This Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage dish is everything a weeknight dinner should be: easy, wholesome, and bursting with umami-rich flavor. Lean ground beef is stir-fried with tender cabbage in a savory-sweet garlic soy sauce, offering a low-carb meal that still satisfies your craving for takeout.

Packed with veggies and protein, this one-skillet wonder is perfect when you’re short on time but need something nourishing. It’s great served over rice, tucked into lettuce cups, or simply eaten straight from the bowl. Plus, it reheats like a dream, making it a smart choice for meal prep.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For a healthier version, go with lean or extra-lean ground beef (90% lean or higher). It gives you all the richness of beef without the excess fat. If you’re not into beef, ground turkey or chicken also work beautifully in this recipe.

Ingredients for the Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage

Ground Beef – Lean ground beef brings hearty flavor and protein to the dish while keeping it light.

Green Cabbage – This veggie soaks up all the savory sauce and adds volume without heaviness.

Garlic – Essential for building deep, aromatic flavor.

Soy Sauce – The base of the stir-fry sauce; use low-sodium for a healthier option.

Sesame Oil – Adds nutty aroma and authenticity to the dish.

Ginger – Brightens the flavor with just a hint of heat.

Rice Vinegar – A touch of acid that balances the richness.

Green Onions – For garnish and a pop of fresh, zesty contrast.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Bring the heat if you love a little spice.

How To Make the Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once the beef is browned, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in Cabbage

Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir and cook for 5–7 minutes, until the cabbage softens but still has a slight crunch.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour this mixture over the beef and cabbage, stirring to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Cook for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes if using.

Serving and Storing Your Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage

This dish is ultra-versatile. Serve it over steamed jasmine or brown rice, tuck it into lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist, or pile it into meal prep containers for the week ahead.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu or tempeh, and use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

What type of cabbage works best?

Green cabbage is the classic choice, but napa or savoy cabbage also work well and cook a bit faster.

How spicy is it?

The base recipe isn’t spicy at all. Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil if you want heat.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, but the texture of the cabbage may soften more once thawed. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Shredded carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms would make great additions.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving this healthy skillet meal, here are a few more satisfying dinner options to try next:

Tender Beef Bao Buns for a fluffy, flavor-packed handheld.
Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini for something indulgent.
Teriyaki Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Veggies for a fusion of sweet, savory, and hearty.
Garlic Butter Beef Linguine in Creamy Parmesan Sauce for pasta lovers.

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Tried it? Let me know in the comments how it turned out! Did you go for the spice or keep it mild? Maybe added a few extra veggies?

I love hearing how you all customize these dishes. Got a question? Drop it below—let’s help each other cook better, one skillet at a time!

Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Description

This quick and healthy ground beef cabbage stir-fry is packed with flavor and makes a perfect weeknight dinner. It’s low-carb, high-protein, and completely satisfying thanks to a savory garlic soy sauce that ties it all together. Serve it on its own, over rice, or in lettuce wraps.

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)

1/2 head green cabbage, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked.
Add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes, until slightly tender.
Mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Pour over the beef and cabbage.
Stir everything to coat evenly and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and red pepper flakes if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner