Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps

Lettuce wraps have become a favorite for anyone who wants a meal that’s fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to pull together. The crispness of the lettuce paired with a savory, well-seasoned filling makes every bite a little burst of satisfaction. What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to customize — you can stick to the classic flavors or add your own twist with extra spices or crunchy toppings.

Using ground beef makes these wraps hearty without being heavy, and they cook quickly, which is perfect for busy weeknights or casual lunches. You can have a hot, satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes, and cleanup is minimal — always a win in my book. The combination of tender beef, aromatic garlic, and a hint of sweetness from the sauce makes these wraps irresistible.

One of the things that sets this recipe apart is its versatility. You can serve it as a light dinner, a party appetizer, or even meal prep for the week. Pairing the beef filling with fresh lettuce leaves gives you that perfect balance of savory and crisp, and it’s an easy way to sneak some extra greens into your day. Plus, everyone can assemble their own wraps, making it a fun, interactive meal.

I’ve tried plenty of versions of beef lettuce wraps over the years, but this one hits the perfect note between flavor and convenience. It’s a recipe that even beginners can handle, yet it feels special enough to serve when friends come over. Once you try it, you’ll see why these easy ground beef lettuce wraps have become a staple in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick and fuss-free: These easy lettuce wraps come together in less than 30 minutes, making them perfect for weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Fresh and flavorful: The crisp lettuce adds a refreshing crunch that balances the savory, well-seasoned ground beef perfectly — every bite feels light but satisfying.
• Customizable to your taste: You can adjust the seasoning, spice level, or toppings to your liking. Add some shredded carrots, chopped peanuts, or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra punch.
• Kid-friendly and fun: Let everyone build their own wraps at the table. It’s a hands-on meal that turns dinner into a little interactive experience, which makes picky eaters more likely to enjoy it.
• Healthy without compromise: Packed with protein and veggies, these wraps are a simple way to enjoy a hearty meal while keeping things light and wholesome.

Ingredient List

For the Beef Filling

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Serving

• 1 head of butter lettuce or romaine, leaves separated and washed
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts (optional, for crunch)

Ingredient Notes

• I always use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced—it gives the wraps so much more flavor.
• Don’t skip the hoisin sauce! It’s what makes these beef lettuce wraps taste irresistible.
• For the lettuce, I prefer butter lettuce because the leaves are soft and fold easily without tearing.
• If you like a little heat, red pepper flakes add just the right kick without overpowering the dish.
• Sesame oil is optional but highly recommended—it gives the filling a nutty depth that takes these wraps to the next level.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok – For cooking the ground beef evenly; I love using my non-stick skillet for easy cleanup.
• Cutting board & sharp knife – For chopping garlic, onion, and any veggies; a good chef’s knife makes this so much faster.
• Mixing spoon or spatula – To stir the beef and sauce together without scratching your pan.
• Measuring spoons & cups – For accurate sauce ingredients; I always keep a small set handy.
• Serving platter or bowl – To arrange the lettuce leaves; it makes assembling the wraps at the table more fun.

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

• Wash and separate the lettuce leaves, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Dry leaves help prevent sogginess.
• Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. I like to keep the garlic extra fine so it blends perfectly into the beef.
• Measure out your sauces (hoisin, soy, rice vinegar, sesame oil) and have them ready. It makes cooking smoother.

Pro Tip: Keeping all ingredients prepped and within reach (mise en place) makes the cooking process fast and stress-free.

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2. Cook the Beef

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until it’s mostly browned.
• Season lightly with salt and black pepper as it cooks.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—if the beef steams instead of browns, you’ll lose some of that rich, savory flavor.

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3. Sauté the Aromatics

• Push the beef to one side of the skillet and add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
• Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onions are soft and the garlic is fragrant.
• Mix everything together so the aromatics coat the beef evenly.

Pro Tip: Watch the garlic carefully—it can burn quickly. Keep stirring for even cooking.

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4. Add the Sauce

• Pour in the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
• Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the beef is fully coated and the sauce slightly thickens.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Pro Tip: Simmer just long enough for the sauce to cling to the beef. Overcooking can make it a bit dry.

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5. Assemble the Wraps

• Arrange the lettuce leaves on a serving platter.
• Spoon the beef mixture into each leaf, letting everyone build their own wraps.
• Top with shredded carrots, green onions, or chopped peanuts if you like extra crunch.

Pro Tip: For cleaner wraps, use slightly smaller scoops of beef so the leaves hold together without spilling.

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6. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve immediately while the beef is warm and the lettuce is crisp.
• Pair with extra sauce on the side if you want a little more flavor in each bite.
• Encourage everyone to fold or roll the leaves for a fun, hands-on meal.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t rush the browning: Let the ground beef cook undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring—it develops richer flavor.
• Keep lettuce dry: Pat leaves completely dry to prevent soggy wraps. Crisp lettuce makes every bite satisfying.
• Taste as you go: Adjust the sauce seasoning gradually—hoisin can be sweet, soy sauce can be salty, so balance it to your liking.
• Use a non-stick skillet: Makes cooking and cleanup easier, especially when working with the sticky sauce.
• Serve immediately: These wraps are best fresh. The lettuce will lose its crunch if it sits too long.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Ground turkey or chicken: Swap the beef for a leaner option. It cooks faster and still absorbs all the flavors.
• Iceberg lettuce: If you prefer a crunchier leaf, iceberg works well for wraps.
• Vegetarian version: Replace beef with finely chopped mushrooms or crumbled tofu for a plant-based option.
• Spice it up: Add sriracha, chili paste, or fresh jalapeños to the sauce for extra heat.
• Extra crunch: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped cashews instead of peanuts for variety.
• Low-sodium option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce hoisin sauce to control salt levels.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving these beef lettuce wraps with steamed jasmine rice on the side—it makes the meal feel a little heartier without weighing it down.
• Pair them with a simple cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil—it adds a refreshing crunch that complements the savory beef perfectly.
• Serve alongside edamame or roasted veggies for a light, balanced weeknight dinner.
• Top with extra chopped peanuts and green onions right before serving—it adds texture and a pop of color that makes the wraps look as good as they taste.
• For a fun party idea, place the beef mixture and toppings in bowls and let guests assemble their own wraps—it’s hands-on and always a hit.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the lettuce separate until ready to serve.
• Freeze: The cooked beef filling can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on stovetop: Warm the beef mixture over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Reheat in microwave: Place beef in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Assemble fresh: Always add lettuce and toppings after reheating—the wraps are crispest and most flavorful this way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these wraps ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just keep the lettuce separate and assemble right before serving to keep it crisp.

Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork work well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since leaner meats cook faster than beef.

How spicy are these wraps?

They’re mild by default, but you can easily add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chopped jalapeños to the beef for extra heat.

Can I freeze the beef filling?

Yes, the cooked beef mixture freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What’s the best lettuce to use?

Butter lettuce is my favorite because the leaves are soft and fold easily. Iceberg or romaine work too if you like a bit more crunch.

Are these wraps kid-friendly?

Definitely! The mild flavor and hands-on assembly make them a hit with kids, and you can leave out the spicy elements for little ones.

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Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out—I love hearing how you customize your wraps and what toppings you add!