Egg Roll in Bowl

This egg roll in a bowl recipe is perfect for when you want the flavors of an egg roll without the fuss of wrappers. It comes together quickly, is packed with savory goodness, and feels like a comforting meal any time of year. It has become a go-to for busy weeknights when I crave something tasty but easy to throw together.

I first made this after craving egg rolls but wanting something faster and less messy. Now it is a frequent request in my house especially when comfort food is on the menu.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: One and a half pounds for hearty protein and rich flavor. Choose lean or medium ground beef for best balance of taste and fat
• Onion: One large diced finely to provide sweetness and depth when cooked down
• Garlic: One tablespoon minced to add aroma and pungency, fresh garlic works best here
• Sesame oil: Two tablespoons that lends a nutty, toasted flavor essential to mimic egg roll taste
• Carrots: Half a cup peeled and finely shredded for a touch of sweetness and crunch
• Coleslaw mix: Sixteen ounces typically a blend of cabbage and shredded carrots which brings texture and freshness
• Onion powder: Half teaspoon to enhance savory notes
• Garlic powder: Half teaspoon with onion powder strengthens the garlic flavor and layers spices
• Red pepper flakes: Half teaspoon add just a subtle kick, but you can adjust to taste
• Ground ginger: One and a half teaspoon gives warmth and a hint of zest that is traditional in egg rolls
• Soy sauce: Half to three quarter cup low sodium to season everything well without overpowering
• Vegetable oil: Two tablespoons to help soften the veggies and meld flavors
• Green onions: For garnish optional but they add freshness and a pop of color

Instructions

Sear the Beef:

Cook ground beef in a large deep-sided skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Avoid breaking the beef into tiny pieces, keep larger chunks intact to create a nice meaty texture. Drain excess grease to prevent sogginess.

Cook the Onions and Garlic:

Return the skillet to heat and add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook these together with the beef until onions become soft and translucent. Keeping the beef in larger pieces while cooking enhances the texture contrast.

Add Sesame Oil and Veggies:

Pour in two tablespoons of sesame oil and add the shredded carrots and coleslaw mix. Use tongs to combine everything thoroughly. Let this mixture cook for about five minutes so the cabbage softens slightly but still retains a bit of crunch.

Mix the Spices and Sauce:

In a small bowl combine onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, ground ginger, soy sauce, and vegetable oil. Whisk together well to form a flavorful sauce.

Simmer Everything Together:

Pour the sauce mixture over the skillet contents. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking for about five more minutes to let the flavors marry and the veggies soften further.

Garnish and Serve:

Finish by sprinkling sliced green onions on top if you like, adding freshness and a pop of color before serving.

The ground ginger really shines here for me, it gives the dish that unmistakable zing reminiscent of traditional egg rolls. One winter evening, this dish was the highlight after a long day, comforting and flavorful without the heaviness of fried food.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to keep the veggies from getting soggy. For longer storage, freeze it in portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter dish. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy free version. You can swap out coleslaw mix for shredded cabbage and carrots if you want a fresher option. Replace red pepper flakes with a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to vary heat levels.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a full meal. Top with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for crunch. Pair with a simple miso soup or quick cucumber salad for a complete dinner.

This egg roll in a bowl is a delicious, quick, and comforting meal that suits busy nights and health-conscious eaters alike. Enjoy the burst of flavors and easy preparation every time.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use a different meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground pork or turkey can be substituted for ground beef to provide a different but still delicious flavor profile.

→ What is the purpose of sesame oil in this dish?

Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma and depth to the flavor, enhancing the overall savory experience.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the bowl?

Absolutely. Vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas complement the texture and add freshness.

→ How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a mild to moderate heat, which can be adjusted or omitted to suit your taste preferences.

→ Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the dish gluten-free without compromising flavor.