Ground Beef Chow Mein is a delicious, hearty dish that brings together tender beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful noodles in a savory sauce. Using a slow cooker makes this recipe even more convenient, allowing the flavors to meld together over time for a rich, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chow Mein is sure to hit the spot.

Chow Mein, a popular Chinese dish, is traditionally made with stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and protein. This version uses ground beef, making it both budget-friendly and easy to prepare. By using a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooking process to develop deep, rich flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a comforting meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (minced)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 2 teaspoons sugar (optional, adjust based on preference)

Additional Ingredients:

• 4 cups cabbage (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup carrot (julienned)
• 1 bell pepper (sliced, color of choice)
• 8 ounces chow mein noodles (or spaghetti, cooked according to package instructions)
• Green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic and ginger are fragrant.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, beef broth, and sugar. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
2. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more soy sauce or sugar depending on your preference.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

1. Place the browned ground beef mixture into the slow cooker.
2. Add the sliced cabbage, julienned carrots, and bell pepper on top of the beef.
3. Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables and beef. Toss everything gently to ensure the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the vegetables are tender but still retain some crunch.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

1. About 15 minutes before serving, cook the chow mein noodles or spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Add the cooked noodles to the slow cooker and gently toss to combine with the beef and vegetables. Allow the noodles to absorb some of the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Once the noodles are well coated with the sauce, serve the chow mein hot.
2. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and a pop of color.

Cook’s Notes

• Browning the Beef: Browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the flavor and helps to remove excess fat.
• Vegetable Texture: If you prefer your vegetables to retain a bit more crunch, reduce the cooking time slightly.
• Noodles: Chow mein noodles are traditional, but spaghetti or other long pasta can be used in a pinch.
• Adjusting Sweetness: The sugar in the sauce can be adjusted based on your taste preference. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.

Variations

Vegetarian Chow Mein

To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Spicy Ground Beef Chow Mein

Add a teaspoon of chili paste or a dash of sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving.

Chicken or Pork Chow Mein

Substitute ground chicken or pork for the beef. The cooking time remains the same, and these proteins will also absorb the flavors beautifully.

Gluten-Free Chow Mein

Use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce to make this dish gluten-free. Also, ensure that the noodles you use are gluten-free.

Low-Carb Chow Mein

For a low-carb option, replace the noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles. Add these towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh noodles instead of dried?

Yes, fresh chow mein noodles can be used. Simply cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the slow cooker.

2. Can I freeze leftover chow mein?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

3. What other vegetables can I use?

Feel free to add or substitute vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms based on your preference or what you have on hand.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ground beef and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator, then assemble everything in the slow cooker when ready to cook.

5. How do I prevent the noodles from getting soggy?

To prevent soggy noodles, add them towards the end of the cooking process and toss gently to combine. This allows them to absorb the sauce without becoming too soft.

6. What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use soy sauce with a bit of fish sauce or hoisin sauce to mimic the umami flavor.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can be doubled if you have a large enough slow cooker. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.

Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chow Mein is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. With its combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with different variations, you’ll love how simple and delicious this meal is. Enjoy your homemade chow mein with a side of fortune cookies for a complete Chinese-inspired dinner at home.