Slow Cooker Beef Ramen
Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Beef Ramen is not only a comforting dish but also a convenient meal that can fit into any busy lifestyle. With minimal prep time, this recipe allows you to enjoy a rich and flavorful bowl of ramen without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious home-cooked meal that is perfect for any night of the week. This recipe embodies the essence of comfort food—it’s hearty, satisfying, and requires little effort to prepare.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Ramen
Making Slow Cooker Beef Ramen is a straightforward process that results in a savory and delightful dish. Below are the ingredients and step-by-step directions to create this delectable meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground sirloin
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2-3 large scallions (roughly chopped)
- 1 cup matchstick carrots
- 1 medium red bell pepper (sliced)
- ½ cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 14.25 ounces chicken stock (or beef stock)
- 2 packs ramen noodles (seasoning packets discarded)
- Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
- Additional scallions (optional garnish)
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef until no pink remains, then drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the cooked beef to your 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add the prepared vegetables (carrots, bell pepper, scallions) to the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, create the sauce by whisking together minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and stock.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- During the final 30 minutes, add the dry ramen noodles (discarding the seasoning packets).
- Stir occasionally until noodles are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions and sesame seeds.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Ramen
When serving your Slow Cooker Beef Ramen, consider using deep bowls to hold the broth and ingredients securely. Add a generous serving of the ramen and beef mix, then top with additional scallions and sesame seeds for a fresh crunch and visual appeal. This dish pairs well with a side of pickled vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy with chopsticks or a fork, and savor each comforting bite.
How to Store Slow Cooker Beef Ramen
To store any leftovers of your Slow Cooker Beef Ramen, allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Transfer the ramen to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. If you wish to store it longer, consider freezing it in portions. Be aware that the noodles may become softer when reheated after freezing, but the flavor will remain delicious.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Beef Ramen
- Beef Choices: While ground sirloin is used in this recipe, you can experiment with other cuts of beef such as chuck or brisket for a richer taste.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bok choy, mushrooms, or snap peas to increase the nutritional value and flavor complexity.
- Spice it Up: If you prefer a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce mixture before combining it with the other ingredients.
Variation
For a vegetarian version of this dish, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein such as tempeh or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef stock, and feel free to include a variety of your favorite vegetables. This alternate version provides the same hearty comfort while accommodating dietary preferences.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Slow Cooker Beef Ramen in advance?
A: Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients and store them separately in the refrigerator. Simply combine everything in the slow cooker when ready to cook.
Q: Can I use instant ramen noodles instead of traditional ramen?
A: While you can use instant ramen noodles, the texture will differ. They may become mushy, so it’s best to add them at the last minute.
Q: Is there a gluten-free alternative for soy sauce?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari to maintain the flavor without gluten.
Slow Cooker Beef Ramen
Ingredients
Beef and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground sirloin You can substitute with other cuts of beef like chuck or brisket.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2-3 large scallions (roughly chopped) Use more for garnish.
- 1 cup matchstick carrots
- 1 medium red bell pepper (sliced)
Sauce
- ½ cup low sodium soy sauce Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 14.25 ounces chicken stock or beef stock Use vegetable stock for vegetarian version.
Noodles and Garnish
- 2 packs ramen noodles (seasoning packets discarded) Traditional ramen is recommended.
- none Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
- none Additional scallions (optional garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef until no pink remains, then drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the cooked beef to your 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add the prepared vegetables (carrots, bell pepper, scallions) to the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, create the sauce by whisking together minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and stock.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker and stir to combine.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- During the final 30 minutes, add the dry ramen noodles (discarding the seasoning packets).
- Stir occasionally until noodles are tender.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions and sesame seeds.
