Name: Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (sirloin, 93/7); 1 cup matchstick carrots; 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced; 2-3 large scallions, roughly chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup low sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 14.25 ounces chicken stock or beef stock; 2 packs ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets); Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish); Additional scallions (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 3 reviews

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If you’ve ever dreamed of the perfect bowl that combines the comforting warmth of ramen with the hearty satisfaction of beef slow-cooked to tender perfection, you’re in luck. This Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Recipe is a total game-changer that brings together juicy ground beef, fresh veggies, and rich, savory broth all simmered slowly to meld flavors beautifully. It’s so simple to prepare yet bursting with layers of umami, sweet, and savory notes that have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a cozy dinner after a busy day, this recipe really hits the spot and will soon become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a black slow cooker, three main layers sit side by side. On the left, there is a layer of cooked ground meat with a crumbly texture and a brownish color. To the right of the meat, there are thin carrot sticks and small bright green pieces of chopped green onions. On the far right, a small pile of shredded light orange cheese completes the mix. The inner surface of the slow cooker is shiny black, and the whole scene is set on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is like setting the stage for a delicious performance, and this recipe’s simple lineup packs a punch of flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role—from the tender ground beef to the fresh crunch of carrots and peppers, to the deep savoriness of the broth enhanced by garlic and brown sugar.

1 pound ground beef (sirloin 93/7): Provides lean, juicy protein for a rich meaty base without excess fat.
1 cup matchstick carrots: Adds subtle sweetness and a slight crunch that brightens the dish.
1 medium red bell pepper, sliced: Brings vibrant color and a fresh, mild peppery flavor.
2-3 large scallions, roughly chopped: Offers a sharp, oniony punch that enhances the broth and garnish.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with aromatic depth and a touch of heat.
½ cup low sodium soy sauce: Provides the salty, umami backbone without overpowering the other flavors.
2 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances the saltiness with a gentle sweetness and caramel undertone.
14.25 ounces chicken or beef stock: Forms the savory liquid base that marries all ingredients together.
2 packs ramen noodles: The comforting, slurp-worthy noodles that soak up all the delicious broth.
Sesame seeds (optional): Adds a nutty crunch and visual appeal as a final touch.
Additional scallions (optional): Perfect for a fresh, green garnish and extra flavor.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s no longer pink, allowing it to develop a lovely browned crust that locks in flavor. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease for a lighter final dish.

Step 2: Combine Vegetables and Beef in Slow Cooker

Transfer that perfectly browned beef straight into your slow cooker’s basin. Then add matchstick carrots, sliced red bell pepper, and roughly chopped scallions. These fresh veggies will soften and release their natural sweetness as they cook slowly alongside the beef.

Step 3: Whisk the Sauce Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together minced garlic, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and your choice of chicken or beef stock. This sauce is the heart of your Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Recipe, balancing salty, sweet, and umami notes for a broth that’s rich but not overpowering.

Step 4: Pour Sauce and Cook

Pour your blended sauce over the meat and vegetables in the slow cooker, stirring gently to make sure everything is coated. Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours, allowing all those flavors to mingle slowly and deepen.

Step 5: Add Ramen Noodles

About 30 minutes before mealtime, toss the dry ramen noodles into the slow cooker. Be sure to discard those seasoning packets—they aren’t needed here. Stir frequently to coat the noodles in the broth and help them cook evenly until tender and slurp-ready.

Step 6: Final Touches and Serve

Once the noodles are perfectly tender, your Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Recipe is ready to serve. Garnish with extra sliced scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like, for that final touch of texture and flavor.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Recipe

A white bowl filled with three layers of food: the bottom layer is curly orange-brown noodles mixed with small pieces of cooked ground meat and small red pepper pieces; the middle layer is thickly scattered chopped green onions, adding bright green colors; the top layer shows white sesame seeds spread evenly all over. The bowl is set on a blue and white patterned cloth next to some fresh green onions. The background is a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate this dish from amazing to unforgettable. Thinly sliced scallions add a burst of fresh crunch, while toasted sesame seeds contribute a subtle nuttiness that complements the broth beautifully. If you like a little heat, a drizzle of chili oil or some crushed red pepper flakes make wonderful toppings too.

Side Dishes

This Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Recipe shines as a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with light sides like steamed edamame, a simple cucumber salad, or crispy tempura vegetables can round out your meal with complementary textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the ramen in individual stone bowls or rustic ceramic bowls to keep it warm longer and enhance the authentic feel. You might also try topping with a soft-boiled egg or a handful of fresh bean sprouts for added texture and protein variety that impresses your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Beef Ramen dishes keep beautifully in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to deepen, but noodles might absorb more broth, so you may want to add a splash of stock or water when reheating to keep it nice and saucy.

Freezing

Although the noodles tend to soften too much when frozen and thawed, you can freeze the beef and broth mixture separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just reheat gently and prepare fresh noodles when ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, and add a bit of broth or water if it’s too thick. If you added noodles to the freezer, cook fresh ones and combine before serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of beef for this Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground sirloin is recommended for its lean quality, but using ground chuck or a blend with a bit more fat can add richness and flavor. Just remember to drain excess fat to keep the broth clean and balanced.

What kind of ramen noodles work best for this recipe?

Standard dried ramen noodles are perfect because they cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully. Avoid instant ramen with seasoning packets, or discard the seasoning as it can overpower the delicate broth made in the slow cooker.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

To adapt it, swap the ground beef for plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, and replace the chicken or beef stock with vegetable broth. Keep the soy sauce and brown sugar the same and load up on veggies for a delicious meatless version.

Is it possible to cook this recipe faster?

You could cook the beef and sauce on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours instead of LOW for 4 to 6 hours, but slow cooking on low really enhances tenderness and melds the flavors perfectly, so it’s worth the wait if you can manage.

How spicy is this Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Recipe?

This version is mild with gentle savory sweetness, making it kid-friendly. If you want to turn up the heat, feel free to add chili flakes, sriracha, or a splash of chili oil when serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully comforting and deeply satisfying about a bowl of slow-cooked beef ramen that’s been simmered to perfection. This Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Recipe combines ease and rich-layered flavors in a way that’s approachable for any home cook. I truly hope you give it a try and enjoy the cozy warmth and vibrant taste it brings to your table as much as I do. Trust me — once you make this, it’ll be one of those go-to dinners you keep coming back to again and again!

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