Prep Time: ~10 minutes | Cook Time: ~15 minutes | Total Time: ~25 minutes | Yield: ~4 servings
Introduction
Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef & Cabbage is a quick and flavorful one-pan dinner that swaps rice or noodles for tender cabbage, keeping carbs low without sacrificing taste. Savory ground beef is coated in a rich Mongolian-style sauce and cooked with crisp-tender cabbage for a satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Bold Asian-inspired flavors with minimal carbs
- One skillet — easy cleanup
- Tender cabbage absorbs savory sauce
- Perfect for weeknights or meal prep
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, minced (or 1 tsp dried ginger)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2–3 Tbsp low-carb sweetener (such as erythritol or monk fruit)
- 1–2 Tbsp sesame oil or neutral cooking oil
- 2–3 green onions, sliced
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat
Flavor Profile
This dish blends savory, sweet, and umami notes. The soy-based sauce with ginger and a touch of sweetness gives the beef a rich, bold flavor that soaks into the cabbage. Green onions and sesame seeds add freshness and a bit of texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add Aromatics
Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the beef and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (or coconut aminos), low-carb sweetener, and sesame oil.
4. Add Cabbage & Sauce
Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the top and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Cook Until Tender
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage has wilted and is tender but still has some bite, about 6–8 minutes.
6. Finish & Season
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or optional heat like red pepper flakes or sriracha.
7. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle sliced green onions and optional sesame seeds over the top before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- Slice the cabbage thinly so it cooks quickly and evenly.
- Adjust sweetness to your preference with the low-carb sweetener.
- Add a little water or broth if the pan gets too dry while cooking.
- For extra heat, add sriracha, chili flakes, or fresh chili slices.
How to Serve
Serve warm straight from the skillet. This dish pairs well with cauliflower rice, steamed veggies, or on its own as a hearty, low-carb dinner.
Storage & Freshness
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet until warmed through.
Conclusion
Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef & Cabbage is a savory, satisfying meal with bold flavors and low carbs — easy to make and perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep!
