Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this recipe a favorite for me is how easy it is to prepare and how well the flavors come together with minimal effort. The sesame oil and soy sauce add rich umami depth, while the garlic and ginger provide warmth and zest. The cole slaw mix keeps the dish light and crunchy, making it a perfect low-carb alternative to traditional stir-fries or noodle dishes. Plus, it’s very customizable to suit your preferred spice level or sweetness.

Ingredients

(Herе’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs ground beef or turkey
2 bags cole slaw mix
4 green onions, chopped
3 tsp minced garlic
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp sesame oil
2 tsp red pepper flakes
2 tsp ground ginger
Optional: 1 packet Splenda

Directions

Brown the ground beef or turkey in a large pan over medium-high heat until fully cooked and browned. Drain any excess fat.

In a separate large pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the soy sauce, chopped green onions, and minced garlic. Stir-fry for a couple of minutes until fragrant.

Add the cole slaw mix, red pepper flakes, and ground ginger to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly tender but still retain a crisp texture.

Combine the browned meat with the vegetable mixture, stirring until everything is well incorporated.

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want a touch of sweetness, I sometimes add a packet of Splenda or extra soy sauce to balance the flavors.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. Total cooking time is approximately 25-30 minutes, making it a fast and filling meal ideal for busy weeknights.

Variations

I like to add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to boost the veggie content and add extra texture. For a little crunch, toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top work great. If you prefer more heat, increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a dash of sriracha can turn up the spice level. Using ground turkey keeps it leaner, while beef adds a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I reheat portions in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The cole slaw mix stays relatively crisp even after reheating, but if you prefer, you can add fresh green onions when serving to freshen it up.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of beef or turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well in this recipe and is a lean alternative. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Soy sauce contains gluten unless you use a gluten-free version such as tamari. Using tamari keeps this dish gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian option, swap the ground meat for crumbled tofu or tempeh and increase the seasoning slightly to boost flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on the amount of red pepper flakes used. I usually start with 2 teaspoons but adjust to taste based on how spicy I want it.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving for best results.

Conclusion

I find this Low-Carb Crack Slaw to be an incredibly satisfying and easy meal that keeps cravings at bay without compromising on flavor. The balance of savory, spicy, and fresh ingredients makes it one of my favorite low-carb dishes to enjoy any night of the week. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a healthy lunch, this recipe delivers every time.