Savory Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To save even more time, keep a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix in the refrigerator. It is a perfect, time-saving substitute for manually shredding cabbage and carrots, and it works exactly the same in this stir fry.

This simple trick can shave several minutes off your prep time, making this a truly effortless meal for those days when you are rushing to get dinner on the table.

If you find that the beef is releasing too much liquid, simply increase the heat to high and let it evaporate before adding the vegetables. High heat is the secret to a good stir fry, so do not be afraid to turn the dial up.

If you are using a non-stick skillet, ensure you are using a silicone spatula to avoid scratching the surface while you toss the ingredients.

Variations

• Spicy Beef Stir Fry: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the final stage of cooking to give the dish a pleasant, warming kick.
• Ginger Beef Stir Fry: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger along with the beef at the start of cooking to add a bright, aromatic punch that complements the savory beef.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until steaming hot throughout, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the mixture.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Cool the food for no more than two hours at room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator.

When stored properly, this stir fry will remain fresh for up to three days. Avoid leaving the dish out on the counter for extended periods, as this can affect both the texture and the safety of the meat.

You can prep the vegetables and store them in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance. Keep the shredded cabbage and carrots in a sealed bag or container to keep them crisp.

When you are ready to cook, simply grab your prepped ingredients and proceed with the recipe as written. This makes the cooking process nearly instantaneous, perfect for a busy weekday evening.

Serving ideas

Serve this stir fry immediately while it is piping hot. It pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed white rice or quinoa, which helps soak up the savory juices. If you prefer a lighter meal, you can serve it over a bed of fresh greens or enjoy it on its own as a low-fuss dinner.

For an extra touch, consider topping each serving with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. These small additions provide an extra layer of nutty aroma and visual appeal. Place the serving dishes on the table and let everyone serve themselves directly from the skillet to keep the meal casual and fun.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Savory Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Prep 10 minCook 15 minTotal 25 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 3 stalks scallions, sliced

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is fully browned and no longer pink.
2. Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir fry the vegetables for 3 to 5 minutes until they are tender yet still slightly crisp.
3. Stir in the sliced scallions just before removing from the heat. Serve immediately while hot.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

280

Protein

22 g

Carbohydrates

10 g

Fat

18 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

4 g

Sodium

150 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.