Name: 20 Minute Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or chicken or pork); Black pepper, to taste; 4 cloves garlic, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger (or 1/4 cup candied ginger); 1-3 teaspoons Chinese 5 spice; 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce; 1/4 cup Thai chili sauce (see homemade version in notes); 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus 2 tablespoons for mixing in beef); 4 Persian cucumbers, chopped; 2 cups cilantro, chopped; 1/2 cup Thai basil, chopped; 1/3 cup chopped roasted peanuts; 8-10 flour tortillas, warmed; Chili paste, for serving; Toasted sesame oil, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 6 reviews

If you are craving something fresh, flavorful, and incredibly quick to make, the 20 Minute Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These rolls pack an explosion of tastes and textures, from the savory, spiced ground beef to the bright freshness of Thai basil and cilantro, all wrapped in warm, soft tortillas. It is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug and a flavor adventure all at once, perfect for a weeknight meal or impressing guests without spending hours cooking. Let me walk you through this deliciously simple recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows cooked ground meat in a black pan. The meat is crumbly and brown with small pieces of cooked onion mixed throughout. There are a few bright green fresh herb sprigs placed on the cooked meat, adding a pop of color. The pan surface has some shiny spots from cooking oil, and the background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation to making these rolls a truly memorable meal. Each component brings its own special contribution to the harmony of flavors, textures, and colors that make this dish pop. From the freshly chopped herbs to the subtly spiced beef, every ingredient plays a vital role in creating a perfect balance.

Ground beef (1 1/2 pounds): Choose good quality beef for rich flavor; you can also swap to chicken or pork for variety.
Black pepper: Adds a mild bite that enhances the overall savory taste.
Garlic (4 cloves, chopped): Gives an aromatic depth to the beef mixture.
Fresh grated ginger (1 tablespoon) or candied ginger (1/4 cup): Provides a subtle warmth and a hint of sweetness.
Chinese 5 spice (1-3 teaspoons): Brings a fragrant spice blend that is quintessentially Asian.
Tamari or soy sauce (1/3 cup): Essential for that salty-sweet umami base in the meat marinade.
Thai chili sauce (1/4 cup): Adds sweetness with a gentle heat, elevating the beef’s flavor.
Green onions (1/4 cup chopped, plus 2 tablespoons for cooking): Offers freshness and a slight crunch.
Persian cucumbers (4, chopped): Bring cool, crisp bites to contrast the warm beef.
Cilantro (2 cups chopped): Imparts bright, herbaceous notes that lighten the rolls.
Thai basil (1/2 cup chopped): Infuses the dish with its signature sweet and slightly spicy aroma.
Roasted peanuts (1/3 cup chopped): Add essential crunch and nuttiness.
Flour tortillas (8-10, warmed): Soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping the flavorful filling.
Chili paste and toasted sesame oil (for serving): These provide extra layers of heat and nutty aroma as dipping sauces.

How to Make 20 Minute Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Build Flavor

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef seasoned lightly with black pepper. As the beef cooks, break it apart so that it browns evenly; the goal is to get it well-caramelized in about 5 minutes. Once browned, toss in the chopped garlic, grated or candied ginger, and Chinese 5 spice. Stir for another minute to let those fragrant spices bloom. Pour in the tamari and Thai chili sauce and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens and beautifully coats every bit of beef, around 3 to 5 minutes. Just before taking it off the heat, stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped green onions to keep things fresh.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas and Vegetables

While the beef simmers, warm your tortillas one by one in the microwave for about 15 seconds so they’re soft and easy to roll without cracking. Chop the cucumbers, cilantro, Thai basil, and the remaining green onions. These fresh ingredients will contrast the savory meat perfectly, making each bite a deliciously balanced experience.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Lay a warm tortilla flat and spoon a generous amount of the spiced beef down the center. Top with cucumbers, cilantro, Thai basil, green onions, and a sprinkling of roasted peanuts for satisfying crunch. To roll, fold the tortilla over the filling, then tuck the sides in neatly and roll it up forward until sealed. Repeat this process for all the rolls, preparing to serve them warm with some chili paste and toasted sesame oil on the side.

How to Serve 20 Minute Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe

The image shows five light golden fried spring rolls on a wooden board with a white marbled texture background. Three rolls are whole and stacked, topped with thin green herb sprigs, while two rolls are cut open to show three layers inside: a dark brown cooked meat layer, a bright green cucumber layer, and leafy green herbs. Around the rolls are small bowls of dark soy sauce, a light orange sauce with sesame seeds, and peanuts. A silver spoon with a reddish sauce and fresh green herbs add color to the scene. The spring rolls have a slightly bubbled, crispy texture and a shiny surface from oil. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can take these rolls to the next level. Sprinkle extra chopped peanuts, a few whole Thai basil leaves, or scatter thin slices of fresh chili on top to dial up the visual appeal and flavor. A drizzle of toasted sesame oil or an extra spoonful of chili paste adds that addictive finishing touch perfect for dipping.

Side Dishes

This recipe shines on its own as a light meal, but if you’re serving it for dinner, pair the rolls with fragrant jasmine rice or a cool Asian slaw for some crunch. A side of quick pickled vegetables also complements the fresh herbs and spicy beef beautifully, balancing the bold flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the rolls into bite-sized pinwheels perfect for parties or appetizers. Or serve them wrapped in banana leaves to amp up the tropical vibe. You can also turn this recipe into lettuce wraps by swapping tortillas for crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option that’s just as tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the beef mixture separately from the tortillas and toppings in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the freshness of the herbs and vegetables and prevents the tortillas from becoming soggy.

Freezing

The cooked beef filling freezes well in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw it overnight in the fridge to preserve the flavor and texture. Avoid freezing the assembled rolls, as the fresh ingredients won’t hold up well.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the beef thoroughly in a skillet or microwave. Warm the tortillas separately to keep them pliable, then assemble fresh rolls with the stored chopped veggies and herbs for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional here, ground chicken or pork also work wonderfully and will just change the flavor profile slightly, keeping the dish exciting and versatile.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the meat with firm tofu or use a plant-based ground “meat” alternative. Just cook it with the same spices and sauces, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version of the 20 Minute Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level can be adjusted by changing the amount of Thai chili sauce and chili paste you add. If you prefer mild flavors, start with less and add more on the side for those who love a kick.

Can I prepare these rolls in advance for a party?

It’s best to prepare all ingredients ahead but assemble the rolls just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp and tortillas soft. Alternatively, make smaller pinwheels that can be served cold or at room temperature.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Thai basil?

If Thai basil is hard to find, sweet basil or even fresh mint can be used as a substitute. Each will give a unique twist but keep the herbaceous freshness that’s key to this dish.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like the joy of throwing together a meal that’s bursting with flavor, textures, and vibrant aromas in just 20 minutes. The 20 Minute Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe delivers all of that with ease and style. Once you make these, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite quick meals to whip up whenever you want something comforting but exciting. Give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!

20 Minute Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need