Inside Out Egg Roll (In a Bowl) – A Flavorful, Healthy Meal in Minutes

There’s something about the crispy, savory bite of an egg roll that makes it irresistible. But let’s be real—deep-fried wrappers, loads of oil, and hidden sugars don’t exactly scream “healthy.” That’s where this Inside Out Egg Roll, also known as Egg Roll in a Bowl, comes in. It’s everything you love about a classic egg roll—minus the deep fryer.

This dish is packed with bold flavors, crunchy textures, and a touch of spice. Instead of wrapping the filling in a shell, we keep things simple by tossing everything together in a single skillet. That means less mess, fewer dishes, and a meal that’s ready in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re craving takeout flavors, looking for a low-carb meal, or just need a quick, satisfying dinner, this recipe has got you covered.

One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is. You can use ground beef, turkey, chicken, or even shrimp. You can load it up with extra veggies, make it spicy, or keep it mild. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly, so it works for a variety of diets.

The first time I made this recipe, I was skeptical. Would it really give me that egg roll taste without the wrapper? But the first bite changed everything. The combination of sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, and fresh cabbage delivered that perfect umami-rich flavor. It was love at first bite, and now it’s a staple in my meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this Inside Out Egg Roll recipe, but let’s break down the highlights:

• Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in just 15-20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Meal: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this meal keeps you full and satisfied.
• Customizable: Use your favorite protein, adjust the spice level, and add extra veggies to make it your own.
• Diet-Friendly: This recipe is low-carb, gluten-free, dairy-free, and keto-friendly, making it great for a variety of dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge, so you can make a big batch and have lunch or dinner ready for days.

If you love takeout but want a healthier alternative, this dish is a game-changer. It delivers all the delicious flavors of an egg roll without the guilt.

Health Benefits

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a fantastic choice for a healthy meal. Let’s break it down:

High in Protein

The ground meat in this recipe provides a hefty dose of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, metabolism, and keeping you full longer. Depending on your protein choice, you can get anywhere from 20 to 30 grams of protein per serving.

Rich in Fiber

Cabbage, the star of this dish, is loaded with fiber, which aids digestion, supports gut health, and helps keep you satisfied. A serving of this meal can provide 3-5 grams of fiber, depending on how many veggies you add.

Low in Carbs

Unlike traditional egg rolls, which have a deep-fried wrapper, this Inside Out Egg Roll is naturally low-carb. That makes it a great option for anyone following a keto, paleo, or Whole30 diet.

Packed with Vitamins and Antioxidants

Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants that support immune function and overall health. Garlic and ginger also have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Healthy Fats from Sesame Oil

A small amount of sesame oil goes a long way in adding deep, nutty flavor while providing heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring, and this recipe proves that nutritious food can be just as satisfying as your favorite takeout.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 245
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 11g
• Sodium: 886mg

This meal is low in carbs, high in protein, and full of flavor, making it a perfect balanced meal.

Ingredients List

To make this Inside Out Egg Roll, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Protein Options:

• 1 pound ground beef, turkey, chicken, or shrimp (choose your favorite)

Vegetables:

• 4 cups coleslaw mix (or 6 cups thinly sliced cabbage)
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Seasonings & Sauces:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for that classic Asian-inspired flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, but adds depth)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce or sriracha (optional, for a spicy kick)

Optional Toppings:

• Sesame seeds
• Extra sriracha or chili flakes

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Cook the Protein

• Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• If using lean meat like ground turkey or chicken, add 1 teaspoon oil to prevent sticking.
• Add your ground meat and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked.

Add the Garlic and Spices

• Once the meat is cooked, add minced garlic, ground ginger, and onion powder.
• Stir well and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the Cabbage and Carrots

• Stir in coleslaw mix (or sliced cabbage) and shredded carrots.
• Pour in soy sauce, hot sauce (if using), and ground cloves.
• Toss everything together to coat the veggies in the sauce.

Let It Cook

• Cover the pan and let the cabbage soften for 2-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• If the mixture starts sticking, add 1-2 tablespoons of water.

Finish with Sesame Oil

• Remove from heat and drizzle with sesame oil. Stir well to combine.

Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve

There are so many ways to enjoy this dish:

• As-is for a low-carb meal
• Over steamed white or brown rice
• With cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option
• Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a fun, hand-held version
• With cooked noodles for a heartier meal

Pairing Suggestions

If you want a complete meal, consider serving this dish with:

• Miso soup
• A light cucumber salad
• Steamed dumplings (if not avoiding carbs)
• Fresh fruit like pineapple or mango

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Microwave in 30-second intervals or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water.

Creative Variations to Try

This recipe is already packed with flavor, but there are so many ways to switch things up! If you love a spicy kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili paste. For a heartier meal, toss in cooked rice or quinoa. Want extra crunch? Try adding crushed roasted peanuts or crispy fried onions on top. If you’re a fan of fusion flavors, drizzle with a little teriyaki sauce for a sweet-savory twist. You can also make a seafood version by swapping the meat for shrimp or even flaky white fish.

How to Make It Vegetarian or Vegan

If you’re looking for a plant-based version, it’s incredibly easy to adapt this recipe. Instead of ground meat, try crumbled tofu, tempeh, or even chopped mushrooms for a meaty texture. Jackfruit is another great option, as it absorbs flavors beautifully. For protein, add edamame or chickpeas. To keep it vegan, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and a little extra sesame oil to enhance the richness. The best part? A vegan version is just as quick and delicious!

Best Side Dishes to Complete the Meal

This dish is satisfying on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider pairing it with a side. A crisp Asian-style cucumber salad with sesame dressing adds a refreshing contrast. Steamed broccoli or bok choy works well for an extra veggie boost. If you’re not avoiding carbs, serve it with jasmine rice, fried rice, or even dumplings. A simple miso soup or hot and sour soup is also a great way to create a full, comforting meal.

How to Make It Even Faster for Meal Prep

Want to save even more time? Prep your ingredients in advance. Chop the cabbage, mince the garlic, and pre-mix the sauce so everything is ready to go. You can also cook a big batch of protein and store it in the fridge, making it easy to throw everything together in just minutes. Another great hack is using frozen stir-fry vegetables instead of fresh ones—they cook up fast and require no chopping. For meal prep, divide everything into containers so you have ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This meal is great for meal prep. Cook a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers even better. Just reheat and serve!

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too—just heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid uneven heating.

Can I freeze Inside Out Egg Roll?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It’ll keep for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan.

Can I use fresh cabbage instead of coleslaw mix?

Definitely. Just shred about 6 cups of fresh cabbage and use it in place of the coleslaw mix. You can also add shredded carrots for extra sweetness and color.

What protein works best for this recipe?

Ground beef, turkey, chicken, and pork all work beautifully. For a seafood version, try shrimp. If you want a vegetarian version, tofu or tempeh is a great substitute.

How can I make it spicier?

If you love heat, add more sriracha, red pepper flakes, or fresh sliced chili peppers. You can also mix in a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or a bit of hot mustard for an extra punch.

What are some good low-carb serving options?

If you’re keeping it low-carb, serve this dish on its own, over cauliflower rice, or in lettuce cups. Zucchini noodles also make a great alternative.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be! Just use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Most coleslaw mixes are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check ingredient labels if needed.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Inside Out Egg Roll in a Bowl is quick, healthy, and packed with flavor. If you try it, leave a comment and let me know how it turned out. Share a picture on social media and tag me—I love seeing your creations!

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