Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

I discovered these Asian-style ground beef lettuce wraps one hectic weeknight when I had very little time and even less energy to cook something elaborate. I opened the fridge and spotted some leftover ground beef and fresh lettuce, and right then an idea sparked. I pulled together a quick, savory sauce with a few pantry staples, tossed everything into a skillet, and hoped for the best. And let me tell you it was love at first bite.

Since then, I’ve made these wraps more times than I can count because they’re incredibly easy to whip up and always disappear within minutes. Whether it’s for a light lunch or an appetizer when guests come over, these lettuce wraps always hit the mark with their perfect blend of umami, crunch, and freshness.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Ground beef – Provides a hearty, savory filling that soaks up the sauce beautifully
• Garlic – Brings in a sharp, fragrant depth of flavor
• Ginger – Adds brightness and an unmistakable warmth
• Soy sauce – The salty umami base for the sauce
• Hoisin sauce – Lends a sweet and tangy richness
• Rice vinegar – Balances the sweetness with mild acidity
• Sesame oil – Infuses a toasty, nutty aroma
• Green onions – Offer a pop of freshness and color
• Sesame seeds – Add subtle crunch and visual flair
• Lettuce leaves – Act as crisp, refreshing cups to hold the filling

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet – To cook the ground beef and blend it with the sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For breaking up the meat and stirring everything evenly
• Measuring spoons – To get the sauce balance just right
• Mixing bowl – If you prefer to combine the sauce ingredients before adding them to the pan
• Serving plate – For arranging the lettuce wraps beautifully

Instructions

Step 1:

I begin by heating a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 2:

Next, I add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. I cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, which takes about 6–7 minutes.

Step 3:

Once the beef is cooked, I stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4:

In a small bowl, I whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and a splash of sesame oil.

Step 5:

I pour the sauce mixture over the beef, stir everything to coat evenly, and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors can meld.

Step 6:

Then, I remove the skillet from heat and stir in chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Step 7:

To serve, I spoon the beef mixture into individual lettuce leaves and arrange them on a platter.

Tips

If you want a spicy kick, I recommend adding a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce. I’ve also tried these wraps with ground turkey and even plant-based crumbles—they work great too! If your lettuce is a bit flimsy, layer two leaves together for extra support.

Ways to Serve

I love serving these wraps as a light dinner on warm days or as an appetizer for gatherings. They pair beautifully with a side of jasmine rice or a chilled cucumber salad. Sometimes I set up a DIY wrap station so everyone can build their own—it’s always a hit!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and reheat it before serving. Just keep the lettuce separate until ready to assemble.

What type of lettuce is best for Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps?

I recommend using butter lettuce, romaine, or even iceberg. Just make sure the leaves are sturdy enough to hold the filling.

Are Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can easily make them gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and checking that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these Asian-style ground beef lettuce wraps a try! They’re quick, packed with flavor, and so much fun to eat. Let me know how they turn out for you—I’d love to hear your twist on them. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next busy weeknight dinner or casual get-together.

Happy Cooking!

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