Inside Out Egg Roll in a Bowl

If you’re craving the flavor of your favorite takeout egg roll but want to skip the deep frying and carbs, this Inside Out Egg Roll in a Bowl is the perfect solution. I first discovered this dish during a phase of low-carb meal planning, and it quickly became a household favorite. It brings all the bold, savory, umami-packed goodness of egg rolls—without the wrapper.

This one-pan wonder is quick, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Made with ground meat, cabbage (or coleslaw mix), and a flavorful blend of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you want something hearty and healthy in under 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love It

• Ready in 20 Minutes: Quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Low Carb & Keto: All the flavor of egg rolls without the wrapper.
• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully.
• Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Options: Use tamari for gluten-free and no dairy needed.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef, pork, or turkey
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (1–2 cloves)
• 14–16 oz coleslaw mix (or 6 cups finely sliced cabbage)
• ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Pinch ground cloves (optional)
• 1½ tablespoons sesame oil
• 3 green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat, breaking it apart as it browns. Cook until no pink remains.

2. Add Garlic
Drain excess fat if needed, then add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30–60 seconds.

3. Add Cabbage
Stir in the coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage, tossing it with the cooked meat.

4. Add Flavor
Pour in soy sauce or tamari, and add hot sauce, ground ginger, onion powder, and ground cloves (if using). Stir until everything is evenly coated.

5. Steam the Cabbage
Cover with a lid and cook for 2–5 minutes, until cabbage is softened to your liking. If not using a lid, add ¼–⅓ cup water to help prevent sticking.

6. Finish with Sesame Oil
Remove from heat and stir in toasted sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

7. Serve
Spoon into bowls and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Make-Ahead Tips & Storage

• Prep Ahead: Chop cabbage and pre-mix seasonings to speed things up.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Cool completely before freezing and thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Microwave or reheat in a skillet until warmed through.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use plant-based ground meat or tofu.
• Add Veggies: Add mushrooms, shredded carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch.
• Spicy Kick: Use more hot sauce or toss in chili flakes or sriracha.
• Egg Roll Bowl with Rice: Serve over rice or cauliflower rice for a fuller meal.

What to Serve With Inside Out Egg Roll in a Bowl

Although it’s a meal on its own, try these sides or toppings:

• Cauliflower rice or jasmine rice
• Kimchi or pickled veggies
• Fried or poached egg on top
• Asian cucumber salad or seaweed salad

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?
Tamari is a gluten-free alternative. Coconut aminos can also be used for a soy-free version.

Can I make it spicier?
Yes, just increase the amount of hot sauce or add sriracha to the mix.

Do I need to use sesame oil?
Toasted sesame oil adds that classic egg roll flavor, but you can skip it or use a few drops of sesame extract if needed.

Final Thoughts

Inside Out Egg Roll in a Bowl is the kind of meal that makes clean eating not just doable, but genuinely crave-worthy. It’s bold, satisfying, and made with simple ingredients that deliver big flavor. Whether you’re on a keto diet, gluten-free, or just need a fast dinner that checks every box, this recipe delivers every time.

Easy to prep, easy to clean, and guaranteed to please—it’s a modern classic for a reason.