Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodle Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to make, this Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodle Recipe is perfect for you. With tender ground beef, colorful vegetables, and rich ramen noodles soaking up a savory broth, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. The best part? It all comes together in your slow cooker, making it a hands-off meal that’s great for busy weeknights.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This recipe combines the satisfying texture of ramen noodles with the deep, savory flavors of ground beef, soy sauce, garlic, and veggies. The slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld together slowly, intensifying the flavors while leaving the beef juicy and tender. Plus, the recipe is highly customizable, meaning you can easily adapt it to your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re a ramen enthusiast or just love a good slow cooker meal, this dish is sure to hit the spot!

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodle Recipe:

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably sirloin, 93/7 for leaner meat)
• 1 cup matchstick carrots for sweetness and crunch
• 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced for vibrant color and flavor
• 2-3 large scallions, roughly chopped for a subtle oniony taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced to add aromatic depth
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce for savory umami
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar to balance the saltiness
• 14.25 ounces chicken stock or beef stock for a rich broth base
• 2 packs ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
• Optional: sesame seeds and additional scallions for garnishing

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools:

• Slow cooker (6-quart capacity is ideal)
• Large skillet for browning the ground beef
• Mixing bowl for whisking the sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Chef’s knife for chopping vegetables
• Measuring cups and spoons to ensure accuracy

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. This step ensures that the beef retains its rich flavor without making the final dish greasy. If necessary, drain any excess grease before transferring the beef to your slow cooker.

2. Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker

Next, add your prepared matchstick carrots, red bell pepper slices, and roughly chopped scallions into the slow cooker with the browned beef. These vegetables not only add a vibrant color to the dish but also provide texture and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory broth.

3. Whisk the Sauce

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and chicken stock (or beef stock if you prefer). This sauce will infuse the beef and vegetables with a savory, slightly sweet flavor that complements the ramen noodles perfectly.

4. Combine and Slow Cook

Pour the whisked sauce over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 4-6 hours. During this time, the beef will become tender, and the vegetables will absorb the broth’s rich flavor.

5. Add Ramen Noodles

Approximately 30 minutes before serving, add the dry ramen noodles directly into the slow cooker. Be sure to stir them around occasionally, ensuring they soak up the broth and cook evenly. Discard the seasoning packets that come with the noodles, as you won’t need them for this recipe.

6. Serve and Garnish

Once the noodles are tender, your beef ramen is ready to serve. Scoop the ramen noodles, beef, and veggies into bowls, and garnish with additional chopped scallions and sesame seeds for a finishing touch of flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the noodles: Be sure to add the ramen noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking. If added too early, they may become mushy.
• Using too fatty beef: Opt for lean ground beef (such as 93/7) to avoid excess grease in the dish. Draining the beef after browning also helps keep the broth light.
• Not stirring the noodles: To ensure even cooking, stir the ramen noodles occasionally after adding them to the slow cooker. This prevents them from clumping together.

Variations and Swaps

• Vegetable swaps: If you don’t have red bell peppers or carrots, feel free to swap in other veggies like snap peas, bok choy, or mushrooms. These will add unique flavors and textures.
• Protein options: For a leaner version, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Each provides a different flavor profile but works well with the same seasonings and sauce.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a beautifully presented dish, serve the ramen noodles in deep bowls, making sure to evenly distribute the beef and veggies. Sprinkle sesame seeds and freshly chopped scallions on top for a pop of color. If you’re feeling fancy, you can also add a soft-boiled egg or some fresh cilantro to give your bowl a more authentic ramen house vibe.

Storage Instructions

Have leftovers? This Slow Cooker Beef Ramen stores well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. To store:

1. Let the dish cool completely.
2. Transfer to an airtight container.
3. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to refresh the noodles and prevent them from drying out.

To reheat, simply warm up the leftovers in a microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat. Avoid reheating for too long, as the noodles may become too soft.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes, while ramen noodles work best for this dish, you can use other types of noodles such as soba, udon, or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I freeze this recipe?

It’s not recommended to freeze ramen noodles as they can become mushy when thawed. However, you can freeze the beef and vegetable mixture without the noodles for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw, reheat, and add freshly cooked noodles.

How can I make this gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free ramen noodles or rice noodles and substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodle Recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Packed with flavors and customizable to your liking, it’s sure to become a go-to meal in your kitchen. Give it a try, and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious slow cooker recipes.

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