Craving takeout flavors without the carbs? This Low Carb Mongolian Ground Beef & Cabbage recipe delivers all the savory-sweet goodness of classic Mongolian beef in a healthy, keto-friendly package. By swapping out rice for crunchy cabbage and using a sugar-free sauce, this dish becomes a guilt-free weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. The combination of tender ground beef, crisp cabbage strips, and that signature sticky Mongolian glaze creates a satisfying texture contrast that will make you forget it’s low-carb.
What makes this recipe truly special is its perfect balance of convenience and flavor. Unlike traditional Mongolian beef that requires thinly sliced steak and careful cooking, this version uses budget-friendly ground beef that soaks up the rich sauce beautifully. The cabbage adds volume and nutrients while keeping carbs low, making it ideal for meal prep or family dinners. With its bold garlic, ginger, and sesame flavors, this dish proves that eating low-carb doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or comfort food appeal.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Keto & low-carb approved (only 8g net carbs per serving!)
- 30-minute meal with minimal cleanup (one-skillet wonder)
- Budget-friendly using ground beef instead of expensive cuts
- Customizable spice level (add chili flakes or Sriracha)
- Meal prep superstar – tastes even better the next day
Unlike other low-carb Asian-inspired dishes that rely on cauliflower rice, this recipe lets cabbage shine as the perfect vehicle for the rich Mongolian sauce. The cabbage retains just enough crunch to mimic noodles while absorbing all the delicious flavors. Whether you’re following a strict keto diet or just looking for a lighter alternative to takeout, this dish satisfies those umami cravings without the carb crash.
Low Carb Mongolian Ground Beef & Cabbage – A Flavorful Keto-Friendly Meal
4
servings10
minutes15
minutes320
kcalIngredients for Low Carb Mongolian Ground Beef & Cabbage
1 lb ground beef (85/15 lean/fat)
4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
¼ cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce)
2 tbsp sugar-free sweetener (monk fruit or erythritol)
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp rice vinegar
½ tsp xanthan gum (for thickening, optional)
2 green onions, sliced
1 tbsp sesame seeds
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt to taste
Directions for Low Carb Mongolian Ground Beef & Cabbage
- Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles until no pink remains. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Aromatics
Push beef to one side of the skillet. Add garlic, ginger, and a splash of sesame oil to the empty space. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, then mix into the beef.
- Create the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk coconut aminos, sweetener, rice vinegar, and xanthan gum (if using). Pour over the beef mixture and stir to coat evenly. Let simmer for 2 minutes to thicken.
- Add Cabbage
Toss in sliced cabbage and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly wilted but still crisp. For more tender cabbage, cover and cook an additional 2 minutes.
- Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat. Top with green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes for color and extra kick. Serve immediately while hot.
What to Serve With It
- Cauliflower rice for extra volume
- Quick-pickled cucumbers for acidity
- Steamed broccoli or bok choy
- Extra sesame seeds for crunch
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 24g
- Net Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Mongolian Ground Beef & Cabbage is proof that healthy eating doesn’t mean bland food. With its caramelized beef, crisp-tender cabbage, and addictive sauce, it’s a low-carb game-changer that delivers on both flavor and convenience. Perfect for keto dieters, busy families, or anyone craving Asian flavors without the guilt.
