Description
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a delicious, quick, and satisfying dinner that combines all the classic flavors of a traditional egg roll without the deep-fried wrapper. Made with juicy seasoned ground beef, crunchy cabbage, shredded carrots, fresh green onions, garlic, ginger, and a savory sesame soy sauce, this easy one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Also known as a deconstructed egg roll, this recipe delivers a wonderful combination of tender beef, lightly crisp vegetables, and delicious Asian-inspired seasonings. The ground beef adds rich, savory flavor, while the cabbage and carrots provide freshness, color, and satisfying texture.
One of the best things about Egg Roll in a Bowl is how quickly it comes together. Using a packaged coleslaw mix saves preparation time, making this recipe ready in approximately 25 minutes.
This dish is perfect for family dinners, healthy lunches, meal preparation, or anyone looking for a lower-carb alternative to traditional egg rolls. You can easily customize it with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or additional vegetables.
Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl on its own for a lighter meal, or pair it with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a more filling dinner.
Ingredients For the Ground Beef
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1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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½ teaspoon ground ginger
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½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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¼ teaspoon salt, optional
For the Vegetables
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1 bag (14–16 oz) coleslaw mix, containing shredded cabbage and carrots
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½ cup shredded purple cabbage (optional)
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4 green onions, sliced
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½ small yellow onion, finely diced (optional)
For the Savory Sauce
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2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
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1 teaspoon honey (optional)
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½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnishing
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2 tablespoons chopped green onions
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1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
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1 teaspoon sriracha sauce (optional)
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Fresh cilantro (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing and preparing all fresh ingredients.
Finely mince the garlic, slice the green onions, and dice the optional yellow onion.
If using a packaged coleslaw mix, open the bag and gently separate the shredded vegetables.
For additional color and crunch, add a little extra purple cabbage.
Keep the green onion tops aside for garnishing.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, and optional honey.
Add crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a slightly spicy flavor.
Whisk until the ingredients are evenly combined.
Set the sauce aside while cooking the ground beef.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Place a large nonstick skillet, wok, or deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
Add 1 tablespoon sesame oil and allow it to warm.
If using diced yellow onion, add it to the skillet and cook for approximately 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the lean ground beef to the hot skillet.
Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the meat into small, evenly sized crumbles.
Cook for approximately 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
The ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Ginger
Reduce the heat to medium.
Add the minced garlic, ground ginger, and freshly ground black pepper.
Stir continuously for approximately 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Avoid cooking the garlic too long because it can become bitter.
The combination of garlic and ginger creates the classic savory aroma associated with traditional egg rolls.
Step 6: Add the Coleslaw Mix
Add the shredded coleslaw mix to the skillet with the cooked ground beef.
If your skillet is too small, add the vegetables in two batches.
Gently toss the cabbage and carrots with the beef.
Cook for approximately 4–6 minutes, stirring frequently.
The vegetables should become slightly tender while retaining a pleasant crunch.
Avoid overcooking because the cabbage can become watery and lose its fresh texture.
Step 7: Pour in the Sauce
Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture evenly over the ground beef and vegetables.
Stir thoroughly so every ingredient is coated with the savory dressing.
Continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes until the flavors combine.
If excess liquid collects in the skillet, cook uncovered for an additional minute to allow some moisture to evaporate.
Step 8: Add the Green Onions
Stir in most of the sliced green onions, reserving a small amount for garnishing.
Cook for approximately 30 seconds.
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Add a little extra soy sauce for a stronger savory flavor or a splash of rice vinegar for additional brightness.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat.
Transfer the Egg Roll in a Bowl mixture to individual serving bowls or a large family-style dish.
Sprinkle with the remaining green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
For a spicy finish, drizzle lightly with sriracha sauce.
Serve immediately while warm and flavorful.
Tips and Notes
Use lean ground beef: Ground beef that is 90% lean helps prevent the finished dish from becoming greasy.
Save time with coleslaw mix: A pre-shredded cabbage and carrot mixture makes this recipe especially convenient.
Keep the vegetables slightly crunchy: Avoid overcooking the cabbage. It should soften while retaining some texture.
Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a stronger, more aromatic flavor than garlic powder.
Adjust the ginger: Ground ginger works well, but you can substitute approximately 1½ teaspoons of freshly grated ginger.
Control the sodium: Low-sodium soy sauce helps balance the saltiness. Taste before adding extra salt.
Add extra vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, snow peas, or bean sprouts make delicious additions.
Make it spicy: Add chili garlic sauce, sriracha, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Make it gluten-free: Replace regular soy sauce with certified gluten-free tamari and check the remaining sauce ingredients.
Try another protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can replace ground beef. Cook poultry to 165°F (74°C).
Meal preparation: Divide the cooked mixture into individual airtight containers for convenient lunches.
Storage: Refrigerate cooled leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until steaming hot, stirring occasionally.
Freezing: Freeze cooled portions for up to 2 months for best quality. The cabbage may become softer after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Egg Roll in a Bowl?
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a deconstructed version of a traditional egg roll. It contains seasoned ground meat, cabbage, carrots, garlic, ginger, and savory sauce without the fried wrapper.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey is an excellent alternative. Cook it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before adding the vegetables.
Is Egg Roll in a Bowl low-carb?
This recipe is generally lower in carbohydrates than traditional egg rolls because it does not contain the flour-based wrapper. The vegetables and sauce still contribute some carbohydrates.
Can I make this recipe without sesame oil?
Yes. You can substitute olive oil or avocado oil. However, sesame oil provides a distinctive toasted flavor that complements the dish.
How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming soggy?
Cook the cabbage over medium-high heat, avoid covering the skillet, and do not cook it longer than necessary.
Can I prepare Egg Roll in a Bowl ahead of time?
Absolutely. This recipe is excellent for meal preparation. Cook the mixture, allow it to cool, and store it in individual containers in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with Egg Roll in a Bowl?
Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, cauliflower rice, cucumber salad, roasted broccoli, or a small bowl of miso soup pair beautifully with this dish.
Can I add noodles to this recipe?
Yes. Cooked rice noodles or stir-fry noodles can be mixed into the finished dish for a heartier meal. Add a little extra sauce if needed.
Servings and Nutrition
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving
Based on four equal portions using 90% lean ground beef, coleslaw mix, sesame oil, and sauce, excluding optional toppings and side dishes.
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Calories: 340 kcal
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Protein: 26 g
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Carbohydrates: 12 g
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Fat: 21 g
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Fiber: 3 g
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Sugar: 6 g
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Sodium: 620 mg
Nutrition values are approximate and depend on the ground beef fat percentage, coleslaw mix, soy sauce, and serving sizes.
Egg Roll in a Bowl is the perfect combination of juicy seasoned beef, crunchy cabbage, fresh carrots, aromatic garlic, ginger, and delicious sesame soy sauce. With its simple ingredients, quick cooking time, and satisfying flavor, this easy one-pan dinner is ideal for family meals, healthy lunches, and weekly meal preparation.
