Slow Cooker Ramen Noodles with Ground Beef and Vegetables Recipe
This Slow Cooker Ramen Noodles recipe with ground beef combines the convenience of a slow cooker with the classic flavors of ramen. Packed with lean ground beef, a vibrant slaw mix, shredded carrots, and a savory broth made from chicken stock and tamari, it’s an easy, comforting meal perfect for busy days. The noodles cook directly in the slow cooker, soaking up all the rich flavors for a hearty and satisfying dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 9 ounces slaw mix (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ⅓ cup low sodium tamari or soy sauce
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 (3-ounce) packages ramen noodles, flavoring packets discarded or saved for another use
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart into small chunks as it cooks. Brown the beef thoroughly until it is no longer pink, about 5 minutes. This will build rich flavor and render excess fat.
- Transfer ingredients to slow cooker: Carefully move the cooked ground beef into a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the slaw mix, shredded carrots, minced garlic, tamari, chicken stock, and brown sugar. Stir all ingredients well to combine, ensuring the sauce is evenly distributed.
- Slow cook the mixture: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-6 hours. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the sauce is bubbling, being careful not to uncover during the cooking period to maintain heat and moisture.
- Add the ramen noodles: Switch the slow cooker to high if it is not already set. Add the dry ramen noodles directly into the pot, stirring gently to submerge them in the sauce. Cook uncovered for 5-15 minutes until the noodles are just tender but not overcooked.
- Serve: Once the noodles are cooked through, serve the ramen immediately. Optional toppings like chopped green onions, soft boiled eggs, or sesame seeds can be added to enhance the flavors and presentation.
Notes
- Discard the ramen flavor packets or save them for another use as they are not used in this recipe.
- You can substitute tamari with low sodium soy sauce to suit your preference or dietary needs.
- Do not uncover the slow cooker during the initial long cooking period to ensure proper cooking and prevent drying out.
- Feel free to add your favorite ramen toppings such as boiled eggs, sliced scallions, seaweed, or chili flakes before serving.
- This recipe can be doubled to feed a larger crowd using a larger slow cooker.
