If you love the flavors of a classic egg roll but want something lighter, quicker, and easier, this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is just what your weeknight dinners need. It captures the savory, garlicky goodness of an egg roll without any wrappers or frying, making it a healthy, colorful, and satisfying meal that’s packed with ground turkey, fresh cabbage, and just the right touch of Asian-inspired sauces. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish feels like a warm, comforting hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create incredible flavor, texture, and color. Each item plays a crucial role—from the tender ground turkey providing protein to the crisp shredded cabbage bringing freshness and crunch, and the soy sauce adding that signature umami punch.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Used to sauté the turkey and vegetables, boosting flavor and preventing sticking.
- 1 pound ground turkey: A lean protein that cooks quickly and soaks up all the spices beautifully.
- 1 small sweet onion (finely diced): Adds a natural sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Provides a vibrant pop of color and a subtle sweetness.
- 3 garlic cloves (finely minced): Brings robust, aromatic punch that makes every bite crave-worthy.
- 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh ginger: Adds a zesty and slightly spicy note underlining the savory flavors.
- ¼ cup chicken broth: Helps deglaze the pan and keeps the mixture juicy.
- 1 small head cabbage (about 8 cups shredded): The star veggie delivering crunch and volume.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or Tamari: For authentic salty, umami richness with gluten-free option if tamari.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a hint of acidity to balance the savory flavors.
- ¾ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the elements without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat.
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Finishing touch that brings a nutty, fragrant aroma.
- Cooked white rice: Optional but perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices.
- Green onions (green parts only, thinly sliced): Bright and fresh garnish.
- Toasted sesame seeds: Adds crunch and visual appeal.
- Sriracha Mayo (optional): Creamy with a spicy kick to amp up flavor.
How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Turkey
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and let it cook undisturbed for about 5 to 6 minutes until it is almost fully cooked. This step sets the foundation of savory flavor and gives the dish its hearty protein base, so be sure to break up the turkey into small pieces for even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Vegetables
Push the turkey to one side of the pan and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the finely diced sweet onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Next, add the shredded carrots, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Stir frequently for about 2 minutes, letting the aromatics mingle and awaken your taste buds before you add the broth.
Step 3: Deglaze and Add Cabbage Mix
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to lift up all those delicious browned bits that hold intense flavor. Then stir in the shredded cabbage, soy sauce or tamari, rice vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well and cover the pan, reducing the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until the cabbage reaches your desired tenderness, soft but still with a little bite.
Step 4: Finish with Sesame Oil and Serve
Once the cabbage is perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the mixture. Give it one last gentle stir to infuse that nutty aroma throughout. This simple final step lifts the entire dish, making it irresistibly fragrant and flavorful.
How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
The best Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is not just about the main ingredients; it shines even brighter with thoughtful garnishes. Bright green slices of green onions add freshness and a slight crunch, while toasted sesame seeds enhance texture and add nutty notes. If you like a bit of creamy heat, a drizzle of sriracha mayo takes it over the top and makes every bite extra special.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that balance its bold flavors. Lightly steamed or sautéed greens like bok choy, snap peas, or green beans offer crisp and fresh complements. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside a scoop of fluffy white rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling playful? Serve your Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe in lettuce cups for a fun, hands-on dinner experience. Or turn it into a delicious wrap with large collard greens or rice paper sheets. For a party appetizer, spoon the mixture onto wonton crisps or inside small rice paper rolls with fresh herbs — the flavorful possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe keeps well for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover egg roll in a bowl, though the texture of the cabbage may soften a bit after thawing. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through to preserve the texture and prevent sogginess. You can also microwave it covered, but add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist and tasty.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey with another meat?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or beef can be used instead. Each will bring a slightly different flavor and texture, but all work wonderfully in this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce, the recipe becomes gluten-free. Tamari has a similar soy sauce flavor but without wheat, making this dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap the ground turkey for crumbled tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The vegetables and seasonings create plenty of flavor, so it won’t feel like you’re missing anything.
How spicy is this dish?
On its own, this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is mild and flavorful. You can easily add spice by mixing in sriracha or chili flakes during cooking or topping with sriracha mayo for a creamy heat boost.
How do I shred the cabbage quickly?
The easiest way is to cut the cabbage into quarters, remove the core, and then thinly slice it with a sharp knife or use a food processor fitted with a shredding blade for an effortless and speedy prep.
Final Thoughts
This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to meals for busy nights when I want something comforting but not heavy. It’s simple to throw together, full of fresh, vibrant flavors, and endlessly customizable. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how delicious and satisfying an egg roll can be without the wrapper or the hassle.
Print
Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe is a quick, flavorful, and healthy one-pan meal that captures all the delicious flavors of a classic egg roll without the wrapper. Using ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and a simple combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels comforting and satisfying. Served over rice and garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, and optional sriracha mayo, it’s a low-carb spin on the traditional takeout favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 small sweet onion (finely diced)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh ginger
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 small head cabbage (about 8 cups shredded)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or Tamari
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
To Serve
- Cooked white rice
- Green onions (green parts only, thinly sliced)
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sriracha Mayo (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Turkey: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook for 5-6 minutes until it is almost fully cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Push the cooked turkey to one side of the pan and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened. Then add shredded carrots, minced garlic, and ginger. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently to combine flavors.
- Add Broth and Deglaze: Pour in ¼ cup of chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This adds rich flavor to the dish.
- Cook the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage, soy sauce or tamari, rice vinegar, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage has softened to your preferred tenderness.
- Finish with Sesame Oil: Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil over the mixture. Stir gently to distribute the nutty flavor evenly throughout the dish.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the egg roll mixture over cooked white rice if desired. Top with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for added spice and creaminess.
Notes
- Shredding the cabbage finely helps it cook evenly and mimic the texture of shredded vegetables found inside an egg roll.
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, pork, or beef if preferred.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure to use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Sriracha mayo is optional but adds a nice spicy kick; you can make your own by mixing mayonnaise with sriracha sauce.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat easily on the stovetop or microwave.
