Name: Thai Basil Beef Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 shallots, finely chopped; 1 red chili, finely sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon lime juice; 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves; 8 large lettuce leaves or rice paper wrappers; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber; Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a vibrant and aromatic Thai-inspired dish that brings together savory basil-infused beef with crisp lettuce leaves or delicate rice paper wrappers. I combine fresh herbs and bold seasonings to create a refreshing yet satisfying bite every time. Whether I prepare them for a quick weeknight dinner or a light gathering with friends, they always deliver bright flavors and a beautiful presentation.

Thai Basil Beef Rolls

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 shallots, finely chopped

1 red chili, finely sliced

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon oyster sauce

1 tablespoon fish sauce

1 teaspoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon lime juice

1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves

8 large lettuce leaves or rice paper wrappers

1 cup shredded carrots

1 cup thinly sliced cucumber

Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Directions

I start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

I add the minced garlic, chopped shallots, and sliced chili, sautéing them for about a minute until fragrant.

Next, I add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked.

I stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice, allowing everything to cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors blend beautifully.

After removing the skillet from the heat, I gently fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves and let them wilt slightly from the residual warmth.

I lay out the lettuce leaves or softened rice paper wrappers on a clean surface. Then I spoon the basil beef mixture into the center of each one.

I top each roll with shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and fresh cilantro. Finally, I fold and roll them tightly, tucking in the sides as I go, and serve them immediately for the freshest taste.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Each serving contains approximately 320 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey when I want a lighter alternative. If I prefer a vegetarian version, I use crumbled tofu or finely chopped mushrooms seasoned the same way.

For extra heat, I add more fresh chili or a drizzle of sriracha. When I want extra crunch, I include bean sprouts or chopped peanuts. I also enjoy serving the beef mixture over jasmine rice instead of wrapping it, turning it into a flavorful basil beef bowl.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I prefer storing the filling separately from the lettuce or rice paper to keep everything fresh and crisp.

When reheating, I warm the beef mixture gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. I then assemble the rolls just before serving to maintain the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

I prefer preparing the filling ahead of time and storing it in the refrigerator. I assemble the rolls just before serving so the lettuce or rice paper stays fresh and crisp.

What can I use if I cannot find Thai basil?

If I cannot find Thai basil, I substitute with regular sweet basil. The flavor will be slightly different, but I still get a delicious and aromatic result.

Are these rolls spicy?

The level of spice depends on the red chili I use. I adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the amount of chili according to my preference.

Can I freeze the beef filling?

I can freeze the cooked beef mixture in a sealed container for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and assembling.

Are these rolls low carb?

When I use lettuce leaves instead of rice paper wrappers, I create a lower-carb option that still feels satisfying and full of flavor.

Conclusion

Thai Basil Beef Rolls bring together bold Thai-inspired flavors with fresh, crisp textures in every bite. I enjoy how simple they are to prepare while still tasting vibrant and impressive. Whether I serve them as a light dinner, appetizer, or party dish, they always offer a delicious combination of savory beef, fragrant herbs, and refreshing vegetables that keeps everyone coming back for more.

📖 Recipe:

Thai Basil Beef Rolls

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a vibrant Thai-inspired dish featuring savory basil-infused beef wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves or soft rice paper with fresh vegetables. They deliver a perfect balance of savory, sweet, salty, and tangy flavors in every bite.

Instructions

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the minced garlic, chopped shallots, and sliced chili. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked.
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Remove from heat and gently fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves, letting them wilt slightly from the residual heat.
Lay out the lettuce leaves or softened rice paper wrappers on a clean surface.
Spoon the basil beef mixture into the center of each wrapper.
Top with shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and fresh cilantro. Fold in the sides and roll tightly. Serve immediately.