This cozy dish of Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles is perfect for chilly days! It’s packed with tender beef, savory broth, and slurpy noodles that just beg to be eaten.
Making it is super easy—just toss everything in the slow cooker and wait for the magic to happen. I love to top it with green onions and a soft-boiled egg for an extra treat! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This ingredient gives the dish its meaty flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, consider using crumbled tofu or a meat substitute like Beyond Beef.
Beef broth: Beef broth adds depth to the soup. If you prefer a lighter taste, vegetable broth works well. For a richer flavor, use homemade broth or a low-sodium version to reduce saltiness.
Ramen noodles: While traditional ramen noodles are great, you can use rice noodles, udon, or even whole wheat noodles. Just adjust cooking times based on the noodle type.
Bell peppers: Any color of bell peppers will enhance flavor and nutrition. You can substitute with other veggies like carrots, snap peas, or bok choy. Frozen mixed vegetables can also save prep time.
Green onions: These add a nice crunch and freshness. If you don’t have them, chives or shallots can be a good alternative. Just chop them finely for similar taste!
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Ground Beef for This Recipe?
The first step in this recipe involves browning the ground beef. This not only cooks the meat but also enhances its flavor. Here’s how to do it efficiently:
- Preheat your skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef without any oil, as the fat will render from the meat.
- Break the beef into small pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks to ensure it browns evenly.
- Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat for a healthier dish.
Using a non-stick skillet can make this easier, as it prevents the beef from sticking. This step sets the foundation for a tasty broth.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ramen Dish:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 packages of ramen noodles (discard the flavor packets)
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes of cooking time in the slow cooker. The wait is worth it for a delicious, warm bowl of ramen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat before moving on to the next step.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the cooked beef into your slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth and water, then add the diced bell peppers, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Slow Cook the Mixture:
Cover the slow cooker and allow it to cook on low heat for about 4 hours. This will let all the flavors meld beautifully.
4. Add the Ramen Noodles:
After 4 hours, it’s time to add the noodles. Open the slow cooker and add the ramen noodles, gently pressing them down into the liquid. Cover it again and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the noodles are ready, stir in the chopped green onions and season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Now it’s time to serve! Dish out your beef ramen noodles into bowls and sprinkle some sesame seeds and extra green onions on top if you like. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat. Just ensure that any alternative meat is fully cooked before transferring it to the slow cooker!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. If you’re looking for a lighter flavor, just use more water in place of the beef broth, but keep in mind the overall taste may be milder.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients and assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before. Just keep it in the fridge and cook it the next day. This will also enhance the flavors!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can gently reheat them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent the noodles from drying out.
