Ground Beef Ramen Noodles is a quick and delicious dish that combines savory ground beef with colorful vegetables and flavorful ramen noodles. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with taste. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 3/4 cup matchstick-cut carrots
- 2 cups diced broccoli florets
- 3 packages of instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
For the Sauce:
- 1/3-1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 3 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp light brown sugar
- 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tsp Sriracha sauce, or to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the Ramen Noodles:
- Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions, but without using the seasoning packets. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3-1/2 cup of chicken broth, 2 tsp cornstarch, 3 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tbsp light brown sugar, 2 tsp toasted sesame oil, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tbsp hoisin sauce, and 2 tsp Sriracha sauce. Adjust the amount of chicken broth based on how saucy you want the noodles.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Add 1 lb of lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up into small pieces, until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the ground beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- Add Remaining Olive Oil:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Sauté the Garlic and Ginger:
- Add 3 cloves of finely chopped garlic and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the sliced bell pepper, 1/2 sliced onion, 3/4 cup matchstick-cut carrots, and 2 cups of diced broccoli florets. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
- Return Beef to Skillet:
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Add the Sauce:
- Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to combine.
- Add the Noodles:
- Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate and Serve:
- Serve the Ground Beef Ramen Noodles hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Ground Beef: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables such as snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn.
- Noodles: If you prefer, you can use fresh ramen noodles or other types of Asian noodles.
Variations
Spicy Ground Beef Ramen
- Increase the amount of Sriracha sauce or add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicier version.
Teriyaki Ground Beef Ramen
- Substitute the hoisin sauce with teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the noodles may become mushy upon thawing.
Q: What can I serve with Ground Beef Ramen Noodles? A: This dish is great on its own but can be served with a side of steamed dumplings, spring rolls, or a simple salad.
Q: Can I use a different type of sauce? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite stir-fry sauce or experiment with different flavors.
Ground Beef Ramen Noodles is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its savory ground beef, colorful vegetables, and delicious sauce, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this meal is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your family and friends!
