Print

Budget-Friendly Big-Batch Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe for Easy Family Meals

ground beef and cabbage stir-fry - featured image
Print Recipe

An easy, budget-friendly ground beef and cabbage stir-fry that is quick to prepare, filling, and perfect for family meals or meal prep. This recipe uses simple pantry staples and fresh produce to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 medium head green cabbage (about 3 pounds), thinly sliced
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • ⅓ cup soy sauce (about 2.7 fl oz)
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Thinly slice the cabbage into bite-sized strips, finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger.
  2. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Warm for about 1 minute until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and onions start to soften.
  5. Add the sliced cabbage and stir well to combine. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until cabbage is tender but still slightly crunchy. Add a tablespoon of water if the pan looks dry to help steam the cabbage.
  6. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes to let flavors meld. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  7. Remove from heat and drizzle toasted sesame oil over the stir-fry. Stir gently to combine.
  8. Serve hot, paired with steamed rice, noodles, or your preferred side.

Notes

Use fresh cabbage for best texture. Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking beef for better browning. You can prep vegetables the night before to save time. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as leaner alternatives. Leftovers reheat well and taste better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef stir-fry, cabbage stir-fry, budget-friendly dinner, easy family meals, quick stir-fry, big batch recipe

Find it online: https://freshforkful.com/budget-friendly-big-batch-ground-beef-and-cabbage-stir-fry-recipe-for-easy-family-meals/