Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe

If you love the classic flavors of an egg roll but want a quicker, lighter, and mess-free meal, this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is destined to become your new favorite. It captures all the savory, garlicky goodness and satisfying crunch of the traditional egg roll without the hassle of wrappers or frying. Ground turkey mingles with fragrant ginger, tender cabbage, and a splash of soy sauce to create a comforting, healthy one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll wonder why it took so long to make egg roll night this simple and delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe relies on a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to create a balance of taste, texture, and vibrant color. Each one plays a crucial role, from the juicy ground turkey providing protein, to the crunchy cabbage and carrots adding freshness and bite, all elevated by a medley of aromatic garlic, ginger, and umami-packed soy sauce.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Used for perfectly browning the turkey and sautéing the veggies to add rich flavor without heaviness.
• 1 pound ground turkey: Lean and tender, it soaks up the seasonings and keeps the dish light yet filling.
• 1 small sweet onion (finely diced): Offers a natural sweetness that complements the savory elements beautifully.
• 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds a pop of sweetness and a delightful crunch.
• 3 garlic cloves (finely minced): Brings that unmistakable aromatic depth with every bite.
• 1 teaspoon finely minced fresh ginger: Adds a zesty, slightly spicy warmth characteristic of Asian cooking.
• ¼ cup chicken broth: Moistens the mixture and helps release all those brown bits stuck in the pan for extra flavor.
• 1 small head cabbage (about 8 cups shredded): The star veggie that mimics the shredded filling inside an egg roll, providing bulk and texture.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari: The savory backbone that ties all the flavors together with a salty umami kick.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to balance the richness and brighten the overall flavor.
• ¾ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides mild heat and depth.
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: A final drizzle that infuses the dish with a nutty, irresistible aroma.
• Cooked white rice: Optional but highly recommended as a comforting base to serve this flavorful mixture.
• Green onions (green parts only, thinly sliced): Fresh, crisp garnish for color and mild onion flavor.
• Toasted sesame seeds: Adds a bit of crunch and nuttiness for perfect finishing touch.
• Sriracha Mayo (optional): A creamy, spicy drizzle that takes this dish into next-level indulgence territory.

How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the ground turkey and cook it until almost fully browned, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step locks in flavor and gives the meat a nicely caramelized texture that forms the savory foundation of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies

Push the turkey to one side of the pan and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the finely diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then stir in the shredded carrots, minced garlic, and ginger, cooking everything together for an additional 2 minutes. Adding the chicken broth now helps loosen any browned bits stuck to the pan, giving the dish a deeper flavor base.

Step 3: Add Cabbage and Seasonings

Mix in the shredded cabbage along with soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the cabbage cook for 12 to 15 minutes or to your preferred tenderness. This gentle cooking softens the cabbage just right while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Finish with Sesame Oil

Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the mixture. This finishing touch adds a warm, toasty aroma that instantly elevates the entire dish, giving it that authentic Asian-inspired flair.

How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe

Garnishes

To truly enjoy this dish, top your Egg Roll in a Bowl with fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds. These garnishes add a burst of color, crunch, and a fresh finish that wakes up your taste buds. If you love a little heat, a drizzle of sriracha mayo is heavenly, lending a creamy, spicy kick that complements the savory flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

While this recipe is hearty on its own, serving it alongside simple steamed white rice rounds out the meal into a satisfying bowl of comfort food. You can also pair it with light Asian-inspired sides such as pickled cucumber salad or steamed edamame for a refreshing contrast and texture variety.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to change things up? Try serving the Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe inside large lettuce cups for a fun, handheld option that doubles as an appetizer or light meal. Another great idea is adding a fried egg on top for extra richness and protein, turning it into a bright and delicious bowl perfect for any time of day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making this dish even more delicious as leftovers – just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe freezes well in a sealed freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. To prevent sogginess, avoid freezing the rice separately. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water if the mixture feels dry. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, stirring every minute for even heating, until hot.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey in this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground beef, pork, or even chicken can be swapped in and will yield delicious results. Just adjust the cooking time if needed to fully brown the meat before adding the vegetables.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

For a plant-based version, replace the ground turkey with firm tofu or tempeh crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavors remain fresh and satisfying.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe itself is mild and relies on natural savory flavors. You can control the heat by adding spicy garnishes like sriracha mayo or a few dashes of hot sauce to suit your preference.

What if I don’t have fresh ginger on hand?

Fresh ginger provides the best flavor, but you can substitute 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger in a pinch. Keep in mind the flavor will be a bit different but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone craving comforting Asian-inspired flavors without any fuss. It’s simple, tasty, and incredibly versatile — perfect for busy nights or meal prepping ahead. Give it a try and enjoy a deliciously healthy spin on a classic favorite that your whole family will love!

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