Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage has become my weeknights lifeline. As a chef, I build AllensRecipes around fast, flavorful meals. I know how a busy day derails dinner plans. This one-pan wonder keeps carbs in check while delivering bold, sesame-kissed flavor. Ground beef browns quickly, cabbage stays crisp, and a glossy glaze comes together fast. It’s the kind of dish that forgives a crowded schedule. It still feels special for a family dinner or meal-prep win. If you need easy weeknight wins, this is your kitchen MVP. I’ll show you how pantry staples become a crowd-pleasing supper. Fresh flavors come together in minutes, without fuss. The glaze glistens thanks to coconut aminos and a touch of rice vinegar. Leftovers chill beautifully for lunch or a ready-to-reheat dinner. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s weeknight magic in plain sight.
Table of Contents
What makes this Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage Special
Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage is more than a quick skillet. I reach for it when the clock ticks fast and taste matters. This one-pan dinner hits a comfort note with sesame glaze and sweetness. Ground beef browns in minutes, cabbage stays crisp, and dinner comes together fast. It fits busy weeknights, yet it tastes like a treat. I love how pantry staples become a crowd-pleasing supper in minutes. Fresh flavors come together in minutes, without fuss. This glaze glistens thanks to coconut aminos and a splash of rice vinegar. Leftovers shine for lunch or a ready-to-reheat dinner.
Why Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage Works for Busy Families
Because it’s a one-pan miracle, it saves time without sacrificing flavor. I brown the beef, soften the cabbage, and whisk the glaze in one skillet. Dinner lands on the table in about 25 minutes, giving you breathing room. Flavor is family-friendly, with sesame aroma and a gentle sweetness. It’s gluten-free and adaptable to Halal or other dietary needs. Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage makes weeknights feel doable.
Chef-Approved Flavor, Weeknight Ready
Bold Asian-inspired flavors can feel indulgent, yet this stays weeknight friendly. I rely on a glossy glaze from coconut aminos and rice vinegar. A whisper of monk fruit balances tang without a sugar spike. Garlic and ginger wake up every bite for a lively finish. Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage proves you can eat well fast.
Ingredients Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
I keep a simple lineup for this skillet: lean ground beef, crisp cabbage, and a glossy, sesame-kissed glaze. Here are the exact measurements I rely on for a perfect, family-friendly sauce. The bottom of the article holds the printable quantities for your notes and grocery list.
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp gluten-free soy sauce alternative
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp monk fruit sweetener or sugar-free maple syrup
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
Notes: If you don’t have coconut aminos, you can swap in a gluten-free soy sauce blend or tamari. For a milder glaze, reduce the sweetener or omit salt if your soy alternative is seasoned. Exact quantities are print-ready at the bottom.

Core ingredients and pantry staples to trust in Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
Ground beef provides protein and browning magic; cabbage keeps the dish light and crisp. Garlic and ginger wake the pan, while green onions add brightness. Sesame oil gives that toasty aroma, and the glaze relies on coconut aminos with a splash of rice vinegar for shine. This core lineup keeps weeknights simple and adaptable to gluten-free and Halal needs.
How to Make Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
I love how this Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage lands on the table fast and full of flavor. It’s a one-pan weeknight winner I reach for after long days in the kitchen. You get a glossy sesame glaze, crisp cabbage, and a comforting balance of sweet and savory.
Step 1 – Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: Brown the beef
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet, your trusty one-pan stage, over medium heat. I let the oil shimmer before adding the beef. Break it up with a spoon and brown it deeply, about 6–8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, tilt the pan and spoon it out. I like to pat the meat dry for crisper edges. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 2 – Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: Sauté aromatics
Push the beef to the side and swirl in minced garlic, ginger, and half the green onions. I cook 1–2 minutes until the aroma blooms and the garlic turns glossy. Stir often so the flavors mingle with the beef. Don’t let the garlic burn; it’s the flavor backbone.
Step 3 – Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: Add cabbage
Add the cabbage and toss to coat with the aromatics. Cook 4–5 minutes, until it’s softened but still crisp. I love that bright pop of texture that keeps the dish lively. If you like it softer, give it another minute, then taste and adjust.
Step 4 – Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: Make the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk coconut aminos, gluten-free soy sauce alternative, rice vinegar, and monk fruit sweetener. Pour it over the beef and cabbage, then stir to coat. Simmer 2–3 minutes until the glaze shines and coats every piece.
Step 5 – Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: Simmer, finish, and serve
Simmer, finish, and serve: return the pan to medium heat and cook 3–4 minutes more to meld. Taste for salt and heat; add pepper flakes if desired. Finish with sesame seeds and a quick garnish of extra green onions. Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed greens.

