Name: Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 head butter, romaine, or iceberg lettuce (separated into leaves); 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, minced; 1/2 small onion or 2 scallions, finely chopped; 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari; 2 tbsp hoisin sauce or oyster sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tsp brown sugar or honey (optional); 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes or sriracha (optional); 1/2 cup shredded carrots or diced bell peppers (optional); 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or basil, chopped (for garnish); 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish); Salt and black pepper to taste

I adore these Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps—they’re crisp, flavorful, and satisfying. Seasoned ground beef wrapped in crunchy lettuce cups makes them light yet hearty, ideal for a fast and delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish balances savory, slightly sweet, and umami notes in every bite. The vibrant, crisp lettuce adds freshness, while the ground beef mixture is bursting with garlic, ginger, and soy-based flavor. It’s quick, healthy, and totally customizable—perfect for busy nights or light entertaining.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• Ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
• Lettuce leaves (butter, romaine, or iceberg)
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, minced
• Onion or scallions, finely chopped
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Hoisin sauce or oyster sauce
• Rice vinegar or lime juice
• Sesame oil
• Brown sugar or honey (optional, for balance)
• Red pepper flakes or sriracha (optional, for heat)
• Shredded carrots or diced bell peppers (optional veggie mix-ins)
• Fresh cilantro or basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

directions

I start by heating a drizzle of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. I add the chopped onion or scallions and sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
I stir in minced garlic and ginger and cook for another 30 seconds until aromatic.
I crumble in the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
I stir in soy sauce (or tamari), hoisin (or oyster sauce), and a splash of rice vinegar (or lime juice). I add a pinch of brown sugar or honey for balance and a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha if I want heat.
I toss in any optional veggies like shredded carrots or bell peppers and cook for another 2 minutes until they soften slightly.
I taste and adjust seasoning—adding more soy, vinegar, or sugar if needed.
I scoop the beef mixture into crisp lettuce leaves, garnish with chopped cilantro or basil and toasted sesame seeds.
I serve immediately, letting everyone build their own wraps at the table.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings (3–4 wraps each).
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~10 minutes
Total time: ~20 minutes

Variations

Protein swap: I use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles instead of beef.
Sauce twist: I add a spoonful of peanut butter or tahini for a creamy peanut flavor.
Flavor lift: I tweak the sauce by adding fish sauce, fresh lime zest, or a touch of hoisin.
Veggie boost: I toss in shredded cabbage, bean sprouts, or sliced mushrooms for extra crunch and nutrients.
Spicy version: I stir in chili garlic sauce or top with sliced jalapeños for heat lovers.

storage/reheating

I store leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh. I keep the lettuce separate and assemble fresh wraps just before eating for optimal crunch.

FAQs

Can I make these wraps ahead?

Yes—I prepare and refrigerate the beef filling and prep the lettuce leaves. When ready to eat, I reheat the meat, assemble the wraps, and top with fresh garnishes.

Are these wraps gluten-free?

Yes—if I use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce and ensure hoisin (or oyster sauce) is gluten-free.

Can I freeze the beef mixture?

I can—I freeze cooled beef filling in portions for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove before wrapping.

What lettuce works best?

I love butter, romaine, or iceberg—it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling yet tender and refreshing.

What can I serve alongside?

I like to serve these wraps with steamed rice or cauliflower rice, a light cucumber salad, or miso soup for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are one of my favorite quick, healthy dishes. I love how they bring bold flavors and fresh textures in a hand-held packet. They’re easy to prep, endlessly adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser—perfect for sharing or simple weeknight dinners.