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Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles Recipe

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3.9 from 60 reviews

This Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles recipe offers a comforting and flavorful meal that combines tender ground beef with fresh vegetables and savory broth. Cooked low and slow in a slow cooker, the dish allows flavors to meld beautifully, then finishes with classic ramen noodles for a satisfying and easy-to-make dinner.

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 pound ground beef (sirloin, 93/7 recommended)
  • 1 cup matchstick carrots
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2-3 large scallions, roughly chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Seasonings

  • ½ cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 14.25 ounces chicken stock or beef stock

Noodles and Garnishes

  • 2 packs ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
  • Sesame seeds (optional)
  • Additional scallions for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish leaner.
  2. Transfer to slow cooker: Pour the cooked beef into the basin of a 6-quart slow cooker to prepare for the slow cooking process.
  3. Add vegetables: Add matchstick carrots, sliced red bell pepper, and roughly chopped scallions to the slow cooker, layering them over the beef.
  4. Prepare the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together minced garlic, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and chicken or beef stock until combined.
  5. Add sauce and cook: Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine all ingredients well. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, allowing flavors to develop.
  6. Add ramen noodles: About 30 minutes before serving, add the dry ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets) directly into the slow cooker. Stir frequently to ensure the noodles are fully submerged and cook evenly.
  7. Serve and garnish: Once the noodles are tender, dish out portions and top with additional scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

  • To avoid noodles, serve this slow cooker mixture over rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a lower-carb option.
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein version.
  • Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for an extra spicy kick.
  • Enhance the broth’s umami by adding a splash of fish sauce or oyster sauce.
  • Finish with a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors.
  • Incorporate fresh ginger into the broth or serve with pickled ginger for additional aroma and zing.
  • For a brothier dish, use only one pack of noodles instead of two.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container once fully cooled to preserve freshness and avoid sogginess.
  • Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.