If you love the crispy, savory flavors of an egg roll but want a quick, fuss-free dinner, this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. It captures all the deliciousness of classic egg roll fillings—ground meat, fresh crunchy veggies, and a zingy, slightly sweet sauce—but tossed together in a hot skillet for a speedy, satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to share, bringing vibrant color, bold flavors, and a delightful texture with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and key to bringing that iconic egg roll flavor right into your stir fry. Each element plays a vital role—from the savory ground pork that adds heartiness to the crisp, fresh vegetables giving a wonderful crunch and sweetness.
- 1 lb ground pork (or chicken, turkey, or beef): Choose your favorite meat for a rich, savory base full of umami.
- 2 tbsp sesame oil: This oil adds a nutty aroma and depth that makes the dish truly shine.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Onions bring subtle sweetness and a tender bite when cooked.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the stir fry with a fragrant, pungent kick.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix): Adds that essential crunch and freshness that define egg roll fillings.
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded: The carrot’s natural sweetness and bright color elevate the dish beautifully.
- 1/2 cup sliced bell pepper (any color): Bell peppers contribute mild sweetness and vibrant hues for visual appeal.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): This salty, savory sauce ties all the flavors together perfectly.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: A splash of acidity balances the dish and adds brightness.
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth if you like a little extra complexity.
- 1 tsp ground ginger: Ginger brings warmth and zest that lifting the entire flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat): For those who enjoy a gentle spicy kick to spark things up.
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish): Fresh green onions brighten the final presentation and add a mild oniony crunch.
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): Toasted sesame seeds add pretty texture and a toasty note on top.
How to Make Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Meat
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground pork, or your chosen meat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned all over and no longer pink inside. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it to keep the stir fry from getting greasy. This rich, savory layer is the foundation for the whole dish.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
To the browned meat, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir frequently, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, and the garlic releases its irresistible aroma. This step builds depth, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Stir Fry the Vegetables
Throw in the shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and sliced bell pepper. Toss everything briskly, letting the vegetables cook for about 5-7 minutes. You want them tender but still crunchy because that crispness is what makes this stir fry sing, recalling the fresh, crunchy bite of an egg roll.
Step 4: Whisk and Add the Sauce
While the veggies cook, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce if you’re using it, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Pour this sauce over the contents of the pan and stir well, coating every bit evenly. Cook another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors marry and thicken slightly, giving you that perfect saucy consistency.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is fragrant and glossy, remove from heat. Sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top to add a fresh pop of flavor and an inviting crunch. It’s now ready to enjoy right off the stove!
How to Serve Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Extra green onions and toasted sesame seeds are my go-to garnishes—they add color, texture, and an extra layer of flavor that’s just irresistible. If you want, a drizzle of sriracha or a few fresh cilantro leaves can brighten it even more.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with simple steamed rice to soak up the sauce or get creative with fried rice or garlic noodles for a heartier meal. A crisp cucumber salad or quick pickled vegetables can also add a refreshing contrast on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make this dish even more fun? Serve it in lettuce cups or over crispy wonton chips as a fun appetizer or light dinner. You could also use it as a filling for wraps or even stuff it into steamed buns for a playful twist on classic flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it ideal for a quick lunch or dinner later on.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, cool completely before placing in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve the crispness of the vegetables, or microwave covered for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if it feels a little dry.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork?
Absolutely! This Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe works wonderfully with ground chicken, turkey, or even beef. Each brings its own flavor twist while keeping that signature egg roll taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping regular soy sauce for tamari, you can enjoy this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or authenticity.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, snap peas, or even bean sprouts to personalize your stir fry while keeping it fresh and vibrant.
How spicy is this dish?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, but they’re optional. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste by adding more, less, or leaving them out completely.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Swap the ground meat for firm tofu or a plant-based protein and use vegetarian hoisin sauce to make this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe completely vegetarian and just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe enough for anyone craving those bold, comforting flavors of an egg roll in a vibrant, speedy skillet meal. It’s a true weeknight hero—easy to make, packed with delicious textures, and endlessly adaptable. Give it a try and watch it become a go-to favorite in your home!
Print
Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
A quick and flavorful Egg Roll Stir Fry featuring ground pork and crisp vegetables tossed in a savory Asian-inspired sauce. This versatile skillet dish captures the essence of classic egg roll flavors without the hassle of frying, ready in just 25 minutes for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb ground pork (or chicken, turkey, or beef)
Vegetables
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
- 1/2 cup sliced bell pepper (any color)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sauce & Seasonings
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Meat: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork (or your choice of meat) and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. Then stir in the shredded cabbage, carrots, and sliced bell pepper. Continue stir-frying for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Make the Sauce: While the vegetables cook, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce (if using), ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl to create a flavorful stir-fry sauce.
- Combine and Simmer: Pour the sauce over the cooked meat and vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to evenly coat everything and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Serve: Garnish the stir fry with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately, either on its own or over steamed rice or noodles for a complete satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground pork with ground chicken, turkey, or beef depending on preference.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce and omit hoisin or find a gluten-free alternative.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
- This stir fry pairs well with steamed jasmine rice or your favorite noodles.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in a skillet or microwave.
