There’s something undeniably comforting about meals that come together quickly but still feel like a little celebration at the table. These Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are exactly that—easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and wrapped in cool, crisp lettuce leaves that add the perfect crunch with every bite.
I remember the first time I had lettuce wraps—it was at a small, family-run restaurant tucked in the corner of a strip mall. The kind of place where you’re not quite sure what to expect until the food hits the table, and suddenly you realize you’ve just discovered something special. That first bite was unforgettable: tender, seasoned meat, tucked into lettuce leaves with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts and a drizzle of sauce. It was light, fresh, and totally satisfying.
Now, this recipe has become one of my go-to meals, especially when I want something quick but still wholesome. It’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or even a casual gathering with friends. Plus, there’s something fun and interactive about letting everyone assemble their own wraps right at the table.
These wraps are inspired by the balance of flavors found in Asian cuisine—savory, sweet, tangy, and just a hint of spice. And the best part? You can adjust the flavors to suit your taste or what you have in your pantry. They’re endlessly versatile and always a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and fresh: Packed with protein and veggies, low in carbs, and totally satisfying.
- Flavor-packed: A delicious mix of umami, spice, and crunch in every bite.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Fun to eat: Let everyone build their own wraps—it’s a hands-on meal that feels special.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- ¼ cup coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup chopped water chestnuts
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Butter lettuce or romaine leaves (for serving)
- Optional toppings: chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, extra sliced green onions
HOW TO MAKE GROUND BEEF LETTUCE WRAPS:
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, toss in the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and slightly golden—about 5 minutes. The aroma is incredible and instantly makes your kitchen feel warm and inviting. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute or two until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. This is where things start to come together—watch as the flavors build with every stir.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut aminos, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Pour this savory-sweet mixture over the cooked beef and stir well to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the sauce to soak into the meat. Your kitchen will smell amazing right about now.
Step 4: Mix in Veggies
Toss in the shredded carrots, chopped water chestnuts, and most of the green onions (save a few for topping!). Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the carrots are tender but still have a bit of bite. This adds a lovely texture contrast and just the right touch of sweetness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
To serve, spoon the beef mixture into individual lettuce leaves. Top with your favorite extras—chopped peanuts for crunch, sesame seeds for a little nuttiness, or fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. It’s like building your own perfect bite, every time.
HELPFUL TIPS:
- Use the right lettuce: Butter lettuce or romaine hearts work best because they’re sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart.
- Prep ahead: You can cook the beef filling in advance and store it in the fridge—just reheat and serve.
- Keep it low-carb: Skip the honey or reduce the amount to lower the sugar content.
- Add more crunch: Chopped cucumber or bell pepper slices are great fresh toppings.
- Make it spicy: Add a drizzle of sriracha or sprinkle in extra red pepper flakes if you like heat.
DETAILS:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Low Carb
NOTES:
If you’re looking to change things up, try this filling in a rice bowl instead of lettuce for a heartier meal. Or, wrap it in rice paper rolls for a fun twist on spring rolls. The versatility of this recipe makes it a true weeknight winner!
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 23g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I use another type of ground meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb would work well here.
What if I don’t have coconut aminos?
You can substitute with low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a similar flavor.
How do I keep the lettuce wraps from getting soggy?
Serve the lettuce separately and let everyone build their own wraps just before eating.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving. Store lettuce leaves separately to keep them crisp.
Related Recipes
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other fresh and flavorful dishes:
- Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
- Crispy Cheesy Ground Beef Tacos
- Korean-Style Ground Turkey Bowl
- Easy Korean Beef Bowl
CONCLUSION
Whether you’re looking for a light dinner, an easy meal prep option, or something fun for your next gathering, these Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps hit the spot every time. They’re flavorful, fresh, and endlessly adaptable. Once you try them, they just might become a regular in your weekly rotation. So grab a skillet and some lettuce leaves—your next delicious meal is only 30 minutes away.
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GROUND BEEF LETTUCE WRAPS
Description
There’s something undeniably comforting about meals that come together quickly but still feel like a little celebration at the table. These Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are exactly that—easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and wrapped in cool, crisp lettuce leaves that add the perfect crunch with every bite.
I remember the first time I had lettuce wraps—it was at a small, family-run restaurant tucked in the corner of a strip mall. The kind of place where you’re not quite sure what to expect until the food hits the table, and suddenly you realize you’ve just discovered something special. That first bite was unforgettable: tender, seasoned meat, tucked into lettuce leaves with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts and a drizzle of sauce. It was light, fresh, and totally satisfying.
Now, this recipe has become one of my go-to meals, especially when I want something quick but still wholesome. It’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or even a casual gathering with friends. Plus, there’s something fun and interactive about letting everyone assemble their own wraps right at the table.
These wraps are inspired by the balance of flavors found in Asian cuisine—savory, sweet, tangy, and just a hint of spice. And the best part? You can adjust the flavors to suit your taste or what you have in your pantry. They’re endlessly versatile and always a hit.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon avocado oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1½ pounds ground beef
¼ cup coconut aminos
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 cup shredded carrots
½ cup chopped water chestnuts
2 green onions, sliced
Butter lettuce or romaine leaves (for serving)
Optional toppings: chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, extra sliced green onions
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, toss in the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and slightly golden—about 5 minutes. The aroma is incredible and instantly makes your kitchen feel warm and inviting. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute or two until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. This is where things start to come together—watch as the flavors build with every stir.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut aminos, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Pour this savory-sweet mixture over the cooked beef and stir well to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the sauce to soak into the meat. Your kitchen will smell amazing right about now.
Step 4: Mix in Veggies
Toss in the shredded carrots, chopped water chestnuts, and most of the green onions (save a few for topping!). Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the carrots are tender but still have a bit of bite. This adds a lovely texture contrast and just the right touch of sweetness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
To serve, spoon the beef mixture into individual lettuce leaves. Top with your favorite extras—chopped peanuts for crunch, sesame seeds for a little nuttiness, or fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. It’s like building your own perfect bite, every time.
Notes
If you’re looking to change things up, try this filling in a rice bowl instead of lettuce for a heartier meal. Or, wrap it in rice paper rolls for a fun twist on spring rolls. The versatility of this recipe makes it a true weeknight winner!