Crisp-tender cabbage mingles with savory ground beef in this quick and satisfying skillet dinner. The Mongolian-inspired sauce, a symphony of savory, slightly sweet, and tangy notes, clings beautifully to every bite. It’s a flavor explosion that belies its simplicity.
This Savory Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet works so well because the cabbage provides a delightful textural contrast to the ground beef. The sauce, a carefully balanced blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger, elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Serve it on a busy weeknight for a comforting and wholesome meal.
Why you’ll love this Savory Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet with Low Carb Mongolian Beef
- It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- It’s a one-pan meal, which means easy cleanup!
- This recipe is naturally low-carb, making it a healthy and satisfying option.
- The savory Mongolian-inspired sauce is packed with flavor and incredibly delicious.
- It’s a great way to sneak in extra vegetables without sacrificing taste.
- The simple ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store.
Ingredients & Substitutions

- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head of cabbage, shredded
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons erythritol or sweetener of choice
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – adjust to your spice preference!
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
How to make Savory Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Low carb mongolian beef makes every moment feel indulgent. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion, and cook until beef is browned and onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Cabbage
Stir in shredded cabbage and cook until it begins to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), erythritol, rice vinegar, ground ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Pour the sauce over the beef and cabbage mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook until the cabbage is tender-crisp and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If necessary, cook the beef in batches to ensure proper browning.
- Adjust the amount of sweetener to your liking. Taste the sauce before adding it to the skillet and adjust accordingly.
- Use a mandoline or food processor for quick and even cabbage shredding.
- For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of sesame oil at the end of cooking. Many other Asian-inspired bowls like these chicken tzatziki bowls use similar techniques to deliver an amazing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal.
- Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus.
- Garnish with extra red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe includes a small amount of red pepper flakes, which adds a mild kick. You can omit them entirely or add more to adjust the spice level to your preference.
Can I use a different type of sweetener?
Yes, you can use any sweetener you prefer, such as honey, maple syrup, or stevia. Keep in mind that using a liquid sweetener may affect the consistency of the sauce.
This Savory Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender beef, crisp cabbage, and a delightful sauce makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you are a fan of trying new recipes, you might find garlic parmesan focaccia recipe just as interesting. Let me know what you think in the comments below!

Savory Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet
Craving a quick, flavorful, and healthy weeknight dinner? This low-carb Mongolian ground beef and cabbage skillet is your answer! Tender ground beef and crisp-tender cabbage are coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that’s incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. Ready in under 35 minutes, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prepping. The dish features savory ground beef mingled with tender cabbage, all bathed in a rich and flavorful Mongolian-inspired sauce, delivering a delightful culinary experience.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head of cabbage, shredded
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons erythritol or sweetener of choice
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion, and cook until beef is browned and onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in shredded cabbage and cook until it begins to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), erythritol, rice vinegar, ground ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Pour the sauce over the beef and cabbage mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook until the cabbage is tender-crisp and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, try adding a splash of sesame oil at the end of cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish can also be served over cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
