Easy Egg Roll in a Bowl (Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Stir-Fry)

Craving the flavors of your favorite takeout egg rolls—without the deep frying or carb-heavy wrappers? This Easy Egg Roll in a Bowl delivers all the savory, gingery goodness of the classic dish, but in a low-carb, keto-friendly format that’s ready in 20 minutes or less. It’s satisfying, high-protein, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

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Introduction

Egg rolls are a beloved comfort food—crispy, savory, and packed with flavorful fillings. But if you’re following a low-carb, keto, or clean eating lifestyle, traditional egg rolls are off the table. Enter: Egg Roll in a Bowl.

This deconstructed version skips the wrapper but keeps everything you love about the inside—tender ground meat, crunchy cabbage, garlic, sesame, soy, and a touch of ginger. It’s a stir-fry-style dish that tastes just like your favorite takeout, minus the carbs and heaviness.

One-pan, high in protein, and endlessly customizable, this recipe has earned its place as a weeknight staple for anyone eating low-carb, paleo, or Whole30. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.

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Ingredient Overview: Inside the Bowl

Let’s walk through the flavorful ingredients that make this dish taste just like an egg roll—without the wrapper.

1. Ground Pork or Ground Turkey

Ground pork is the traditional choice for egg rolls and brings rich flavor. Ground turkey or chicken offers a leaner alternative. Choose what fits your preferences and dietary needs.

2. Cabbage (Green or Coleslaw Mix)

Cabbage is the heart of this dish. It provides crunch, volume, and fiber while mimicking the texture of an egg roll’s filling. Pre-shredded coleslaw mix makes this recipe even faster.

3. Carrots

Finely shredded carrots add natural sweetness and color. If you’re strict keto, you can reduce the amount or omit entirely.

4. Garlic and Ginger

Fresh minced garlic and ginger provide a punch of flavor and give the dish that signature egg roll depth.

5. Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos

Soy sauce brings salt and umami, while coconut aminos are perfect for a gluten-free or paleo version. Either way, it’s what ties the flavors together.

6. Sesame Oil

Just a drizzle at the end adds a nutty, toasted depth that’s essential for egg roll flavor.

7. Green Onions

They add freshness, bite, and a little brightness at the end of cooking.

8. Optional Toppings

Add a soft-boiled egg, sriracha drizzle, toasted sesame seeds, or avocado for extra richness and flavor.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

This one-skillet meal is fast and simple—here’s how to make your Egg Roll in a Bowl in under 20 minutes.

Step 1: Sauté the Meat

Heat 1 tbsp avocado or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound ground pork or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger

Once meat is fully cooked, stir in:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly so the garlic doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Stir in:

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage (or coleslaw mix)

• 1 cup shredded carrots

Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp. Don’t overcook—you want some crunch left.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Pour in:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos

• Optional: 1 tsp rice vinegar or hot sauce for tang or heat

Toss everything together and let cook for another 1–2 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

Step 5: Finish with Sesame Oil

Drizzle with 1 tsp toasted sesame oil and toss to coat.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha. Serve hot, straight from the pan.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Egg Roll in a Bowl is highly adaptable to fit your tastes or dietary restrictions.

Tips for Best Results

• Don’t overcook the cabbage—it should still have some bite.

• Fresh garlic and ginger make a huge flavor difference compared to powdered.

• Add sesame oil at the end to preserve its rich, nutty aroma.

Protein Options

• Use ground beef or chicken instead of pork.

• For a vegetarian version, try crumbled tofu or tempeh.

Low-Carb & Keto Swaps

• Skip the carrots or reduce to keep carbs ultra-low.

• Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lower-sodium, keto-friendly option.

Add More Veggies

• Mushrooms, red bell pepper, or zucchini all mix in well.

• Try napa cabbage or bok choy for variation.

Make It a Meal Prep

Store in containers with a soft-boiled egg or sliced avocado on the side for a quick, ready-to-go lunch.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish is just as good on a weeknight as it is for entertaining friends on a clean-eating plan.

Perfect For:

• Weeknight Dinners: One skillet and minimal cleanup.

• Meal Prep Lunches: Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Keto or Whole30 Plans: Fulfilling without added sugars or carbs.

• Takeout Cravings: All the flavor, none of the guilt.

Serve on its own or with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or lettuce wraps for extra bulk.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe hits all the right nutritional marks for low-carb, high-protein eating.

Nutritional Highlights:

• Low in Carbs: Only 4–6g net carbs per serving.

• High Protein: Ground meat and optional egg toppings keep you full.

• Fiber-Rich: Thanks to cabbage and veggies, this dish supports digestion and blood sugar stability.

• Anti-Inflammatory: Ginger, garlic, and sesame oil offer natural anti-inflammatory benefits.

Typical per serving (1 of 4):

• 280–350 calories

• 20g protein

• 5g net carbs

• 22g fat

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FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

2. What meat works best?

Ground pork has the most traditional flavor, but turkey, beef, or even ground chicken work well. Use what you prefer or have on hand.

3. Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes. Let it cool completely, then freeze in individual portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

4. How can I make it spicy?

Add sriracha, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce. You can also sauté a minced chili with the garlic and ginger for more heat.

5. Can I use a bagged slaw mix?

Definitely. It saves chopping time and includes both cabbage and carrots. Just check for added sugar if you’re strictly keto.

6. Is soy sauce keto-friendly?

Regular soy sauce is low in carbs, but some prefer coconut aminos due to gluten and soy sensitivities. Both work in this recipe.

7. How can I boost the protein even more?

Top with a fried or poached egg, or serve with a side of grilled shrimp or tofu for extra protein.

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