If you love the flavors of a classic egg roll but want to skip the hassle of deep-frying and the empty calories of the wrapper, this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It captures all the savory goodness of the traditional takeout favorite, merging crunchy cabbage, tender ground meat, and punchy Asian-inspired seasonings in a single, easy-to-make skillet dish. Perfectly balanced, simple to prepare, and utterly satisfying, this recipe brings that beloved egg roll taste straight to your bowl for a quick, healthier comfort meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients right is key to nailing the texture and flavor of this recipe. Each item plays a starring role, whether in adding crunch, umami, or freshness, making this one of those dishes where simplicity truly shines.
- Ground meat (1 lb): Choose chicken, turkey, or beef, depending on your preference—it provides a hearty base and rich flavor.
- Medium head of cabbage (about 5 cups shredded): Adds delightful crunch and vibrant green color that balances the dish.
- Carrots (1 cup shredded or matchstick-cut): Bring sweetness and a pretty orange contrast that brightens every bite.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Offers mild sharpness and depth when softened in the pan.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses a warm, fragrant aroma that’s essential to the flavor profile.
- Fresh ginger (1 tbsp, grated): Adds zesty spice and a little kick that lifts the entire dish.
- Soy sauce (3 tbsp): Or tamari/coconut aminos for dietary alternatives—this salty liquid gold ties everything together.
- Rice vinegar (1 tbsp): Provides a subtle tang that brightens and balances the richness.
- Sesame oil (1 tsp): Just a drizzle for a toasty, nutty essence that’s unmistakable.
- Salt and black pepper: Adjust to taste to enhance all the natural flavors.
How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Meat
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, which helps ensure even cooking and avoids sticking. Add your ground meat and let it brown for 5 to 6 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks so every bite is tender and flavorful. The aroma at this stage will start whetting your appetite already.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Once your meat is nicely browned, toss in the diced onion. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns translucent and soft, releasing its natural sweetness that mingles beautifully with the meat’s savoriness.
Step 3: Add Veggies and Seasonings
Next, stir in the shredded carrots, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. These contribute layers of texture and vibrant flavors as you cook them together for another 2 minutes, letting their fragrance fill your kitchen, which is always a sign something delicious is underway.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cabbage
Time for the star vegetable – the cabbage! Mix it thoroughly into the skillet so it mingles with the meat and other veggies. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes just until it softens but keeps a bit of that satisfying crunch. This balance is key to giving you that authentic egg roll experience, minus the wrapper.
Step 5: Finish with Sauces and Seasoning
Pour in your soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, stirring everything to coat each ingredient evenly. Taste and then season with salt and pepper as you like to bring out the full flavor. Remove the skillet from heat once everything looks glossy and well combined.
How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish beautifully. Sprinkle chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top for a pop of color and a little crunch. For those who adore sesame oil’s aroma, try a light drizzle just before serving for extra depth.
Side Dishes
This egg roll in a bowl shines on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider pairing it with steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even a crisp Asian cucumber salad for a refreshing balance.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make your dish extra fun or party-ready, serve it in lettuce cups as an interactive finger food, or pile it high on a bed of cooked noodles for a fusion twist. This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is incredibly versatile and always inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to 3 days, making for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, this recipe freezes well. Cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag, where it can last for up to 2 months. Just remember cabbage may soften a bit after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat your egg roll bowl leftovers gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil upon reheating can revive its fresh flavors and prevent dryness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat in this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken, turkey, and beef are common choices, ground pork or even plant-based meat alternatives work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking times if needed, especially with vegetarian options.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be, by swapping out regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. These alternatives maintain the savory taste without gluten, making the dish suitable for more dietary needs.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To turn up the heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce as you add your soy sauce and seasonings. Fresh diced chili also makes a great fiery addition without overpowering the other flavors.
What if I don’t have fresh ginger?
Ground ginger can substitute if needed, but use about half a teaspoon to start so it doesn’t become too overpowering. Fresh ginger really does add a vibrant brightness, so it’s worth keeping on hand for this dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap the ground meat for crumbled tofu, tempeh, or cooked lentils and use tamari or coconut aminos for the sauce. The cabbage and seasonings provide enough texture and flavor to keep it deliciously satisfying.
Final Thoughts
I am always amazed at how this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe manages to deliver all the comforting, bold flavors of a traditional egg roll, but in such a quick and healthy way. Whether you’re pressed for time or simply craving something soul-satisfying, this dish becomes a go-to favorite that’s hard to beat. Give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness that comes straight from your skillet to your plate!
Print
Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe offers all the flavors of a classic egg roll without the hassle of wrapping and frying. A quick and easy skillet dish featuring ground meat, shredded cabbage, carrots, and aromatic seasonings, it’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground meat (chicken, turkey, or beef)
- 1 medium head cabbage, shredded (about 5 cups)
- 1 cup carrots, shredded or matchstick-cut
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
Seasonings
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free, or coconut aminos for Whole30)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the meat.
- Cook the ground meat: Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it up as it browns evenly.
- Add onions: Stir in the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Add carrots, garlic, and ginger: Incorporate the shredded carrots, minced garlic, and grated ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes to soften and release aromas.
- Add cabbage: Stir in the shredded cabbage and mix well with the meat and vegetables.
- Cook cabbage: Continue cooking for 5-6 minutes until the cabbage is tender but retains a slight crispness.
- Add sauces: Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to coat all ingredients.
- Combine thoroughly: Stir well to mix all flavors evenly throughout the dish.
- Season to taste: Add salt and black pepper as desired to enhance the flavor.
- Remove from heat and serve: Take the skillet off the heat and portion the dish immediately.
- Optional garnish: Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or an extra drizzle of sesame oil if preferred for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option; beef adds richness.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha if you like some heat.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
