If you’re craving all the flavors of a classic egg roll but want something quicker, lighter, and way easier to make, then you absolutely have to try this Easy Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe. It captures that delicious, savory, and slightly tangy taste combo you love without the hassle of wrapping and frying. Plus, it’s loaded with crunchy cabbage, tender ground meat or tofu, and a splash of sesame oil that brings everything home. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a total game changer!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and straightforward, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and that signature egg roll taste without the wrapper. The ground meat or tofu brings savory goodness, fresh aromatics add depth, and the crisp veggies lend a refreshing crunch.
- 1 lb ground chicken, pork, or turkey (or tofu for a vegetarian version): This is your protein base—choose your favorite or swap for tofu to keep it meat-free.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil): Adds a nutty richness while searing the meat or tofu perfectly.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Brings sweetness and a lovely aromatic layer.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that classic garlicky punch.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds brightness and subtle warmth to the dish.
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots): Provides crunch and color, mimicking the classic egg roll filling.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Delivers savory umami that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Gives a slight tang that balances the richness of the meat and oil.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for finishing): A finishing touch that elevates the nutty aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat): Adds a subtle kick if you like a bit of spice.
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish): Fresh, crisp, and colorful garnish to brighten the dish.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional for garnish): Sprinkle on top for added texture and hypnotizing nuttiness.
How to Make Easy Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Meat or Tofu
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your choice of ground meat or crumbled tofu and cook it until nicely browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to break up the meat or tofu into small pieces as it cooks — this helps it combine beautifully with the veggies later. Once cooked, transfer it out of the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet (which now has those wonderful browned bits left behind), add the diced onion, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Cook everything together for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and you can smell those amazing aromas filling your kitchen. This step layers in the flavor, ensuring every bite is bursting with savory goodness.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Carrots
Next, stir in the coleslaw mix, which adds crunch and color to the dish, mimicking the classic egg roll filling. Cook the cabbage and carrots for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to help them soften just enough without losing their delightful bite. This creates a lovely contrast in texture with the tender meat or tofu.
Step 4: Combine
It’s time to bring it all together. Return the cooked meat or tofu to the skillet with the veggies. Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a touch of heat. Stir everything well and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes so all the flavors marry beautifully. This step is where the dish really comes alive, tasting like everything you love from an egg roll but without any fuss.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Drizzle 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over the mixture and give it a final toss. This finishing oil adds incredible nuttiness and aroma, making the dish smell as amazing as it tastes. Now, your Easy Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is perfectly seasoned and ready to enjoy.
Step 6: Serve
Divide the flavorful mixture into bowls and get ready to elevate it with fresh garnish. It’s simple, wholesome, and absolutely delicious!
How to Serve Easy Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
For the perfect finishing touch, sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top. The green onions add a crisp freshness that cuts through the rich flavors, while sesame seeds give a delightful crunch and enhance the nutty undertones of the dish. These tiny details make all the difference in presentation and taste!
Side Dishes
This bowl is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even crispy wonton chips for a bit of crunch and fun. A simple cucumber salad with a light dressing can also bring a refreshing balance to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to get a little creative? Try serving this Egg Roll in a Bowl wrapped in large lettuce leaves to scoop up with your hands for a fun, finger-food experience. You can also stuff it inside baked sweet potatoes or use it as a filling for rice paper rolls with a dipping sauce. The options are endless and keep the dish exciting every time you make it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This Easy Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the cooked dish into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it covered for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. If you like, drizzle a little extra sesame oil after reheating to revive those fresh, nutty flavors.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of chicken or pork?
Absolutely! Ground beef works well in this recipe and adds a slightly different flavor profile. Just be sure to drain any excess fat after cooking for a lighter dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make it gluten-free by swapping regular soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Everything else remains the same, keeping the dish tasty and safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
How spicy is this dish by default?
This recipe is mild unless you add the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Feel free to adjust the heat to your liking by adding more or skipping it altogether.
Can I turn this into a vegetarian or vegan dish?
Yes! Simply substitute the meat with firm tofu or even tempeh. Just crumble it up and cook as you would the meat. The soy sauce and sesame oil bring plenty of flavor to keep it satisfying.
What kind of cabbage is best to use?
A pre-shredded coleslaw mix that contains cabbage and carrots is easiest and fastest. But if you’re feeling adventurous, thinly sliced green or Napa cabbage works beautifully too and gives a nice crunch.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Easy Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe enough — it’s simple, quick, and absolutely packed with flavor! Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it hits all the right notes without any fuss. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner.
Print
Easy Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Egg Roll in a Bowl is a quick, healthy, and delicious one-pan dish inspired by traditional egg rolls without the wrapper. Ground chicken, pork, turkey, or tofu is sautéed with fresh aromatics, shredded cabbage, and carrots, then seasoned with soy sauce and rice vinegar for a savory, tangy flavor. It’s perfect for a low-carb, gluten-free meal that comes together in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken, pork, or turkey (or tofu for a vegetarian version)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for finishing)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat or Tofu: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat or crumbled tofu and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the Cabbage and Carrots: Stir in the coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots) and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and tender.
- Combine: Add the cooked meat or tofu back into the skillet. Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Finish the Dish: Drizzle 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over the mixture and toss to combine evenly.
- Serve: Divide the mixture into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or pork depending on preference or use extra-firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your spice tolerance or omit them for a mild flavor.
- For a low-carb or keto-friendly meal, this recipe fits perfectly due to its high protein and vegetable content without traditional wrappers.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
