Egg Roll in a Bowl (Easy 20-Minute Dinner)
Why Egg Roll in a Bowl Is the Ultimate Quick Dinner
Egg roll in a bowl takes everything you love about traditional egg rolls — savory pork, crisp cabbage, ginger, garlic, and sesame — and puts it all in one skillet with zero wrapping or deep frying. The result is a low-carb, keto-friendly dinner that is ready in about 20 minutes. Whether you call it an egg roll bowl, unstuffed egg rolls, or crack slaw, this one-pan recipe delivers big takeout flavor with minimal effort and cleanup.
This recipe works with ground pork, ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground beef. The coleslaw mix does all the vegetable prep for you, so there is no chopping needed. It is naturally gluten-free when you use tamari or coconut aminos in place of regular soy sauce.
How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl
Start by browning one pound of ground pork or turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once the meat is no longer pink, add three cloves of minced garlic and a tablespoon of freshly grated ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add a 14-ounce bag of coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots) directly to the skillet. Pour in three tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of sesame oil, and one tablespoon of rice vinegar. Toss everything together and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the cabbage is wilted but still has a slight crunch.
Finish with a drizzle of sriracha if you like heat, and top with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. For extra crunch, add crushed wonton strips or chopped peanuts on top.
Tips for the Best Egg Roll in a Bowl
Use a large, wide skillet or wok so the cabbage has room to cook evenly without steaming. Do not overcrowd the pan. Cook the meat first and drain any excess fat before adding the vegetables. This keeps the bowl from getting watery.
For the best flavor, use dark sesame oil rather than light. A splash of fish sauce adds depth if you have it on hand. Fresh ginger makes a noticeable difference compared to ground ginger, so grate it on a microplane if possible.
This dish is excellent for easy weeknight meal prep. Portion it into containers and refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat in a skillet to keep the cabbage from getting soggy.
Serving Ideas for Egg Roll in a Bowl
Serve egg roll in a bowl on its own for a low-carb meal, or over steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice if you want something more filling. It also works well inside lettuce cups for a lighter option. Pair it with a side of easy pickled cucumbers or a simple miso soup for a complete Asian-inspired dinner.
For extra protein, top the bowl with a fried egg or soft-boiled egg. A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving brightens up all the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make egg roll in a bowl with ground chicken or beef?
Yes. Ground chicken, turkey, beef, or even shrimp all work well. Chicken and turkey are leaner options, while beef adds a richer flavor. Cook times stay roughly the same.
Is egg roll in a bowl keto friendly?
It is. Without the wrapper, this recipe is naturally low in carbs. Use coconut aminos or tamari instead of regular soy sauce to keep it strictly gluten-free and keto.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the cabbage mushy.
Can I freeze egg roll in a bowl?
Yes. Let it cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in a skillet.
What can I use instead of coleslaw mix?
Shred your own green cabbage and carrots, or use napa cabbage, bok choy, or a combination. Napa cabbage cooks faster and has a more delicate texture.
Can I make egg roll in a bowl in an Instant Pot?
You can, but the skillet method is faster and gives better texture. If using a pressure cooker, saute the meat first, add the sauce and cabbage, and cook on high pressure for 1 minute with a quick release.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Add more sriracha, a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce, or red pepper flakes. You can also stir in a spoonful of gochujang for a sweet-spicy Korean twist.
What is the difference between egg roll in a bowl and crack slaw?
They are the same dish. Crack slaw is a popular name in keto and low-carb communities for unstuffed egg roll filling served in a bowl without the fried wrapper.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely. Sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, water chestnuts, snap peas, or bean sprouts all work. Add firmer vegetables earlier and delicate ones at the end.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Egg roll in a bowl is one of the best meal prep recipes. It holds up well in the fridge for 4 days and reheats quickly. Portion into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches.
Discover the Joy of Cooking Egg Roll in a Bowl in 30 Minutes!
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a delightful and quick-to-make dish that captures all the flavors of a traditional egg roll in a healthier and easier-to-prepare format. This recipe is packed with fresh ingredients, bursting with flavor, and offers a satisfying meal suitable for various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork or turkey
- 1 bag coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- Optional: crushed peanuts or crispy wonton strips for topping
Directions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground pork or turkey over medium-high heat until cooked through.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the meat, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the coleslaw mix, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Cook for a few minutes until the cabbage is wilted but still slightly crunchy.
- Drizzle with sriracha for a spicy kick and garnish with sliced green onions.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of Egg Roll in a Bowl!