Tips for Success with Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
- Pat dry beef and preheat skillet for a crisp sear.
- Prep garlic, ginger, and green onions so aromatics bloom fast.
- Taste as you go; coconut aminos may provide salt, adjust gradually.
- Keep the glaze simple and use one pan to cut cleanup.
Quick flavor boosts for the glaze — Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
For extra shine, a tiny drizzle of sesame oil at the end helps coat every bite. A pinch of chili flakes adds warmth without overdoing it. Optional splash of rice vinegar brightens the glaze.
Balanced salt and sweetness — Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
Start light and taste often. If coconut aminos are salty, cut salt entirely. Use monk fruit and a drop of sugar-free maple for gentle sweetness that keeps the glaze glossy, not cloying.
Equipment Needed
- 12-inch skillet or sauté pan (alternative: Dutch oven or wide wok)
- Spatula and wooden spoon for turning
- Sharp knife and cutting board for garlic, ginger, and cabbage
- Measuring spoons and a liquid measuring cup
- Mixing bowl and whisk for the sauce
- Tongs for easy turning
- Oven mitts for safety too
Variations
- Turn it into handy lettuce wraps: spoon the glossy Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage into crisp lettuce leaves for a light, hand-held meal.
- Protein swap: use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version while keeping the glaze bold and the flavors bright.
- Veggie booster: toss in sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas for extra color and texture without tipping the carb count.
- Spice level: kick it up with extra crushed red pepper, chili paste, or fresh jalapeño slices for those who like heat.
- Carb-smart sides: serve over cauli-rice or zucchini noodles to keep the meal low-carb and filling.
- Gluten-free and Halal-friendly: use gluten-free coconut aminos and halal-certified beef; this variation stays true to dietary needs.
- Make-ahead option: refrigerate leftovers in meal-prep containers up to 3–4 days, or freeze for longer storage; reheat in a skillet for best texture.
- Finish without dairy: omit sesame seeds if needed, or swap with crushed red pepper for a different finishing touch; the glaze remains delicious without dairy.
Why You’ll Love This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
I reach for Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage on busy weeknights. It’s fast, forgiving, and full of bold sesame-y flavor. One pan does the heavy lifting, so cleanup feels like a breeze.
I can assemble the glaze in minutes, then dinner glistens on the table. Plus, it fits gluten-free and Halal needs while pleasing picky eaters. It makes weeknights feel doable, even when energy is running low.

Serving Suggestions for Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
- Serve over cauli-rice or zucchini noodles for a complete low-carb plate.
- Garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds for crunch and color.
- Pair with a crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar.
- Offer a light sesame-ginger cucumber water or cold green tea.
- Plate family-style with a bright veggie side.
Practical Make-Ahead Ideas to Extend Your Week with Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
I plan ahead so weeknights glide by.
When I batch prep, this Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage shines.
It turns a chaotic evening into dinner without drama.
Batch-cook the beef in advance and portion it for several meals.
I keep a jar of the glaze ready for quick finishing touches.
Reheat in a skillet to preserve texture and shine.
Chop cabbage, garlic, and green onions ahead of time and store them well.
I layer aromatics in their own containers so they stay fresh.
This reduces prep time when you’re sprinting from work to dinner.
Whisk the sauce components and chill them in a bottle or jar.
I pour over warm beef and cabbage when I’m ready to finish.
A quick simmer brings back the glossy glaze.
Plan a rotating side dish like cauli-rice or greens to complete the plate.
I use leftovers for a fast lunch or a next-day stir-fry remix.
The trick is to build momentum, not stress.
For longer storage, I freeze the cooked beef and glaze in meal-sized portions.
Then I thaw in the fridge overnight and finish with fresh cabbage.
Reheat gently on the stove to keep texture bright.
FAQs
Is Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage truly low-carb?
Yes. Each serving has about 7 g of carbohydrates with 3 g of fiber, making net carbs around 4 g per serving. The cabbage and the glaze ingredients keep carbs in check without skimping on flavor. This fits a low-carb weeknight plan nicely.
When you’re tracking carbs, remember the glaze is the main contributor. If needed, reduce the monk fruit sweetener a touch or swap in a sugar-free maple for a gentler sweetness.
Can I freeze Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage or prepare it in advance?
Absolutely. Freeze the cooked beef and glaze in meal-sized portions for fast reheats. Cabbage can get soft after freezing, so I recommend freezing the meat separately and adding fresh cabbage when you reheat.
Thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet with a splash of water to revive the glaze and texture. This keeps weeknights stress-free.
Are there suitable substitutions for coconut aminos or gluten-free soy sauce in Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage?
Yes. Use tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute. Coconut aminos are milder and a touch sweeter, while tamari is saltier. Start with the same amount and adjust salt to taste.
For dairy-free cooks, these swaps keep the glaze flavorful without altering texture.
How can I adjust for spice or heat level in Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage?
Tweak with extra crushed red pepper, chili paste, or thin-sliced jalapeño. To dial it down, skip the heat altogether. Taste as you go to match your family’s preferred spice level.
Is Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage Halal-friendly and gluten-free as written?
Yes, provided you use halal-certified beef and gluten-free coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Always check labeling to ensure halal and gluten-free certifications on the brands you choose.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this dish reminds me why I love home cooking, even on chaotic weeknights.
Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage keeps carbs low while delivering glossy, sesame-kissed flavor.
I hope this easy one-pan dinner saves time, feeds a family, and earns you a smile.
Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage Is Easy 4-Serv.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: Savory, slightly sweet, and bursting with bold Asian-inspired flavors, this fast one-pan dinner is perfect for busy weeknights. Tender ground beef, crisp cabbage, garlic and fresh ginger come together in a glossy sesame-soy glaze for a satisfying, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp soy sauce alternative (gluten free, halal-friendly)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp monk fruit sweetener or sugar-free maple syrup
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in garlic, ginger, and green onions. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add cabbage and cook until softened but still slightly crisp, about 4–5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix coconut aminos, soy sauce alternative, rice vinegar, and sweetener.
- Pour sauce over the beef and cabbage, stirring to coat evenly.
- Simmer for 3–4 minutes until flavors meld. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- Optional red pepper flakes add heat if desired.
- This dish is gluten-free; using gluten-free coconut aminos and soy sauce alternative keeps it suitable for gluten-free and Halal diets when beef is halal-certified.
- Leftovers refrigerate well for 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or a skillet.
- For a milder sauce, reduce the coconut aminos or omit the extra salt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mongolian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage, Mongolian beef with cabbage, gluten-free Mongolian beef, weeknight dinner, one-pan recipe