Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles: A Cozy Meal Full of Flavor

There’s something about a warm, hearty bowl of beef ramen noodles that just hits the spot. With this slow cooker recipe, you can enjoy all the comforting goodness without the hassle. Tender beef, savory broth, and perfectly cooked ramen noodles come together effortlessly for a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s super easy to make, requiring just a little prep and letting the slow cooker do the rest. The beef gets perfectly tender, and the broth becomes rich and full of flavor as it simmers all day. It’s the perfect meal for a busy day or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• ground beef
• matchstick carrots
• bell pepper, sliced
• scallions, chopped
• cloves, minced
• low-sodium soy sauce
• brown sugar
• chicken stock
• ramen noodles
• Optional garnishes

Full list of ingredients is below.

Directions

Brown the Beef

Start by browning the beef stew meat in a skillet over medium heat. This step adds flavor to the beef and helps it hold together during the slow cooking process. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Add the Liquid and Seasonings

Pour the beef broth and water into the slow cooker with the beef. Stir in the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Mix it all together so the beef is well-coated in the savory broth.

Slow Cook the Beef

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. The slow cooking allows the flavors to develop and the beef to become incredibly tender, so it’s well worth the wait.

Cook the Ramen Noodles

About 30 minutes before serving, add the ramen noodles to the slow cooker. Break them up a bit if needed, and stir them into the broth. Let them cook for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.

Finish and Serve

Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the green onions and mushrooms (if using) for an added burst of flavor. Give everything a good stir, and your delicious beef ramen noodles are ready to serve!

Expert Tips and Tricks

• Beef options: If you prefer a different cut of beef, you can use chuck roast instead of stew meat. Just cut it into chunks before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Customize the broth: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili paste if you like a bit of spice in your ramen.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to toss in some sliced carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

• Swap the noodles: You can use other types of noodles like udon or soba for a different twist.
• Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and substitute the beef with tofu or extra vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• More umami: Try adding a tablespoon of miso paste to the broth for an even richer flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles are a hearty meal on their own, but they pair well with a variety of sides:

• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a light balance to the rich soup.
• For a more filling meal, enjoy with some crispy egg rolls or gyoza.
• You can even add a soft-boiled egg on top of the ramen for a classic finishing touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of water or broth if the noodles have absorbed too much liquid.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with frozen beef?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it may take a little longer to cook. Just make sure the beef is fully thawed before adding it to the slow cooker if you’re looking for the best texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make this meal in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It actually tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to develop.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this recipe freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth to loosen it up.

Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes! You can use any kind of noodles you prefer. Just cook them separately and add them to the broth when serving to prevent them from getting too soft.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Noodles are the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort. Tender beef, flavorful broth, and ramen noodles come together to create a warm and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a cozy bowl of goodness!

Print