A simple yet flavor-packed dish, these Thai Basil Beef Rolls are wrapped in fresh lettuce and loaded with savory, spicy, and aromatic notes. Made with just five core ingredients, it’s a perfect quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on authenticity or satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this dish because it’s quick, healthy, and full of bold Thai-inspired flavors without needing a long list of ingredients. I can whip it up in just 15 minutes, which makes it a lifesaver on busy weeknights. The fresh basil gives the beef an herby aroma that instantly elevates the meal. Plus, I can enjoy it low-carb by serving it in lettuce wraps, or add rice for a more filling dinner.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon oil (e.g., sesame or vegetable)
1/4 cup soy sauce or coconut aminos
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup Thai basil leaves, loosely packed
Optional: fresh lettuce leaves for wrapping, chopped chilies, lime wedges
Directions
I heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
I add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Then I add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
I stir in the soy sauce and Thai basil leaves. Next I cook for another 1–2 minutes until the basil wilts and the sauce is absorbed.
I remove the pan from the heat and serve the beef warm in lettuce leaves, topping with chopped chilies and lime juice if I want extra flavor.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 5 minutes of prep time, 10 minutes of cooking, and a total of 15 minutes to get on the table. Each serving has around 265 calories.
Variations
I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, or pork to switch up the protein.
I add chopped red chilies or a drizzle of sriracha if I want more spice.
Then I serve it with steamed rice or rice noodles when I want a heartier meal.
For a paleo or Whole30 option, I stick to coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the beef in a skillet over medium heat until hot, or I use the microwave for about 1–2 minutes. I always keep the lettuce separate and wrap fresh just before serving.
Related Recipes:
- Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
- Southwest Sweet Potato, Black Bean, and Rice Skillet
- Avocado Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, I can cook the beef mixture ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. I just make sure to use fresh lettuce leaves for wrapping.
What can I use instead of Thai basil?
If I can’t find Thai basil, I use regular basil or even fresh cilantro for a different twist.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if I use coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, this dish is naturally gluten-free.
Can I freeze Thai Basil Beef?
Yes, I can freeze the cooked beef mixture for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in a skillet before serving.
What sides go well with Thai Basil Beef Rolls?
I like to serve them with cucumber salad, steamed vegetables, or a simple jasmine rice to balance the flavors.
Conclusion
I love how easy and versatile these Thai Basil Beef Rolls are. With just a handful of ingredients, I get a meal that’s bursting with flavor and ready in minutes. Whether I’m looking for a light, low-carb dinner or a quick weeknight favorite, this recipe always delivers.
📖 Recipe:
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Thai Basil Beef Rolls
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dish featuring savory ground beef, fresh Thai basil, and aromatic garlic, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb, Thai-inspired meal ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon oil (e.g., sesame or vegetable)
1/4 cup soy sauce or coconut aminos
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup Thai basil leaves, loosely packed
Optional: fresh lettuce leaves for wrapping
Optional: chopped chilies
Optional: lime wedges
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
- Stir in the soy sauce and Thai basil leaves. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the basil wilts and the sauce is absorbed.
- Remove the pan from the heat and serve the beef warm in lettuce leaves, topping with chopped chilies and lime juice if desired.
Notes
Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free or paleo version.
Swap ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or pork for variation.
Serve with rice or rice noodles for a more filling meal.
Keep lettuce separate if storing and wrap fresh before serving.
Reheat leftovers in a skillet or microwave; store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
