Egg Roll in a Bowl – Easy Keto, Paleo, One-Skillet Dinner

There’s something about the crispy, savory goodness of an egg roll that’s just irresistible. But let’s be honest—sometimes you want all that flavor without the greasy wrapper and deep-frying. That’s where this Egg Roll in a Bowl comes in. It’s everything you love about a classic egg roll, just deconstructed and served in a lighter, easier, one-skillet version.

This recipe has been a total game-changer in my weekly dinner rotation. It’s quick, filling, and absolutely bursting with bold, satisfying flavors. You get that delicious mix of ground turkey (or pork), sautéed cabbage, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce—all coming together with a drizzle of toasted sesame oil for a nutty finish. It smells like your favorite takeout spot, but it’s homemade, wholesome, and ready in just 30 minutes.

I first made this dish on a weeknight when I had zero energy and even less time. The fridge had a half-used bag of coleslaw mix, a pound of ground turkey, and some lonely ginger root begging to be used. A few experiments later, this recipe was born. And let me tell you—it’s become a regular for good reason.

Whether you’re following a keto, paleo, or Whole30 plan—or you just want something fast and healthy—this Egg Roll in a Bowl will be your new go-to. It’s cozy, colorful, and packed with nutrients. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since it all comes together in just one skillet. So let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe is one of those magical meals that checks all the boxes. Here’s why it needs to be in your weekly dinner lineup:

Quick and Easy: You only need about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a total lifesaver on busy nights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

One Skillet Wonder: Less mess, less stress. Everything cooks in one pan, which makes cleanup incredibly easy.

Packed with Flavor: Thanks to garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil, every bite is savory, slightly tangy, and full of umami. You won’t miss the egg roll wrapper one bit.

Customizable: You can use turkey, chicken, or pork. You can add heat, skip the carrots, or swap in coconut aminos for a Whole30-friendly twist.

Healthy but Satisfying: Loaded with lean protein and fiber-rich veggies, this dish leaves you feeling full without weighing you down.

Kid-Approved: It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters. Even kids love the fun of “deconstructed egg rolls” on their plate.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up dinner on the fly, this recipe is a keeper. And best of all, it tastes like comfort food—but way better for you.

Health Benefits

Aside from being delicious, this Egg Roll in a Bowl is also packed with nutritious goodness. Let’s break it down:

Lean Protein: Ground turkey or chicken offers a solid source of protein to help build muscle, support metabolism, and keep you full.

High Fiber: The cabbage and carrots are not only flavorful but also rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar.

Low in Carbs: This recipe is naturally low-carb, making it perfect for keto and paleo diets. There’s no rice, no wrappers—just clean, satisfying ingredients.

Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger have powerful anti-inflammatory properties and add immune-boosting benefits.

Gluten-Free Option: By using tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce, you can make this dish completely gluten-free.

Low in Sugar: With no added sugar and a naturally low-sugar profile, this dish supports blood sugar balance and overall energy levels.

So not only does this egg roll in a bowl taste amazing, but it’s also doing your body all kinds of favors.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 293 kcal
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 7g
Sodium: 1367mg
Sugar: 10g

This dish is light on calories but rich in flavor and protein, making it perfect for a healthy, filling dinner.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you need to make this savory one-pan meal:

• 1 lb ground turkey or ground chicken/pork: A lean and flavorful protein that cooks quickly.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided): Used for cooking the meat and veggies.
• 1 small sweet onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: A must-have for bold flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Gives the dish a zesty, warming kick.
• 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds crunch, color, and a touch of sweetness.
• 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced (or 1 bag coleslaw mix): The star vegetable that soaks up all the sauce.
• ¼ cup chicken broth: Helps deglaze the pan and adds moisture.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce, tamari, or coconut aminos: The base of the savory sauce—go gluten-free or Whole30 as needed.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the sauce.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: For seasoning.
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil: Adds that iconic nutty finish that pulls everything together.

