There’s something so satisfying about food you can eat with your hands—especially when it’s packed with bold flavors and fresh crunch.

These Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are one of those recipes I keep coming back to, whether I’m eating light or just craving something quick, sweet-savory, and utterly comforting.

Every bite hits the perfect balance—juicy beef, aromatic ginger and garlic, crunchy veggies, and a sticky-sweet sesame glaze that clings to it all.

Plus, it’s easy to meal-prep and naturally gluten-free when using coconut aminos or tamari!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

They come together in under 30 minutes, and they’re both family- and meal-prep-friendly.

I love that I can serve them on lettuce for a low-carb option or with rice for something more filling.

The sauce is honestly addictive—it’s that magical combo of sweet, salty, and slightly spicy that makes every bite pop.

Best of all? It’s pantry-friendly and customizable.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Ground Beef: Lean beef works best for a saucy yet not greasy filling.

Garlic + Fresh Ginger: Aromatic and essential for depth.

Red Bell Pepper + Carrots: Crunchy sweetness for contrast and color.

Green Onions: Add fresh bite at the end.

Lettuce Leaves: Boston Bibb lettuce is perfect—it’s soft, cuppable, and holds the filling well.

Maple Syrup & Coconut Aminos: The magic duo in the sauce—balanced sweet and savory.

Arrowroot Powder: Helps thicken the sauce just enough to cling to the beef.

Toasted Sesame Oil: Adds irresistible warmth and nuttiness.

Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but I love the slight heat they bring.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use fresh ginger if possible—it makes a world of difference.

If using soy sauce, opt for low-sodium to avoid salt overload.

Add the cornstarch or arrowroot after mixing the sauce base—this ensures no lumps.

Want it heartier? Spoon the filling over white rice or cauliflower rice.

How to Make Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

Step 1: Make the Sauce

In a bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together maple syrup, coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Once combined, whisk in arrowroot powder or cornstarch until smooth.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink—about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger.

Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and golden.

Step 4: Cook the Veggies

Add in the diced red bell pepper and shredded carrots.

Sauté for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still bright.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the skillet mixture.

Stir well, then let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Finish with Green Onions

Stir in the sliced green onions right before serving for a burst of freshness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the mixture into lettuce leaves.

Optionally, add a spoonful of steamed rice or sautéed cauliflower rice.

Garnish with sesame seeds and enjoy!

What to Serve It With

These wraps are a meal on their own, but they pair beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, garlic fried rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

A side of miso soup or cucumber salad works well too!

Variations / Substitutions

Protein Swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu.

Sauce Swap: Use hoisin or teriyaki sauce for a different twist.

Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or chili garlic paste to the sauce.

Extra Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or edamame.

Storage & Leftovers

Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

It also freezes well—let it cool completely, portion into freezer bags, and store up to 2 months.

Just thaw and reheat when ready.

FAQs

Can I make these lettuce wraps ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the filling ahead and store it. Reheat and assemble when ready to serve.

What kind of lettuce works best?
Bibb or butter lettuce is soft and forms great cups. Romaine hearts or iceberg can work too.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use coconut aminos or gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Crumbled tofu or lentils are great meatless substitutes.

How do I keep the lettuce from tearing?
Wash and pat the leaves dry gently. Avoid overstuffing.

Is the sauce spicy?
It’s mild unless you add red pepper flakes. You can adjust the heat level to your liking.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely. Just use a larger skillet or cook in batches.

Final Thoughts

These Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps are the kind of weeknight recipe that keeps me sane—easy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable.

Whether you’re skipping carbs or just want something different for dinner, this one hits the spot every time.

Plus, there’s something fun about wrapping it all up in lettuce—it’s hands-on, fresh, and totally satisfying.

The Boat Shed Kitchen