There’s something uniquely satisfying about the crispy, savory flavors of an egg roll. But let’s be honest—rolling, frying, and making a dozen individual egg rolls can sometimes feel like a task for a special occasion. Enter the “Inside-Out Egg Roll in a Bowl,” an inspired, deconstructed version of the beloved takeout favorite that brings all the flavor you love in a simpler, one-pan meal. It’s everything you adore about egg rolls—minus the wrapper and extra work!
This dish has become a go-to comfort food for many families, and it’s easy to see why. Whether it’s for a quick weekday dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, this recipe delivers bold flavors, crunchy textures, and wholesome ingredients in every bite. It’s the perfect marriage of convenience and taste, bringing together the umami goodness of a traditional egg roll with the ease of a stir-fry. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs.
I first made this dish on a chilly evening when I was craving my favorite Chinese takeout but wanted to whip up something lighter and healthier at home. The combination of tender beef sausage, vibrant vegetables, and the subtle warmth of spices made this meal an instant hit. Now it’s become a staple in my weekly dinner rotation, and I’m thrilled to share it with you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Takeout Alternative: Satisfy your craving for egg rolls without the deep-fried wrapper.
- Versatile and Customizable: Use ground lamb, beef sausage, or even turkey ham to make it your own.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a savory base that ties all the ingredients together.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1/2 lb beef sausage
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cups coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How to Make Inside-Out Egg Roll in a Bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Heat the Pan
Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sesame oil and allow it to warm up for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This nutty aroma will set the stage for your dish. - Cook the Meat
Add the ground lamb and beef sausage to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks, stirring frequently. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, if necessary, and set the meat aside. - Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic and ginger are aromatic. This step infuses your dish with a fragrant, flavorful base. - Add the Veggies
Toss in the coleslaw mix and shredded carrot. Stir everything together, letting the vegetables absorb the flavors from the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the cabbage begins to soften but still has a slight crunch. - Combine and Season
Return the cooked meat to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the soy sauce and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan. Stir well to coat everything evenly with the sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together. - Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, or portion it out into bowls for individual servings.
Helpful Tips:
- Make It Low-Carb: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and omit the carrots for a keto-friendly version.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Top with crushed, unsalted peanuts or almond slivers for extra texture.
- Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This dish reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Spice It Up: If you like more heat, add a splash of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option, Dairy-Free
Notes:
- For an extra boost of veggies, toss in some sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli florets during the cooking process.
- If you want to make this dish vegetarian, swap the lamb and beef sausage for crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat.
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving, approximately)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 18g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can! Let the cooked dish cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I use different proteins?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute can be used. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I serve this with?
This dish is perfect on its own, but you can pair it with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa for a heartier meal.
Storage Instructions:
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of soy sauce or water to refresh the flavors.
Related Recipes:
If you loved this recipe, try these other flavor-packed dishes:
-
Cherry Cheesecake Egg Rolls: A Crispy, Sweet Treat You’ll Love
-
Deviled Egg Salad: A Creamy, Tangy Delight Perfect for Any Occasion
Conclusion:
Inside-Out Egg Roll in a Bowl is one of those magical recipes that combines ease, flavor, and versatility in every bite. It’s the perfect dish to whip up when you’re craving takeout flavors but want a healthier and quicker alternative. With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this dish is a comforting reminder that homemade meals can be just as satisfying as your favorite restaurant orders. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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Inside-Out Egg Roll in a Bowl
Description
There’s something uniquely satisfying about the crispy, savory flavors of an egg roll. But let’s be honest—rolling, frying, and making a dozen individual egg rolls can sometimes feel like a task for a special occasion. Enter the “Inside-Out Egg Roll in a Bowl,” an inspired, deconstructed version of the beloved takeout favorite that brings all the flavor you love in a simpler, one-pan meal. It’s everything you adore about egg rolls—minus the wrapper and extra work!
This dish has become a go-to comfort food for many families, and it’s easy to see why. Whether it’s for a quick weekday dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, this recipe delivers bold flavors, crunchy textures, and wholesome ingredients in every bite. It’s the perfect marriage of convenience and taste, bringing together the umami goodness of a traditional egg roll with the ease of a stir-fry. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs.
I first made this dish on a chilly evening when I was craving my favorite Chinese takeout but wanted to whip up something lighter and healthier at home. The combination of tender beef sausage, vibrant vegetables, and the subtle warmth of spices made this meal an instant hit. Now it’s become a staple in my weekly dinner rotation, and I’m thrilled to share it with you!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1/2 lb beef sausage
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cups coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Heat the Pan
Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sesame oil and allow it to warm up for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This nutty aroma will set the stage for your dish. - Cook the Meat
Add the ground lamb and beef sausage to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks, stirring frequently. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, if necessary, and set the meat aside. - Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic and ginger are aromatic. This step infuses your dish with a fragrant, flavorful base. - Add the Veggies
Toss in the coleslaw mix and shredded carrot. Stir everything together, letting the vegetables absorb the flavors from the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the cabbage begins to soften but still has a slight crunch. - Combine and Season
Return the cooked meat to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the soy sauce and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan. Stir well to coat everything evenly with the sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together. - Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve hot, straight from the skillet, or portion it out into bowls for individual servings.
Notes
- For an extra boost of veggies, toss in some sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli florets during the cooking process.
- If you want to make this dish vegetarian, swap the lamb and beef sausage for crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat.