Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe
Introduction
Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a fresh and flavorful appetizer perfect for any occasion. Combining savory ground beef with vibrant vegetables and aromatic basil wrapped in delicate rice paper, these rolls are both light and satisfying.

Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- Fresh basil leaves
- Rice paper wrappers
Instructions
- Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with soy sauce and hoisin sauce until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Step 2: Add the shredded carrots and chopped bell peppers to the beef. Continue cooking for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Step 3: Soften each rice paper wrapper by dipping it in warm water for a few seconds until pliable.
- Step 4: Place a portion of the beef and vegetable mixture along with a few fresh basil leaves onto the softened rice paper. Roll it up tightly to enclose the filling.
- Step 5: Serve the rolls immediately, optionally with dipping sauce of your choice.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the beef mixture before cooking.
- Substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Include fresh mint or cilantro along with basil for a more herbaceous taste.
- Serve with peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Storage
These beef rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To prevent the rice paper from drying out, wrap them individually in damp paper towels. Avoid freezing as rice paper can become tough. Reheat gently if desired, but they are typically served cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare these rolls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, assemble the rolls just before serving to keep the rice paper soft and fresh.
What can I use if I don’t have rice paper wrappers?
Rice paper is traditional for these rolls, but you can try using thin lettuce leaves as a fresh and crisp alternative.
PrintThai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe
Thai Basil Beef Rolls are a flavorful and fresh appetizer featuring savory ground beef mixed with aromatic basil and crisp vegetables, all wrapped in delicate rice paper for a light and healthy bite. These rolls combine sweet, salty, and herbal notes typical of Thai cuisine, making them a perfect no-fry, quick-to-prepare snack or appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 rolls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
Assembly
- Fresh basil leaves (about 20 leaves)
- Rice paper wrappers (about 10 sheets)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef along with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: To the cooked beef, add 1 cup shredded carrots and 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften slightly but retain some crunch.
- Prepare Rice Paper Wrappers: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip each rice paper wrapper into the warm water for about 10-15 seconds until softened but still slightly firm to handle. Lay the softened wrapper flat on a clean surface.
- Assemble Rolls: Place a few fresh basil leaves on the lower third of the rice paper wrapper. Add a spoonful of the beef and vegetable mixture on top of the basil. Fold the sides of the wrapper inward and then roll it tightly from the bottom up to encase the filling securely.
- Serve: Arrange the rolls on a serving platter and serve immediately as is or with your favorite dipping sauce such as sweet chili sauce or peanut dipping sauce.
Notes
- For added freshness, you can include cucumber or mint leaves in the roll.
- Do not soak the rice paper too long, or it will become too sticky and difficult to roll.
- These rolls are best enjoyed freshly made to maintain the texture of the rice paper wrapper.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and calories.
- Gluten-free alternatives include tamari in place of soy sauce.
Keywords: Thai Basil Beef Rolls, rice paper wraps, ground beef appetizer, fresh spring rolls, Thai appetizer, easy beef rolls

