Thai Basil Beef Rolls – Fresh Vietnamese-Style

Thai Basil Beef Rolls changed my entire perspective on quick weeknight dinners when I first discovered them at a Vietnamese restaurant in Austin. I remember watching the server bring out these gorgeous, translucent rolls packed with vibrant herbs and tender beef, thinking there was no way I could recreate something so elegant at home. Boy, was I wrong!

These fresh spring rolls deliver restaurant-quality flavors in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy families who crave something more exciting than the usual dinner rotation—like my Teriyaki Chicken Stuffed Peppers.

The combination of marinated flank steak, fresh basil, and crisp vegetables wrapped in delicate rice paper creates an incredibly satisfying meal that feels both light and substantial. What I love most is how the Thai basil adds this amazing peppery-sweet flavor that transforms ordinary beef into something truly special.

The best part? My teenagers actually request these now, just like they do with my Spicy Ground Beef Sweet Potato Protein Bowl—which says everything about how delicious they are. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Thai Basil Beef Rolls Recipe

I’ve made these countless times for everything from casual family dinners to dinner parties, and they never fail to impress. The marinated flank steak becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, while the fresh herbs provide a burst of brightness that makes every bite exciting. Unlike heavy appetizers that leave you feeling sluggish, these rolls are refreshingly light yet packed with 18 grams of protein per serving.

The rice paper technique is surprisingly forgiving once you get the hang of it, and the whole assembly process becomes almost meditative. What really sets this recipe apart is the balance of textures—the tender beef against crisp vegetables and fragrant herbs creates a perfect harmony. They’re also incredibly versatile for meal prep since you can prepare all components ahead and assemble them fresh.

Storage & Serving Tips

These Thai Basil Beef Rolls taste absolutely best when served immediately after assembly, while the rice paper maintains its perfect chewy texture and the herbs are at peak freshness. I recommend storing any leftover components separately and assembling fresh rolls as needed, though completed rolls can be kept covered with a damp cloth in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours.

Pro tip from my kitchen: if you’re making these for a party, cook the beef and prep all vegetables the night before, then set up an assembly station where guests can roll their own—it becomes interactive entertainment! For the best results, keep your rice paper working area slightly damp and work with one wrapper at a time. If the rice paper tears while rolling, don’t panic—just overlap the torn edges and continue rolling tightly.

What to Serve with Thai Basil Beef Rolls?

These protein-packed rolls pair beautifully with both traditional Asian accompaniments and creative fusion combinations, making them perfect for any dining style.

Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: The classic pairing that balances the savory beef with a touch of sweetness and heat—I always keep a bottle in my fridge for these rolls and countless other dishes.

Vietnamese Peanut Sauce: Rich and creamy peanut sauce adds satisfying richness while complementing the fresh herbs perfectly, creating a more substantial appetizer experience.

Asian Cucumber Salad: A crisp, tangy cucumber salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich marinated beef while adding extra vegetables to round out the meal.

Miso Soup: In my kitchen, I often serve these rolls alongside a warm bowl of miso soup for a complete, restaurant-style meal that’s both comforting and light. For something a bit heartier, try pairing it with my Ginger Soy Glazed Cod.both comforting and light.

Conclusion

Thai Basil Beef Rolls – Fresh Vietnamese-Style Spring Rolls

Fresh spring rolls filled with marinated flank steak, aromatic Thai basil, and crisp vegetables wrapped in delicate rice paper

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 portions

Course: Appetizer, Light Meal

Cuisine: Asian, Vietnamese

Calories: 275

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb flank steak thinly sliced into strips
• 12 rice paper wrappers
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves whole
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 medium cucumber julienned
• 1 small carrot julienned
• 1 small red bell pepper thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic minced
• 1 tsp red chili flakes optional, for spice
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil for cooking
• salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Skillet
• Shallow dish for water
• Cutting board
• Tongs

Method

 

1. In a bowl, combine fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and red chili flakes if using. Add the sliced beef and toss to coat. Marinate for 10-15 minutes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for 5-10 seconds until it softens. Carefully remove it and place it on a clean surface.
4. In the center of the softened rice paper, place a few basil leaves, cilantro leaves, a few strips of cucumber, carrot, and bell pepper. Add a few strips of cooked beef on top.
5. Gently fold the sides of the rice paper in, then roll it tightly from the bottom up to enclose the filling. Repeat with the remaining rice paper wrappers and filling ingredients.
6. Arrange the rolls on a platter. Serve with a dipping sauce made of lime juice, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar, or any dipping sauce of your choice.

Notes

Use sharp knife to slice beef thinly against the grain for tenderness. Don’t overfill rice paper to avoid tearing. Soften rice paper gradually – should be pliable but not too soft. Best eaten fresh but can be stored covered in fridge for few hours.