There’s something utterly satisfying about the sizzle of ground beef mingling with vibrant vegetables in a hot pan, especially when the aroma of soy sauce and sesame oil fills the kitchen. I was searching for a quick, comforting meal after a long day when I stumbled upon this delightful Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe. Just when I thought I’d tried it all, this simple, one-pan wonder transformed my weeknight dinners.
In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a savory dish that’s not just bursting with Asian-inspired flavors, but also caters to various dietary needs—whether you’re going low-carb, gluten-free, or even vegetarian. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility: swap in your favorite proteins or add a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous. Get ready to savor every bite without the fuss, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to please the whole family!
Why is Egg Roll in a Bowl a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This one-pan meal is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy nights.
Rich Flavors: The savory blend of ground meat, fresh veggies, and aromatic spices creates a mouthwatering meal you’ll crave.
Versatile: Customize with your choice of protein, and explore vegetarian or keto alternatives that suit your dietary preferences.
Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect option for anyone looking to dodge endless fast food.
Healthy: Packed with fiber and protein, this dish is a smart choice without sacrificing taste.
For more delicious veggie-packed ideas, check out our guide on healthy one-pan meals!
Delicious Egg Roll in a Bowl Ingredients
For the Protein
• Lean Ground Beef (1 lb) – Provides the dish’s protein and savory flavor; substitute with ground chicken, turkey, or pork for variety.
For Sautéing
• Olive Oil (1 Tbsp) – Used for sautéing; can swap with sesame oil for additional flavor.
For Flavoring
• Sea Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances flavors; adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper (¼ tsp) – Adds spice; increase for more heat.
For Vegetables
• Onion, finely diced (½ medium) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; shallots can be a substitute.
• Carrot, julienned (1 medium) – Provides crunch and sweetness; use pre-packaged coleslaw mix for convenience.
• Garlic cloves, minced (3) – Contributes aromatic flavors; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Green Cabbage, thinly sliced (3 cups) – Main vegetable; offers crunch and fiber; substitute with purple cabbage for a color variation.
For Seasoning
• Ground Ginger (1 tsp) – Provides warmth and spiciness; fresh ginger can be used but adjust the quantity.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (¼ cup) – Adds umami flavor; coconut aminos can substitute for a low-carb option.
• Sesame Oil (2 tsp) – Adds nutty aroma and flavor; can replace with olive oil for a milder taste.
• Granulated Sugar (½ tsp) – Balances flavors; omit for strict low-carb diets.
For Garnishing
• Chopped Green Onion (1 Tbsp, optional) – Fresh garnish for added flavor and color.
• Sesame Seeds (¼ tsp, optional) – Decorative garnish with a slight nutty flavor.
How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl
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Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the lean ground beef and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring until it’s browned and no longer pink. Season it with sea salt and black pepper.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Next, stir in the finely diced onion and julienned carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent, and the carrots slightly tender.
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Add Garlic: Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring not to let it burn for the best flavor.
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Incorporate Cabbage and Seasoning: Mix in the thinly sliced cabbage, ground ginger, low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, and granulated sugar (if using). Sauté everything together for 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage is tender yet still retains a delightful crunch.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your egg roll in a bowl with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy this comforting meal!
Optional: Drizzle with sriracha for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Egg Roll in a Bowl ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables and brown the ground beef up to 3 days in advance, refrigerating them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce (soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar) and store it separately for maximum flavor retention. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat a skillet over medium-high, add the prepped beef and vegetables, incorporate the sauce, sauté until heated through, and enjoy a delicious, stress-free dinner in no time. This way, you’ll have a scrumptious, homemade meal with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
Egg Roll in a Bowl Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish, transforming it to fit your personal taste and dietary needs!
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Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or pork for a flavor twist. Each option lends its own unique taste that your family will love.
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Vegetarian Option: Use crumbled tofu or tempeh in place of meat for a satisfying vegetarian meal. This swap allows you to enjoy all those delicious egg roll flavors minus the meat!
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Keto-Friendly: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos and skip the sugar for a low-carb delight. Enjoy all the richness without compromising your dietary goals.
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Add Heat: Throw in red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to spice things up. This small adjustment can elevate your dish and create an exciting flavor profile.
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Crunchy Add-ins: Toss in water chestnuts or chopped bell peppers for an extra crunch. Both additions enhance texture and infuse delightful new flavors to the dish.
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Herb Boost: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil towards the end for a fragrant twist. A sprinkle of freshness adds brightness that transforms this bowl into something spectacular.
