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Egg Roll in a Bowl
Egg Roll in a Bowl is everything you love about a classic takeout egg roll—savory meat, tender-crisp vegetables, garlic, ginger, and sesame flavor—without the wrapper or deep frying. This deconstructed version delivers all the comfort and bold taste of your favorite Asian-inspired dish in a lighter, faster, and incredibly satisfying way. It’s warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
By skipping the wrapper, this dish becomes naturally low-carb and gluten-free (with the right sauce), while still feeling indulgent and filling. Served straight from the skillet into a bowl, it’s cozy, customizable, and endlessly crave-worthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Egg Roll in a Bowl comes together in under 30 minutes and uses simple ingredients you can find in any grocery store. There’s no rolling, no frying, and no mess—just one pan and big flavor. The balance of savory ground meat, sweet cabbage, and aromatic garlic and ginger makes this dish feel like comfort food without heaviness.
It’s also incredibly flexible. You can make it spicy or mild, swap proteins, add extra veggies, or serve it on its own or over rice. It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for lunches and weekly meal prep.
Ingredients
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 pound ground pork, chicken, turkey, or beef
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Optional toppings: sesame seeds, sriracha, chili oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This step builds the savory base of the dish, so allow the meat to develop a bit of color before moving on.
Once the meat is fully cooked, add the diced onion. Cook for two to three minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking just until aromatic. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Add the sliced cabbage and shredded carrots to the skillet. Toss everything together so the vegetables are coated in the flavorful oils and juices from the meat. Cook for five to seven minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce and rice vinegar, then season with black pepper and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and allow the mixture to cook for another two to three minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, straight from the pan into bowls.
Flavor Variations
This recipe is a perfect base for customization. For a spicier version, add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil. If you prefer a slightly sweet note, stir in a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or snap peas can be added for extra texture and color.
You can also switch up the protein. Ground chicken or turkey keeps it light, while pork adds richness. A plant-based ground alternative works well for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions
Egg Roll in a Bowl is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or even wrapped in lettuce cups for a fresh crunch. A drizzle of sriracha mayo or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a restaurant-style finish.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This dish stores exceptionally well. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
A Takeout Classic Made Better at Home
Egg Roll in a Bowl proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a one-pan method, it delivers everything you crave from takeout in a homemade, satisfying way. Once you try it, this dish is bound to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.