Nothing beats the comforting flavors of an egg roll, but without all the fuss of frying or rolling—enter the Egg Roll in a Bowl (One-Skillet, Keto). This dish captures everything you love about a classic egg roll in a quick, easy, and low-carb skillet meal. Imagine savory ground turkey mingling with crunchy cabbage, fresh ginger, and garlic, all tied together with a splash of soy sauce and toasted sesame oil. It’s a vibrant, cozy bowl of goodness that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave those iconic flavors in a healthier, simpler way.

Egg Roll in a Bowl (One-Skillet, Keto) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each bringing a unique element to create a balanced and flavorful dish. From the sweetness of fresh carrots to the warm spice of ginger, every component matters and comes together beautifully.

2 tablespoons olive oil divided: Helps to brown the turkey and soften the veggies, giving a lovely depth of flavor.
1 pound ground turkey: A lean protein base that soaks up the seasonings perfectly.
1 small sweet onion finely diced: Adds a natural sweetness and subtle crunch once cooked.
1 cup shredded carrots: Brings color and a hint of sweetness to balance the savory notes.
3 garlic cloves finely minced: Infuses the dish with that essential aromatic warmth.
1 teaspoon finely minced fresh ginger: Gives a fresh, zesty kick that brightens the flavors.
¼ cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and adds savory richness.
1 small head cabbage (about 8 cups shredded): The hearty, crunchy star that replaces egg roll wrappers with fibrous goodness.
3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari: Delivers that classic umami depth essential for authentic flavor.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a pleasant tanginess that cuts through the richness.
¾ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors simultaneously while seasoning perfectly.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides mild heat and complexity.
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: The final aromatic flourish that rounds out the dish beautifully.

How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl (One-Skillet, Keto)

Step 1: Brown the Turkey

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it’s almost fully cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Browning the meat first develops a rich foundation of flavor that will carry throughout the whole dish.

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Aromatics

Push the turkey to one side of the skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the finely diced sweet onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and slightly caramelized. Add the shredded carrots, minced garlic, and ginger next, stirring frequently. Cook everything for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Deglaze and Add Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, using a spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck on the bottom of the pan—this adds a beautiful richness. The broth ensures the veggies stay tender and moist as they cook down with the meat.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cabbage and Seasonings

Add the shredded cabbage to your skillet, followed by the soy sauce or tamari, rice vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to combine, then cover the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 12 to 15 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still has a bit of bite to it.

Step 5: Finish with Sesame Oil

Remove the lid and stir in the toasted sesame oil. This last step adds a toasty, nutty aroma that elevates the dish and really seals the deal on the Egg Roll in a Bowl (One-Skillet, Keto) flavor profile.

How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl (One-Skillet, Keto)

Garnishes

Toppings are where you can get creative and add that extra dimension. Thinly sliced green onions add a fresh bite and pop of color. Toasted sesame seeds bring a subtle crunch and nutty flavor. If you love a bit of heat or creaminess, drizzle sriracha mayo on top for a spicy, tangy kick.

Side Dishes

While this recipe is satisfying on its own, serving it over cooked white rice can turn it into a heartier meal and soak up the delicious juices. For a keto-friendly option, try cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli on the side for a fresh, green balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Egg Roll in a Bowl (One-Skillet, Keto) in crispy lettuce cups for a fun, handheld option that mimics the feel of an egg roll wrapper. Another idea is to spoon it over ramen noodles or spiralized zucchini for a fusion twist that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Egg Roll in a Bowl stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it a fantastic choice for easy meal prep lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers by placing cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or baggies. For best quality, consume within 2 months. When thawed, the texture of the cabbage may soften further but the flavor will remain delicious.

Reheating

Reheat your Egg Roll in a Bowl gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it feels dry to keep the cabbage nice and tender without drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground beef works wonderfully in this recipe and adds a richer flavor. Just be sure to drain any excess fat to keep it from getting greasy.

Is this recipe suitable for strict keto diets?

Yes, using ground turkey and loads of cabbage keeps it low carb and keto-friendly. Skip the rice and enjoy it as is or with keto-friendly sides for a perfect keto meal.

What can I substitute for soy sauce if I want it gluten-free?

Tamari is a fantastic gluten-free substitute with similar flavor. Coconut aminos also work well for those avoiding soy altogether.

Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?

Sure! Substitute ground turkey with tofu, tempeh, or plant-based crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the flavors balanced.

How spicy is this dish?

The base recipe isn’t spicy, but the garlic and ginger add warmth. You can easily customize the heat level by adding sriracha mayo or chili flakes as a garnish.

Final Thoughts

The Egg Roll in a Bowl (One-Skillet, Keto) is a delightful, fuss-free dish that brings all the deliciousness of your favorite takeout in a wholesome, home-cooked format. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh off the stove or packing it for later, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful layers of flavor in every bite!