This sizzling Mongolian-style ground beef is a fast, comforting dish made for busy days when you still want something deeply flavorful. Juicy ground beef, tender-crisp cabbage, and aromatic garlic come together in a glossy soy sauce glaze that coats every bite. It’s satisfying, hearty, and comes together quickly using simple pantry staples.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick and efficient, making it ideal for weeknight cooking when time is limited. Everything is prepared in one pan, which keeps cleanup minimal. The balance of savory, slightly sweet, and garlicky flavors makes it appealing to both adults and kids. It’s also easy to customize with different vegetables or proteins while keeping the core flavors intact.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound ground beef
4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 green onions, chopped, for garnish
Directions
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to slightly thicken.
Add the sliced cabbage and toss to combine with the beef and sauce. Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time is approximately 10 minutes.
Cook time is about 20 minutes.
Total time from start to finish is around 30 minutes.
Variations
You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or ground turkey for a lighter option.
Add shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
For a slightly sweeter glaze, increase the brown sugar to 3 tablespoons.
Use Napa cabbage instead of green cabbage for a softer texture.
For more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of ground chili.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway for even heating.
The cabbage may soften slightly after reheating, but the flavor remains rich and savory.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it can be cooked ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat just before serving for best flavor.
What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage works well, but Napa cabbage is also a good option if you prefer a more tender bite.
Can I reduce the saltiness?
Using low-sodium soy sauce helps control the salt level without sacrificing flavor.
Is this dish spicy?
It is mildly spicy only if red pepper flakes are added. You can omit them entirely for a mild dish.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Freezing is not recommended, as cabbage can become watery and lose texture once thawed.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with steamed rice or simple stir-fried vegetables.
Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground?
Yes, use 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger in place of ground ginger.
How do I keep the beef from becoming greasy?
Using lean ground beef and draining excess fat after browning helps keep the dish balanced.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger pan to avoid overcrowding.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well and makes a convenient lunch or dinner option for several days.
Conclusion
Sizzling Mongolian-Style Ground Beef with Savory Garlic Cabbage in Soy Sauce Glaze is a reliable, flavorful recipe that proves you don’t need complicated steps or ingredients to create a satisfying meal. With its rich sauce, tender beef, and crisp cabbage, it’s a dish you can turn to again and again when you want comfort, speed, and bold flavor all in one pan.
This sizzling Mongolian-style ground beef with garlic cabbage is a bold, savory one-pan dish featuring juicy ground beef, crisp-tender cabbage, and a glossy soy sauce glaze. Quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 green onions, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until onion softens and garlic is fragrant.
Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.
Add cabbage and toss to combine. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.
Notes
Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce saltiness.
Ground chicken or turkey can be substituted for a lighter version.
Add extra vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more color and crunch.
Reheats well for meal prep; cabbage will soften slightly over time.
