Easy Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing Recipe – Comforting Weeknight Dinner

Craving a hearty, healthy, and lightning-fast meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor? Say hello to your new go-to dinner: Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry. This recipe hits all the high notes—savory, satisfying, full of texture, and bursting with vibrant Asian flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or anytime you need something quick but nutritious.

You don’t need a wok or a restaurant kitchen to make this flavorful Chinese-inspired stir fry—just a skillet and a few simple, fresh ingredients. Even better? You can grab everything you need on Amazon at the best prices for quick weeknight cooking made easy.

Equipment (Shop on Amazon):

• Large non-stick skillet or wok – ideal for even stir-frying – Shop now

• Wooden spatula or heat-safe silicone spoon – great for browning beef – Grab it here

• Meal prep containers – perfect if you’re doubling the recipe – Check deals

Ingredients (Easy to order):

• Lean ground beef (90% lean or more) – flavorful and protein-rich – Buy here

• Soy sauce, rice vinegar & hoisin sauce – pantry staples for bold flavor – Get a 3-pack here

• Sesame oil, garlic, and ginger – essential for authentic taste – Shop essentials

• Cabbage and carrots – fresh produce or pre-shredded for convenience – Find prepped veggies

Why order takeout when you can whip this up in under 30 minutes?

Why This Recipe is a Weeknight Hero

Let’s be real—after a long day, the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. This stir fry is fast, simple, and requires just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet. Less mess, more deliciousness.

A Healthier Take on Chinese Favorites

If you’re trying to keep your meals light but still crave those bold takeout flavors, this recipe checks all the boxes. By using lean ground beef and skipping the heavy sauces, you get a dish that’s packed with protein and fiber without the extra calories or guilt.

Ingredients Breakdown

Lean Ground Beef – The Protein Powerhouse

This is where your flavor and satiety start. Opt for 90% lean or higher to keep it heart-healthy without sacrificing taste.

Cabbage – Crunchy, Low-Carb Goodness

Half a head of cabbage may not sound like much, but it transforms into a flavorful, tender base that adds fiber and bulk to the dish—making it both filling and good for digestion.

The Supporting Cast: Carrots, Garlic, Ginger & Green Onions

Carrots bring a pop of color and natural sweetness. Fresh garlic and ginger? Absolute non-negotiables. They’re the secret to that unmistakable Chinese-style flavor. And green onions finish it off with a fresh, peppery bite.

Flavor Enhancers: Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar, Hoisin Sauce

The sauce is what ties everything together. Low-sodium soy sauce keeps things salty without overdoing the sodium, while rice vinegar adds tang and depth. Hoisin sauce (if you choose to use it) adds a hint of sweetness that balances everything beautifully.

Nutritional Benefits

Low in Carbs, High in Flavor

Ditch the takeout noodles. This stir fry satisfies your cravings without the carb crash. It’s perfect for low-carb or keto lifestyles (just omit the hoisin).

Protein-Rich and Satisfying

With a whopping dose of protein from lean beef, this dish keeps you full longer—meaning no post-dinner snacking raids in the kitchen.

Loaded with Vitamins and Antioxidants

Carrots and cabbage bring the vitamins—especially vitamin A, C, and K. Ginger and garlic? They pack immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory goodness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Browning the Ground Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok. Once hot, toss in the beef. Break it apart with a spatula and let it cook until browned—about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease!

Step 2: Building the Flavor Base

Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger to the beef. Stir it all together and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Stir-Frying the Veggies

Next up, throw in 1/2 head of sliced green cabbage and 1 julienned carrot. Stir-fry for about 5–7 minutes, until the cabbage starts to soften but still has a bit of crunch. You want texture here—not mush.

Step 4: Bringing it All Together

Now, drizzle in 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (if using). Stir everything well so it’s evenly coated. Season with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.

Turn off the heat, garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and you’re done!

Tips for the Best Stir Fry

Use a Hot Pan for the Perfect Sear

A blazing hot skillet ensures your beef browns beautifully and the veggies retain their crunch.

Don’t Overcook the Cabbage

Soggy cabbage is a no-go. Stir-fry just until it’s wilted but still has some bite.

Customize Your Heat & Sweetness

Adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes or skip the hoisin sauce to cut down on sugar. You’re the boss here.

Variations and Additions

Keto Version Without Hoisin

Ditch the hoisin, maybe add a splash of coconut aminos or a pinch of monk fruit sweetener for a low-carb variation.

Add Mushrooms or Bell Peppers

Mushrooms bring umami, bell peppers bring crunch. It’s a win-win.

Try It with Ground Turkey or Chicken

Lighten things up even more by swapping out the beef for lean ground turkey or chicken.

What to Serve With This Stir Fry

Over Steamed Rice or Cauliflower Rice

White rice, brown rice, or low-carb cauliflower rice—take your pick.

As a Lettuce Wrap Filling

Scoop it into crisp lettuce leaves for a fun, hand-held dinner option.

With a Side of Egg Drop Soup

Pair it with a bowl of silky egg drop soup for a complete Chinese-style meal.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Meal Prep Friendly

Double the recipe and portion it into containers for easy weekday lunches.

Storing Leftovers Properly

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating Without Losing Texture

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid microwaving too long, or the cabbage can get mushy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using High-Fat Beef

Too much grease ruins the balance. Stick to lean ground beef.

Not Draining Excess Oil

Drain it, or your stir fry will be too heavy and greasy.

Skipping the Fresh Aromatics

Powdered garlic and ginger don’t come close to the flavor of the fresh stuff.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick, Budget-Friendly, and So Tasty

It’s a wallet-friendly meal that’s ready in 25 minutes. What’s not to love?

Healthy Enough for Daily Rotation

With clean ingredients and bold flavors, it’s the kind of dish you’ll actually want to eat again and again.

Conclusion

Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry is proof that eating clean doesn’t have to be boring. It’s bold, hearty, nutrient-dense, and loaded with irresistible textures and flavors. The best part? You only need one pan and 25 minutes to get it on the table. Whether you’re meal prepping or just need a fast dinner fix, this stir fry has your back.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Just swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat alternative.

Q2: How spicy is it?
It’s mild by default, but you can dial up the heat by adding more red pepper flakes.

Q3: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Let it cool, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Q4: Is it gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.

Q5: What other sauces can I use?
Oyster sauce, black bean sauce, or even a bit of chili garlic sauce can add a twist.

Print