If you love egg rolls but want to skip the deep-fried wrapper, you’re in for a treat! This Egg Roll in a Bowl is everything you love about the classic takeout favorite—but in a lighter, quicker, and equally delicious format. It’s packed with savory ground meat, crisp-tender cabbage, and a punchy soy-ginger sauce that brings all the flavors together in one satisfying bowl.
Best of all? This dish is one-pan, low-carb, keto-friendly, gluten-free (with the right soy sauce), and ready in 20 minutes! It’s a go-to meal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving takeout but want something homemade and nutritious.
Let’s get cooking! And hey, if you love easy and healthy meals like this, make sure to subscribe to my email list so you never miss a tasty recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Quick & Easy – 20 minutes from start to finish!
- One Pan = Less Cleanup – Minimal dishes make this a weeknight hero.
- Healthy & Nutritious – High in protein, low in carbs, and loaded with veggies.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Tastes just as amazing the next day!
- Customizable – Use your favorite protein and veggies.
What Does Egg Roll in a Bowl Taste Like?
Imagine biting into a crispy egg roll—savory, garlicky, slightly sweet, and packed with umami. Now, remove the fried wrapper and intensify the flavors! That’s what this dish is. It’s the best part of an egg roll but in a fresher, healthier, and more flavor-packed bowl.
You’ll get richness from the meat, crunch from the cabbage, warmth from the ginger, and a little zing from rice vinegar—all coming together in one crazy-good dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple but powerful when it comes to flavor!
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork, turkey, or chicken (choose your favorite!)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (adds amazing flavor)
- ½ onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 (14 oz) bag coleslaw mix (or 4 cups shredded cabbage + carrots)
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sriracha or chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Optional Additions
- Shredded carrots – For extra crunch and sweetness.
- Mushrooms – Adds umami depth.
- Bell peppers – A pop of color and sweetness.
- Water chestnuts – If you love that signature egg roll crunch!
- Egg – Scramble one in for extra protein.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok – For quick, even cooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – To break up the meat.
- Knife & cutting board – For prepping veggies.
How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl
This recipe is ridiculously easy. Just follow these steps!
Step 1: Cook the Meat
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in the onions, garlic, and ginger, cooking until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
Step 2: Add the Veggies & Sauce
- Toss in the coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage & carrots) and stir well.
- Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using). Stir everything together.
Step 3: Cook & Serve
- Let everything cook for 3-5 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Remove from heat and top with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Pro Tip: Want an extra crispy texture? Let the bottom of the pan develop a slight golden sear before stirring
What to Serve with Egg Roll in a Bowl
This dish is fantastic on its own, but here are some serving ideas:
- Cauliflower Rice or Regular Rice – A great way to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Zucchini Noodles – If you want a low-carb, noodle-like experience.
- Lettuce Wraps – Spoon the filling into crisp lettuce leaves for a fun, hand-held meal!
- Fried Egg on Top – A runny yolk makes it extra indulgent.
Helpful Tips for the Best Egg Roll in a Bowl
To make this dish absolutely irresistible, follow these simple but game-changing tips:
1. Use a Hot Pan
A hot skillet or wok ensures that everything cooks quickly and evenly while keeping the cabbage crisp and vibrant. Medium-high heat is your best friend here!
2. Don’t Overcook the Veggies
You want your cabbage to be tender but still have a bit of crunch—just like the inside of a traditional egg roll. Overcooking will make it mushy, so keep an eye on the pan!
3. Adjust Seasonings to Taste
Love spice? Add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes. Want more umami? A splash of fish sauce or extra soy sauce works wonders. You’re the chef, so tweak it to your liking!
4. Go for Fresh Garlic & Ginger
Minced garlic and fresh ginger add big, bold flavors that elevate this dish. Avoid pre-minced versions if you can—fresh is always best!
5. Let It Get a Little Crispy
For a slight crunch, let the mixture sit in the pan undisturbed for 30 seconds before stirring. This helps develop a bit of caramelization, making the dish even more flavorful.
6. Add an Egg for Extra Protein
Want it to feel even more like an egg roll? Crack an egg into the pan and scramble it in during the last minute of cooking.
7. Make It a Meal Prep Superstar
This dish stores and reheats beautifully! Make a big batch and portion it into containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
8. Top It Off!
A little crunch or garnish goes a long way. Try:
Sesame seeds
Chopped peanuts or cashews
A drizzle of sriracha mayo
Fresh cilantro for a pop of color
Storage & Meal Prep
One of the best things about Egg Roll in a Bowl is how well it stores and reheats, making it perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning ahead for busy weeknights or prepping work lunches, here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful.
How to Store
In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will meld together, making it even tastier the next day!
In the Freezer: This dish freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just note that the cabbage may soften slightly upon reheating.
Best Way to Reheat
On the Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and stir for 3-5 minutes until warmed through. This keeps the texture nice and fresh.
In the Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Meal Prep Tips
Portion in individual containers for grab-and-go meals during the week.
Pack toppings separately (like green onions, sesame seeds, or nuts) and add them just before eating for the best texture.
