These Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps bring together tender ground beef, crisp vegetables, and a rich sesame-ginger sauce all wrapped in cool, fresh lettuce leaves. I love how quick and satisfying this dish is—perfect for a light dinner or a fun appetizer. The mix of savory and sweet flavors with a touch of heat makes every bite memorable.

Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I find this recipe incredibly versatile and easy to adapt. The beef is juicy and full of flavor, and the vegetables add just the right crunch. The sauce ties everything together with a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy finish. Whether I’m serving it as a low-carb main or a starter with rice on the side, it never disappoints. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and paleo-friendly with the right ingredient swaps.

Ingredients

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

Lettuce Wrap Sauce

¼ cup maple syrup, brown sugar, or coconut sugar
¼ cup coconut aminos, tamari, or soy sauce
2 teaspoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
¼ – ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 teaspoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch

Ground Beef Filling

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced
½ cup shredded carrots
4 whole green onions, sliced into 1” pieces
Kosher salt, to taste
Ground pepper, to taste
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Boston Bibb lettuce (or romaine or iceberg lettuce)
Steamed white rice or sautéed cauliflower rice (optional, for serving)

Directions

Prepare the Sauce: I start by whisking together the maple syrup, coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Then I mix in the arrowroot powder until smooth and set it aside.
Cook the Ground Beef: I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, I add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks for about 5 minutes, until browned.
Add Aromatics: I stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything smells amazing.
Incorporate Vegetables: I add the red bell pepper and shredded carrots and let them soften for about 3–4 minutes.
Combine with Sauce: I pour in the prepared sauce, stirring it all together and letting it simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
Finish and Serve: Finally, I stir in the green onions. I spoon the mixture into lettuce cups, sprinkle on some sesame seeds, and serve with rice or cauliflower rice if I want something extra on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Protein Options: I sometimes switch things up with ground chicken, turkey, or bison for a new flavor.
Vegetable Add-ins: I like to toss in shredded cabbage, zucchini, or even mushrooms to bulk it up.
Spice Level: For more heat, I add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha.
Dietary Adjustments: When I want to keep it low-carb, I skip the rice and go for cauliflower rice instead.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I keep the beef filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: I reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezing: The beef mixture freezes well. I store it for up to 3 months and thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

I use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep everything gluten-free.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, I often make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. It saves time when I’m ready to cook.

What lettuce is best for wraps?

I prefer Boston Bibb lettuce for its tender, cup-shaped leaves, but romaine or iceberg works too.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. I’ve made it with ground turkey, and it’s just as flavorful—plus a bit leaner.

Is this recipe suitable for a paleo diet?

Yes, I use coconut aminos and serve it with cauliflower rice to keep it paleo-friendly.

Conclusion

These Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are one of my go-to meals when I want something light yet full of flavor. They’re easy to throw together, fun to eat, and endlessly customizable. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just cooking for myself, this recipe always hits the spot.