This Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles dish is a warm bowl of happiness! With tender beef and soft noodles bathing in a rich broth, it’s comfort food at its finest.
I love how the slow cooker does all the work! Just throw in the ingredients, set it, and relax while the wonderful smells fill your kitchen. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives this dish a hearty base. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian spin, use brown lentils or mushrooms instead.
Beef Broth: Beef broth adds depth of flavor. Vegetable broth is a great substitute if you’re going meatless. You can enhance it with a bit of soy sauce for that beefy essence.
Instant Ramen Noodles: These noodles cook quickly, making them ideal for this dish. You can swap them with udon or rice noodles if you prefer, just adjust cooking time based on the type of noodles used.
Soy Sauce: This ingredient gives umami flavor. If you’re low-sodium or gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty aroma. If you don’t have it, a splash of olive oil or peanut oil can work, but they won’t replicate that rich flavor exactly.
How Do You Make The Noodles Perfectly Tender Without Overcooking?
Getting the ramen noodles perfectly tender is key! To avoid mushy noodles, add them to the slow cooker about 20 minutes before you’re ready to eat. This allows them to soak in the flavors without overstaying their welcome.
- Make sure the noodles are submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Stir them gently to prevent clumping.
- Check for doneness often, as they can cook quickly. Aim for a chewy texture.
Finally, don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving — a little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference!
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare. You can let it cook in the slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Plus, an extra 20 minutes for the noodles to cook in the broth. A delicious meal ready with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned all the way through. Make sure to stir occasionally to break it up. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess fat and transfer the beef into your slow cooker.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Pour in the beef broth and add the sliced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic powder, and ground ginger into the slow cooker. Stir everything together so it’s well mixed.
3. Slow Cook:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or, if you’re in a hurry, on high for 2-3 hours. Let those flavors mingle beautifully!
4. Add the Ramen Noodles:
About 20 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the instant ramen noodles into the slow cooker. Gently stir to make sure the noodles are submerged in the broth. Cover it again and let it cook until the noodles are tender and ready to enjoy!
5. Season and Serve:
Before serving, take a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Once you’re satisfied, serve your delicious ramen hot! Garnish with extra chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that perfect finishing touch.
Enjoy your tasty slow cooker beef ramen noodles!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. It will still provide a hearty texture, but the flavor will be a bit milder. You may want to add additional seasonings or spices to enhance the flavor if desired.
Can I Add More Vegetables to this Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely add more veggies! Consider adding sliced carrots, mushrooms, or bok choy for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the slow cooker along with the red bell pepper.
What Should I Do If I Have Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef ramen noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the noodles have absorbed too much liquid.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the beef ramen noodles! Let them cool completely, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove, adding a little broth if needed to restore consistency.
