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Beef Lettuce Wraps Recipe


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4.2 from 62 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These beef lettuce wraps are fresh, savory, and packed with flavor. Juicy, seasoned ground beef is spooned into crisp lettuce cups for a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights, appetizers, or low-carb eating.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil or olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For Serving

  • Butter lettuce, iceberg, or romaine leaves
  • Sliced green onions
  • Shredded carrots
  • Sesame seeds
  • Optional: chili sauce or sriracha


Instructions

  1. Heat oil: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables and beef.
  2. Cook onions: Add the finely diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  3. Add garlic and ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant to build aromatic flavor foundation.
  4. Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the dish lighter.
  5. Season the beef: Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), rice vinegar, and black pepper to coat the beef evenly with a savory, tangy sauce.
  6. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  7. Assemble wraps: Spoon the flavorful beef mixture into the lettuce leaves and top with sliced green onions, shredded carrots, sesame seeds, and optional chili sauce or sriracha as desired. Serve immediately for best texture and freshness.

Notes

  • Butter lettuce works best for soft, foldable wraps that hold fillings well without tearing.
  • Add chopped water chestnuts or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra crunch and texture variety.
  • Serve with rice on the side for those who prefer a more filling, non-low-carb meal.
  • Leftover beef stores well refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish, Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired