If you love classic takeout egg rolls but want something lighter, faster, and easier, this Egg Roll in a Bowl is about to become a staple in your kitchen. It captures everything you crave savory ground meat, tender-crisp cabbage, garlic, ginger, and that signature umami-packed flavor without deep frying or wrapping.
This deconstructed egg roll recipe is quick, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights. It’s naturally low carb, high in protein, and packed with vegetables, making it ideal for meal prep and healthy eating goals.
Best of all? It’s ready in about 40 minutes, all in one pan.
Why You’ll Love Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Low carb and keto-friendly
- Naturally gluten free (with tamari or coconut aminos)
- Ready in under 40 minutes
- One-pan cleanup
- Packed with protein and vegetables
- Perfect for meal prep
It’s comfort food made smarter.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground meat (chicken, turkey, beef, or beef bacon turkey blend for halal option)
- 1 bag (14–16 oz) coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 3 tablespoons tamari or coconut aminos
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon avocado or olive oil
Optional Add-Ins
- Red pepper flakes
- Sriracha
- Mushrooms
- Water chestnuts
- Bell peppers
Garnish
- Sliced green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Meat
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground meat and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add Aromatics
Stir in garlic and ginger. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation.
3. Add Cabbage Mixture
Add coleslaw mix directly to the skillet. Stir well and cook 5–7 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
4. Season
Pour in tamari, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and pepper. Toss everything together and cook another 3–5 minutes until well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
5. Garnish & Serve
Top with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.
What Makes This Dish So Good
The beauty of Egg Roll in a Bowl is its texture contrast:
- Savory ground meat
- Tender-crisp cabbage
- Aromatic garlic and ginger
- Nutty sesame oil finish
Without the wrapper, the flavors shine more clearly. It’s lighter but still satisfying.
How to Make It Halal
Instead of traditional pork, use:
- Ground chicken
- Ground turkey
- Ground beef
- Turkey beef bacon (if adding smoky flavor)
Always verify ingredient labels for halal compliance.
Serving Ideas
This dish is versatile:
Low Carb Option
Serve as is in a bowl.
Rice Bowl Version
Serve over jasmine rice or brown rice.
Cauliflower Rice
For keto-friendly version.
Lettuce Wraps
Spoon mixture into butter lettuce leaves.
Meal Prep Friendly
Egg Roll in a Bowl stores beautifully.
- Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Portion into containers for grab-and-go lunches
- Reheat in skillet or microwave
You can even freeze it for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Benefits
- High protein
- High fiber
- Low carb
- Rich in vitamins from cabbage and carrots
For detailed healthy eating guidance, consult trusted resources like Harvard Nutrition Source:
👉 https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/
Customization Ideas
- Add scrambled eggs for extra protein
- Stir in chili paste for heat
- Add zucchini or mushrooms for volume
- Top with avocado for healthy fats
It’s incredibly adaptable.
Common Questions
Can I use fresh cabbage instead of coleslaw mix?
Absolutely. Thinly slice half a head of green cabbage.
Is it spicy?
Only if you add chili or sriracha.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a large skillet or cook in batches.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 25–30g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 20g
Values vary depending on meat choice.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Families
It’s fast. It’s affordable. It uses simple grocery store ingredients. And it satisfies everyone at the table.
Kids love the familiar “egg roll” flavor. Adults appreciate the lighter twist. It’s a win-win.