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Coleslaw Mix: For ease, use a pre-packaged coleslaw mix in place of cabbage and carrots. It saves time and still provides that delicious crunch we crave.
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Sweet and Savory: Add a touch of pineapple or teriyaki sauce for a sweet twist. This unexpected addition can bring a beautiful balance to the savory elements of the dish.
Expert Tips for Egg Roll in a Bowl
• Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables beforehand to streamline your cooking process and enjoy a quicker meal.
• Don’t Overcook: Ensure the cabbage stays slightly crunchy, adding a delightful texture to your Egg Roll in a Bowl.
• Use a Food Processor: For efficiency, a food processor can quickly shred your cabbage and carrots, saving time on prep work.
• Adjust for Spice: If you love heat, don’t hesitate to add red pepper flakes or sriracha to kick up the flavor of your dish.
• Protein Choices: Feel free to experiment with ground chicken or turkey as substitutes, allowing for variation in tastes and textures.
• Storage Tip: This dish stores well; keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later enjoyment—great for meal prepping!
What to Serve with Egg Roll in a Bowl?
Create a delightful meal experience to complement your savory creation, where vibrant flavors and textures come together.
- Cauliflower Rice: A perfect low-carb base, cauliflower rice absorbs the delicious juices from the egg roll, enhancing every bite.
- Asian Slaw: The crisp textures and tangy dressing of slaw add a refreshing contrast, making your meal even more satisfying.
- Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights provide a familiar twist, allowing you to indulge in a classic flavor while keeping it light.
- Soy Sauce Dipping Sauce: A small dish of soy sauce with a dash of sesame oil elevates the umami experience, adding a delightful kick.
- Steamed Broccoli: The bright green flavors and subtle crunch of broccoli bring a nutritious touch, rounding out your meal beautifully.
- Sesame Noodles: This simple side brings a bit of sweet and savory taste, perfectly complementing the savory notes of your egg roll.
- Chili Garlic Sauce: Offering a bit of heat, this sauce adds an exciting layer of flavor that can be drizzled over both your egg roll and any sides.
- Hot Green Tea: This soothing beverage helps cleanse the palate while enhancing the Asian-inspired theme of your dinner.
- Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a light mango sorbet offers a refreshing sweet finish, balancing the savory and spicy elements of your meal.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of tropical fruits brings freshness and sweetness, making it a light and delightful way to conclude your dining experience.
Storage Tips for Egg Roll in a Bowl
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This Egg Roll in a Bowl can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Airtight Storage: Always use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and maintain the delicious flavors of your Egg Roll in a Bowl.
Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting fresh vegetables?
Absolutely! When picking vegetables like cabbage and carrots for your Egg Roll in a Bowl, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. For cabbage, avoid any that has dark spots all over, as these can indicate spoilage. The carrots should be crunchy, not limp, to ensure you have that satisfying crunch in your dish.
How do I store leftovers of Egg Roll in a Bowl?
Very! Store your Egg Roll in a Bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to help maintain freshness. If you want to save it for later, it can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Can I freeze Egg Roll in a Bowl? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Egg Roll in a Bowl, allow it to cool completely after cooking. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing. This will help preserve the flavors and texture. Label the bags with the date so you know when to use them. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, and then reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
What if my cabbage gets too mushy during cooking?
Very common! If your cabbage ends up mushy, it means it was likely cooked too long. To avoid this, aim to sauté the cabbage only until it is tender yet still has a nice crunch—about 5-7 minutes is usually perfect. Keep an eye on it and stir frequently, as cooking times can vary.
Is this recipe suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! To keep your Egg Roll in a Bowl gluten-free, you can use low-sodium soy sauce labeled as gluten-free, or opt for coconut aminos. Both options work beautifully and allow everyone to enjoy this delicious dish without worry about gluten.
Can pets eat any of the ingredients?
Very! While many ingredients in Egg Roll in a Bowl are safe for pets, such as carrots and cabbage, it’s best to avoid the soy sauce and seasonings like garlic or onion as they can be harmful to dogs and cats in larger amounts. If you want to share with your furry friends, serve them plain, cooked vegetables without seasonings.
Delicious Egg Roll in a Bowl: Your Quick Low-Carb Fix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook for about 5 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Season with sea salt and black pepper.
- Stir in the finely diced onion and julienned carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until onions are soft and carrots are tender.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Mix in the thinly sliced cabbage, ground ginger, low-sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, and granulated sugar (if using). Sauté for 5-7 minutes until cabbage is tender yet crunchy.
- Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm.