Introduction
Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors and tender beef with the comforting texture of ramen. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep and is cooked slowly to enhance the flavors. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound ground beef
1 cup matchstick carrots
1 red bell pepper, sliced
2–3 scallions, roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
14.25 ounces chicken stock
2 packs ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Additional scallions (optional, for garnish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4–6 hours on low
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
This Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles recipe is not only easy to make but also highly customizable. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Enjoy this hearty meal that requires little effort and delivers big flavor!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
Transfer to Slow Cooker:
Place the cooked beef into the basin of a 6-quart slow cooker.
Add Vegetables:
Add the matchstick carrots, sliced red bell pepper, and roughly chopped scallions to the slow cooker.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and chicken stock until well combined.
Combine and Cook:
Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours.
Add Ramen Noodles:
Approximately 30 minutes before serving, add the dry ramen noodles to the slow cooker, discarding the seasoning packets. Stir occasionally to ensure the noodles are submerged and cook evenly.
Serve:
Once the noodles are tender, serve the beef ramen hot. Garnish with sesame seeds and additional chopped scallions, if desired.
Notes
Customization:
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste.
Cooking Time:
Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for the tenderness of the noodles and meat.
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.
Cook Techniques
Browning Ground Beef
Cooking ground beef until it is no longer pink enhances its flavor and texture. This process helps to develop a rich, savory base for your dish.
Using a Slow Cooker
The slow cooker allows for low and slow cooking, which can result in tender meat and a depth of flavor as the ingredients meld together over time.
Combining Ingredients
Mixing the sauce with the meat and vegetables ensures that each element is well-coated and evenly flavored, leading to a more harmonious dish.
Adding Ramen Noodles
Adding ramen noodles later in the cooking process prevents them from becoming mushy. This technique helps maintain their texture while allowing them to absorb the flavors from the broth.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even diced steak for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to customize with other vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles recipe is a simple yet delicious meal that combines the richness of beef with the comforting flavors of ramen and vegetables. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or additional seasonings to make it your own.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Chicken Ramen
Swap the ground beef for shredded chicken and add a tablespoon of sriracha for a spicy kick.
Vegetable Ramen Bowl
Use tofu instead of meat and load up on your favorite vegetables like broccoli and snap peas for a vegetarian version.
Miso Beef Ramen
Incorporate miso paste into the sauce for a deeper umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef and noodles.
Asian Beef Stir-Fry Ramen
Stir-fry the beef and vegetables quickly in a skillet, then toss with cooked ramen noodles and soy sauce for a speedy meal.
Pho-Style Beef Ramen
Add star anise, ginger, and lime juice to the broth to give it a pho-inspired twist, making it aromatic and flavorful.
Beef and Mushroom Ramen
Include sliced mushrooms in the slow cooker for added texture and an earthy flavor.
Coconut Curry Ramen
Substitute the chicken stock with coconut milk and add curry paste for a creamy, aromatic broth that changes the ramen profile entirely.