Optional Toppings

• Chopped green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Sriracha mayo
• Cooked white or brown rice (for non-keto option)

These toppings are totally optional but can add extra flavor and texture if you want to take things up a notch.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

This recipe comes together fast, so have your ingredients prepped before you start cooking.

1. Cook the Ground Meat:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey (or pork/chicken) and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s mostly cooked through—about 5 to 6 minutes. Break it into crumbles as it cooks.
2. Sauté the Onion:
   Push the meat to the side of the skillet or transfer it to a plate. Add a drizzle of olive oil and the diced onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until it softens and becomes translucent.
3. Add Garlic, Ginger, and Carrots:
   Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and shredded carrots. Sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
   Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds tons of flavor.
5. Add the Cabbage and Sauce:
   Return the cooked meat to the pan (if removed) and add the sliced cabbage or coleslaw mix. Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Steam and Cook:
   Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the mixture cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Finish with Sesame Oil:
   Drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the dish and stir one last time. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   Spoon the mixture into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Serve as-is for a low-carb meal, or over rice for something heartier.

How to Serve

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in several ways:

• In a bowl with your favorite toppings like green onions or sesame seeds
• Over steamed white or brown rice for a more filling meal
• With a side of cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb
• Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a handheld version
• Topped with a drizzle of sriracha mayo for a spicy kick

Pairing Suggestions

To round out your meal, here are some easy sides and drinks that pair beautifully with this dish:

• Side Dishes:
  • Steamed edamame with sea salt
  • Simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar
  • Stir-fried green beans or bok choy
  • Cauliflower rice with lime and cilantro
• Beverage Options:
  • Sparkling water with lemon or lime
  • Unsweetened iced green tea
  • A refreshing cucumber and mint spritzer

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This dish holds up surprisingly well in the fridge, making it a great meal prep option.

Storage:
Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
While you can freeze this dish, it’s not ideal. The cabbage tends to release water and can become soggy when thawed.

Reheating:
For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Cabbage: You want it tender but still slightly crisp. Don’t let it turn to mush.
• Not Draining Fat (if using pork): If your meat releases excess grease, drain it before adding the veggies.
• Using Too Much Sauce: Stick to the measurements to avoid a soggy dish.
• Skipping Fresh Ginger: The flavor is worth it—don’t substitute with powder unless necessary.
• Crowding the Pan: Use a large enough skillet to give the ingredients room to cook evenly.

Pro Tips

• Pre-Shred Your Veggies: Save time by using a bag of coleslaw mix.
• Cook Meat First: Browning the meat first locks in flavor and makes layering easier.
• Add Crunch with Water Chestnuts: For texture, toss in a small can of drained sliced water chestnuts.
• Boost the Spice: Add red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha if you like heat.
• Don’t Skip the Sesame Oil: It adds richness and depth—make it your final step.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes, just be sure to drain excess fat if it’s a fattier cut.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap the ground meat for crumbled tofu or sautéed mushrooms and add extra veggies.

Is this good for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well for several days and reheats beautifully.

Can I add eggs to this dish?
Yes, scrambled eggs stirred in at the end are a great addition.

Is this recipe spicy?
No, but you can easily add spice with sriracha, chili flakes, or hot sauce.

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

How do I keep the cabbage from going soggy?
Don’t overcook it and make sure to sauté uncovered once the liquid is absorbed.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A skillet over medium heat works best to maintain texture.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Egg Roll in a Bowl brings all the savory goodness of your favorite takeout order in a light, easy, and healthy package. Whether you’re sticking to keto, eating paleo, or just looking for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this one’s a winner.

Give it a try and make it your own with the toppings and tweaks that fit your style. When you do, I’d love to see your creations! Tag your dish on Instagram or leave a comment sharing how it turned out.

Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated—and this one-pan wonder proves it. Ready in 30, big on flavor, and totally satisfying. Let’s get cooking.

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