This Easy Egg Roll in a Bowl is a quick and satisfying take on the beloved Asian appetizer—without the deep frying or wrapper. Loaded with savory ground meat, crisp cabbage, and classic flavors like sesame, soy, and ginger, it’s a flavorful one-pan meal that’s ready in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, it’s everything you love about egg rolls served in a simpler, healthier way.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe transforms a takeout favorite into a nourishing bowl of flavor that’s both delicious and easy to make. It’s naturally gluten-free adaptable, low-carb, and packed with protein and veggies. The sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce create an umami-rich profile that satisfies your cravings with minimal effort. It’s also endlessly customizable—use any protein, spice level, or vegetable combo to suit your taste.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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ground chicken or turkey
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sesame oil
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coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
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green onions, chopped
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garlic, minced
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ginger, minced
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soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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rice vinegar
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chili paste (adjust to taste)
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salt and pepper
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sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
directions
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Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the ground chicken or turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes.
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Stir in the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add the coleslaw mix and green onions to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
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Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili paste. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste and cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
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Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Servings and timing
Variations
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Vegetarian: Use crumbled tofu or a meat substitute in place of the ground meat.
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Keto-Friendly: Omit carrots and use just cabbage for fewer carbs.
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Beef or Pork Version: Substitute with ground beef or pork for a richer flavor.
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Add Rice or Noodles: Serve over brown rice, jasmine rice, or rice noodles for a heartier bowl.
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Extra Crunch: Top with crispy wonton strips or chopped peanuts.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use bagged coleslaw mix?
Yes, it’s a convenient and quick option that works perfectly in this recipe.
Is this dish spicy?
The chili paste adds heat, but you can adjust the amount or omit it for a milder version.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. It reheats well and is great for meal prep.
What’s a good substitute for sesame oil?
Toasted sesame oil is ideal, but you can use olive oil in a pinch—though the flavor will differ.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini are all great additions.
What’s the best protein to use?
Ground chicken or turkey keeps it lean, but beef, pork, or tofu work well too.
How do I keep it from being watery?
Don’t overcook the cabbage and be sure to cook over medium-high heat to evaporate excess moisture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or work in batches to ensure even cooking.
Can I serve this cold?
It’s best served warm, but it can be eaten cold as a salad-style dish if preferred.
Conclusion
Easy Egg Roll in a Bowl is a fast, flavorful, and nutritious way to enjoy the essence of egg rolls without the hassle. It’s a satisfying meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes, ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prepping for the week. With endless variations and a flavor profile that’s both bold and comforting, this dish is a modern classic you’ll return to time and again.