slow cooker beef ramen recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
slow cooker beef ramen recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best slow cooker beef ramen recipe

I’ve been experimenting with this slow cooker beef ramen recipe for a while now, and it’s become a staple in our household. The dish originated in Japan, where it’s known as ‘ramen,’ but the slow cooker version is a perfect adaptation for busy families like mine. My kids love the rich, savory flavor of the broth, and I appreciate how easy it is to prepare.

All you need to do is add the ingredients to your slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a hot, satisfying meal. The beef and vegetables are tender and flavorful, and the noodles add a delightful texture. I love how this recipe allows me to cook a complete meal without much fuss or effort.

It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, the health benefits of this dish are numerous – it’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the beef and vegetables. I feel good about serving it to my family.

This recipe has become so popular that my kids request it regularly. They love helping me prepare it by adding their favorite toppings like green onions and sesame seeds. We all enjoy this dish together as a family.

It’s become an integral part of our mealtime routine. The slow cooker does all the work while we’re away at work or school, so when we come home, dinner is ready. It’s truly a lifesaver on busy days when everyone’s schedule seems to get in the way of cooking.

Slow Cooker Beef Ramen

Slow Cooker Beef Ramen

4.6 from 862 votes

This slow cooker beef ramen features tender beef in a rich, savory broth with perfectly cooked noodles and fresh toppings. The slow cooking process develops deep umami flavors, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time6 hours 10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hours 30 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Broth and Beef

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
6 cups beef broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
3 dried shiitake mushrooms

For the Ramen Bowls

4 packs fresh or dried ramen noodles (about 16 ounces total)
4 soft-boiled eggs, halved
2 green onions, sliced
1 sheet nori, torn into pieces
1 cup bean sprouts
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
2Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3Sear the beef in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side until deeply browned, then transfer to the slow cooker.
4Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the sliced onion.
5Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and lightly golden.
6Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, then cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7Pour 1 cup of beef broth into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
8Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker along with the remaining 5 cups of broth, soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, sesame oil, star anise, cinnamon stick, and dried shiitake mushrooms.
9Stir to combine.
10Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.
11Remove the star anise, cinnamon stick, and shiitake mushrooms, then shred the beef directly in the broth using two forks.
12About 10 minutes before serving, cook the ramen noodles according to package directions in a medium pot of boiling water until al dente.
13Drain the noodles and divide them evenly among 4 large bowls.
14Ladle the hot broth and shredded beef over the noodles in each bowl.
15Top each serving with a halved soft-boiled egg, sliced green onions, torn nori pieces, bean sprouts, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
Large skillet
Tongs
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Medium pot for noodles

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 195mg🧂Sodium: 1450mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For a richer broth, you can add 1 tablespoon of miso paste before serving. To make soft-boiled eggs, boil eggs for exactly 6 minutes and 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. Leftover broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Beef Ramen Works

This slow cooker beef ramen is always a good idea for any occasion because it is easy to make and everyone loves it. Whether it is a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering with friends this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

I love that I can set it in the morning and have a warm comforting meal ready when we are. For storage keep the broth and noodles separate in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To reheat simply warm the broth on the stove and add the noodles at the end. You can also freeze the broth for up to 3 months and cook fresh noodles when you are ready to serve.

Serve it with soft boiled eggs, a drizzle of chili oil, and some fresh scallions for a restaurant quality bowl at home.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Beef Ramen

Q: What type of beef should I use for this recipe?

For this slow cooker beef ramen recipe, I recommend using thinly sliced beef such as ribeye or sirloin.

Q: Can I use store-bought ramen noodles?

While store-bought ramen noodles can be convenient, they often contain added preservatives and MSG that detract from the natural flavor of the dish.

Q: How long does it take to cook the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker?

The cooking time will depend on your slow cooker model and desired level of tenderness.

Q: Can I customize this recipe with my favorite vegetables?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to suit your taste preferences.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains beef as its main protein source.

Similar Posts