For those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, finding satisfying meals that are quick to prepare and full of flavor can be a challenge. That’s where this easy crack slaw recipe comes in. Packed with savory ground meat, tender cabbage, and a blend of Asian-inspired seasonings, crack slaw is a delicious, fuss-free dish that fits well into weeknight dinners, meal prep routines, or even lunchboxes. It’s hearty, satisfying, and best of all, incredibly simple to make with just a few basic ingredients.
What Is Crack Slaw?
A Low-Carb Stir Fry with Big Flavor
Crack slaw, sometimes known as egg roll in a bowl, is a low-carb stir fry made primarily with ground beef or pork, shredded cabbage, and a flavorful sauce. The name comes from its addictive taste once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. It’s become especially popular among keto and paleo communities due to its simplicity and low-carb content.
Customizable and Family-Friendly
This dish is easy to adjust based on dietary preferences, spice levels, or available ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for one or a whole family, crack slaw is a reliable go-to meal that’s both nourishing and fast. You can make it in a single pan, and it’s ready to serve in under 30 minutes.
Essential Ingredients for Easy Crack Slaw
Protein Base
Ground meat is the backbone of crack slaw. Common choices include:
- Ground beef rich and flavorful
- Ground pork juicy with natural fat
- Ground turkey or chicken leaner options
Choose the meat that best suits your dietary needs or what you already have in the fridge.
Cabbage and Vegetables
Cabbage is the key vegetable in this recipe, mimicking the texture of traditional egg roll filling. You can use:
- Green cabbage, finely shredded
- Coleslaw mix, for convenience
- Red cabbage, for extra color
Other veggies you can include for added flavor and texture:
- Carrots (grated or thinly sliced)
- Bell peppers
- Green onions or scallions
- Mushrooms or bean sprouts
The Sauce
The sauce brings the whole dish together. Typical components include:
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Sesame oil
- Garlic and ginger, fresh or powdered
- Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Optional: Sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat
This combination creates a balance of savory, tangy, and spicy notes that elevate the dish.
Easy Crack Slaw Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or pork
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Add sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir for 12 minutes until fragrant.
- Add shredded cabbage to the skillet. Toss well to combine with the meat and seasonings.
- Pour in soy sauce, vinegar, and sriracha. Stir everything together and cook for about 57 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Remove from heat. Stir in green onions.
- Garnish with sesame seeds if desired, and serve hot.
Ways to Customize Your Crack Slaw
Spice It Up
If you love heat, you can crank up the spice by adding extra sriracha, crushed red pepper flakes, or even fresh chopped chili peppers. A little heat complements the savory meat and cabbage perfectly.
Make It Vegan or Vegetarian
To create a plant-based version of crack slaw, simply replace the meat with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or plant-based ground meat. Use tamari or coconut aminos to keep it gluten-free and soy-sensitive.
Use Different Proteins
Crack slaw is extremely adaptable when it comes to protein. Here are some other great options:
- Shrimp or diced chicken breast
- Leftover grilled meats
- Fried or scrambled eggs for extra richness
Add Extra Crunch
For an extra layer of texture, consider topping your crack slaw with toasted nuts or seeds. Chopped peanuts, cashews, or sunflower seeds work beautifully. You can also add crispy fried onions or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb crunch.
Meal Prep and Storage
Perfect for Batch Cooking
Easy crack slaw is a favorite among meal preppers because it stores and reheats well. Make a large batch and divide it into airtight containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
How to Store
- Refrigerator: Store in a sealed container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze cooked crack slaw for up to 1 month. Just be aware that cabbage may lose some texture when thawed.
Reheating Tips
Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if it seems dry.
Why Crack Slaw Is So Popular
Low-Carb and Keto Friendly
With just a few carbs per serving, crack slaw is an ideal meal for those on keto, Atkins, or other low-carb diets. It’s high in healthy fats and protein, making it filling and satisfying without relying on starches or grains.
Quick and Easy to Prepare
All you need is one pan, a handful of ingredients, and 25 minutes. There’s no need for complicated steps or exotic items, and the cleanup is minimal. It’s a stress-free meal that fits into busy weeknights.
Family-Approved
Crack slaw is also a hit with kids and picky eaters. The mild cabbage flavor blends well with the meat and sauce, and you can always tweak the seasoning to suit different taste buds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve It On Its Own
Crack slaw is complete as a standalone meal, offering protein, fiber, and fat in one bowl. It’s satisfying without any sides needed.
Over Cauliflower Rice
If you want to bulk it up, serve it over cauliflower rice or even steamed vegetables. This keeps the dish low-carb but more filling.
In Lettuce Wraps
Spoon crack slaw into lettuce leaves for a handheld, low-carb meal that’s fun to eat and great for parties or meal prep boxes.
This easy crack slaw recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking fast, healthy, and flavorful meals. Whether you’re on a keto diet, cutting carbs, or just looking for something new to cook, crack slaw delivers on all fronts. It’s flexible, satisfying, and endlessly customizable to fit your tastes. Keep it in your meal rotation for a reliable, no-fuss dish that hits the spot every time.