Serve it different ways throughout the week—one day over rice, the next in lettuce wraps, or even topped with a fried egg!
Substitutions & Variations
One of the best things about Egg Roll in a Bowl is how versatile it is! Whether you have dietary restrictions or just want to switch things up, here are some easy substitutions and variations to make this dish your own.
Protein Swaps
Ground Pork – Traditional and ultra-flavorful!
Ground Turkey or Chicken – Leaner options that still taste great.
Ground Beef – A heartier, richer alternative.
Tofu or Tempeh – For a vegetarian-friendly version, crumble firm tofu or finely dice tempeh.
Shrimp – Try adding shrimp instead of meat for a seafood twist!
Veggie Add-Ins & Substitutions
Coleslaw Mix – Easiest option, but you can also use:
- Shredded cabbage (green, red, or Napa)
- Julienned carrots
Mushrooms – Adds an extra umami boost.
Bell Peppers – For a sweet, colorful touch.
Water Chestnuts – If you love a good crunch!
Zucchini or Broccoli – Great if you want to pack in more nutrients.
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Swaps
Soy Sauce → Coconut Aminos – A great gluten-free & soy-free alternative.
Rice Vinegar → Apple Cider Vinegar – A similar tangy kick!
Serve Over Cauliflower Rice – For a lower-carb alternative to regular rice.
Lettuce Wraps – Spoon the filling into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, handheld option.
Spice It Up (Or Tone It Down!)
More Heat: Add extra sriracha, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of chili oil.
Milder Flavor: Skip the sriracha and use a little honey or coconut sugar to balance the flavors.
Extra Protein Boost
Scramble in an Egg – Just like a real egg roll, adding a whisked egg makes this dish even more satisfying!
Top with a Fried Egg – A runny yolk makes everything better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about making the best Egg Roll in a Bowl? I’ve got answers!
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep because the flavors meld and get even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container and reheat when ready to eat.
2. What’s the best meat to use?
Ground pork is the most traditional, but chicken, turkey, beef, or even shrimp work great. If you’re vegetarian, try tofu or tempeh instead.
3. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of coleslaw mix?
Yes! Just shred about 4 cups of cabbage and add some julienned carrots for that classic egg roll texture.
4. Is Egg Roll in a Bowl keto-friendly?
Yes! This recipe is naturally low in carbs and perfect for a keto diet. Just make sure to use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce if you want to avoid soy.
5. Can I freeze it?
Yes, but the cabbage will soften slightly upon reheating. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
6. How can I make this soy-free?
Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and omit sriracha if needed. The flavor will still be amazing!
7. How do I keep the cabbage from getting soggy?
Cook over medium-high heat and don’t overcook the cabbage—3-5 minutes is perfect for keeping a little crunch!
8. What can I serve with Egg Roll in a Bowl?
It’s delicious on its own, but try serving it with:
Cauliflower Rice or Regular Rice
Zucchini Noodles
Lettuce Wraps
Topped with a Fried Egg
9. Can I make this spicy?
Yes! Add extra sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chili oil for some heat. If you prefer it mild, simply leave out the spice.
10. Can I add an egg?
Of course! You can either scramble an egg into the pan or top the dish with a fried egg for extra protein and richness.
Conclusion
Egg Roll in a Bowl is the ultimate quick, easy, and healthy meal. It’s packed with flavor, super customizable, and perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious but low effort. Whether you’re keto, gluten-free, or just love a good stir-fry, this dish belongs in your dinner rotation.
If you try it, leave a review and share a photo on Pinterest! I love seeing your creations. And don’t forget to subscribe for more easy, flavorful recipes straight to your inbox!
PrintEgg Roll in a Bowl
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
If you love egg rolls but want to skip the deep-fried wrapper, you’re in for a treat! This Egg Roll in a Bowl is everything you love about the classic takeout favorite—but in a lighter, quicker, and equally delicious format. It’s packed with savory ground meat, crisp-tender cabbage, and a punchy soy-ginger sauce that brings all the flavors together in one satisfying bowl.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork, turkey, or chicken (choose your favorite!)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (adds amazing flavor)
- ½ onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 (14 oz) bag coleslaw mix (or 4 cups shredded cabbage + carrots)
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sriracha or chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Optional Additions
- Shredded carrots – For extra crunch and sweetness.
- Mushrooms – Adds umami depth.
- Bell peppers – A pop of color and sweetness.
- Water chestnuts – If you love that signature egg roll crunch!
- Egg – Scramble one in for extra protein.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Meat
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in the onions, garlic, and ginger, cooking until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
Step 2: Add the Veggies & Sauce
- Toss in the coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage & carrots) and stir well.
- Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using). Stir everything together.
Step 3: Cook & Serve
- Let everything cook for 3-5 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Remove from heat and top with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Customize It! This recipe is incredibly flexible—swap proteins, add extra veggies, or adjust the spice level to your taste.
- For Extra Crunch – Try topping with sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or crispy fried shallots.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Egg roll in a bowl, low-carb stir-fry, keto egg roll, healthy egg roll, easy dinner, one-pan meal, Asian bowl recipe