooked. Here are some of the most common pitfalls people encounter with stir-fried dishes like this—and how to avoid them.

Overcooking the Cabbage
Cabbage cooks quickly, and if it’s cooked for too long, it can become mushy and lose its fresh flavor. For this recipe, you want the cabbage to be tender but still have a slight bite. To achieve this, make sure to follow the suggested cook times and don’t over-stir during the last few minutes of cooking. If you prefer your cabbage extra tender, add an extra minute or two—but check frequently.

Using Too Much Liquid
Stir-fries should be saucy but not soupy. Adding too much tamari or not letting the liquid reduce can result in a soggy dish with diluted flavor. Make sure to uncover the pan during the final few minutes to allow the excess moisture to cook off and the sauce to concentrate.

Skipping the Garlic and Ginger Layers
Garlic and ginger add layers of flavor, but when added all at once, their impact gets lost. This recipe divides the garlic between two steps, which lets you build a more complex and aromatic base. Make sure not to skip that part—it really elevates the dish.

Not Toasting the Sesame Seeds
Toasted sesame seeds might seem like a minor garnish, but they bring a nutty, rich depth that makes a noticeable difference. If you’re using raw sesame seeds, take a moment to toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant.

Cooking the Beef on Too High or Too Low Heat
You want a nice sizzle when the beef hits the pan, but not so hot that it burns. Medium-high heat is the sweet spot. Too low, and the meat will steam instead of sear, leading to a gray, rubbery texture. Too high, and the meat might burn before it’s cooked through.

Pro Tips

Every recipe has its little tricks, and these are the ones that will take your beef and cabbage stir-fry from good to great. These pro tips are gathered from lots of trial and error—and they really do make a difference.

Tip 1: Cut the Cabbage Evenly
To ensure the cabbage cooks evenly, chop it into uniform pieces. If some pieces are too thick and others too thin, you’ll end up with a mix of undercooked and overcooked bits. Aim for medium-sized, bite-friendly pieces.

Tip 2: Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger for Maximum Flavor
Pre-minced garlic or ginger from a jar is convenient, but the fresh stuff makes a huge impact here. Freshly minced garlic and ginger provide a brighter, more aromatic flavor that really shines in a dish like this.

Tip 3: Let the Sauce Reduce Naturally
Don’t rush the reduction process by cranking up the heat. Letting the sauce reduce slowly while stirring occasionally allows the flavors to intensify without burning the aromatics or drying out the meat.

Tip 4: Rest the Stir-Fry Before Serving
Once the cooking is done, let the dish rest in the pan (off heat) for 2–3 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and meld together. Plus, it keeps the cabbage from getting soggy from residual steam.

Tip 5: Garnish Right Before Serving
Toasted sesame seeds and optional toppings like green onions or lime juice are best added at the very end. This keeps them fresh and vibrant, providing a contrast in flavor and texture that enhances the whole dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! You can swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat, crumbled tofu, or even chopped mushrooms and lentils. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the protein you use, and season well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it can be gluten-free if you use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce. Always check the labels on your sauces to confirm there are no hidden gluten-containing ingredients.

What kind of cabbage works best?
Both green and purple cabbage work well. Green cabbage is milder and gets slightly sweet when cooked, while purple cabbage adds color and a slightly earthier flavor. You can even use Napa or Savoy cabbage for a more delicate texture.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to toss in shredded carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly so everything stays crisp and colorful.

How can I make it spicier?
If you love heat, add extra chili flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even some finely chopped fresh chili pepper. A drizzle of chili oil at the end is also a great option.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just make sure to add a little extra oil to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

What should I do if the stir-fry is too salty?
If your final dish ends up too salty, stir in a bit of unsalted cooked rice or steamed veggies to dilute the saltiness. A squeeze of lemon or lime can also help balance out the flavors.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. This stir-fry stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option. Store individual portions in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.

Can I double the Beef and cabbage stir-fry recipe?
Yes, just be sure to use a large enough skillet or cook in two batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of browning.

Do I need to drain the beef?
If your ground beef has a lot of fat, you may want to drain some off after browning. However, a little fat left in the pan helps carry the flavor and keeps the dish moist.

Conclusion & Call to Action

And just like that, you’ve got a warm, spicy, ultra-satisfying meal on the table in under 30 minutes. This ground beef and cabbage stir-fry is the kind of recipe that will quickly earn its place in your regular rotation. It’s quick, affordable, packed with flavor, and adaptable enough to suit just about any taste or dietary need.

Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or prepping your meals for the week, this dish makes it easy to stay on track without sacrificing satisfaction. The combination of garlicky beef, crisp-tender cabbage, and the punchy sauce creates a meal that feels indulgent but is full of goodness.

I’d love for you to try this recipe and make it your own. Maybe you’ll add carrots, top it with scallions, or dial up the heat. However you make it, don’t forget to take a photo and share it with friends or tag me on social media—I absolutely love seeing your kitchen wins and how you put your own spin on my favorite recipes.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. You’ve totally got this—and your taste buds are going to thank you.

Print