This easy-to-make dish combines the ground beef with colorful vegetables, all nestled in a bowl of ramen noodles.
The ground beef provides a source of protein and iron, essential for muscle growth and maintaining a healthy immune system. When paired with the right vegetables, like bell peppers, carrots, and peas, the meal becomes a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which help support your overall health.
One of the great things about this dish is its versatility. The vegetables not only add color and texture but also provide a variety of essential nutrients. Bell peppers, for example, are rich in vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and skin health. Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A to support vision and skin health. Peas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, contributing to digestive health and a feeling of fullness. By adding these vegetables to the mix, you enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish, making it a well-rounded meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
For the Beef and Vegetable Mix:
- Ground beef (lean or regular)
- Medium onion, diced
- Bell pepper, diced (any color)
- Medium carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
- Garlic, minced
- Frozen peas (or fresh, if you prefer)
- Corn kernels (optional, frozen or fresh)
- Soy sauce
- Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Sesame oil (for added flavor, optional)
For the Ramen:
- Instant ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- Water (or low-sodium broth for extra flavor)
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How To Make Ramen Noodles With Ground Beef And Vegetables Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat the Pan:
- Begin by heating a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a small drizzle of oil (vegetable or olive oil). The oil helps to prevent the beef from sticking to the pan and ensures it cooks evenly.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the pan. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, break up the beef into small pieces. Stir frequently to prevent the meat from clumping together and to ensure it browns evenly.
- Allow the beef to cook for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This step is crucial because properly browned beef adds a rich flavor to the dish.
- Drain Excess Fat:
- Once the ground beef is cooked, you may notice some excess fat in the pan. Carefully drain off the fat, but leave about 1-2 teaspoons of fat in the pan. This small amount of fat helps retain the flavor while cooking the vegetables.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and thinly sliced carrot to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir everything together to combine the beef and vegetables.
- Stir-fry the mixture for about 4-5 minutes. During this time, the vegetables should soften, and the onions should become translucent. This step enhances the sweetness and depth of the vegetables.
- Add Garlic and Continue Cooking:
- Once the vegetables have softened, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Garlic should only be cooked for about 1 minute, as it can burn easily and turn bitter if cooked too long.
- Stir constantly to ensure the garlic becomes fragrant but doesn’t burn.
- Add Peas and Corn:
- Next, stir in the frozen peas and corn (if using). These vegetables add a pop of color, sweetness, and additional texture to the dish.
- Let the mixture cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the peas and corn to heat through. The vegetables should remain crisp but tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Ramen
- Boil the Water:
- While the beef and vegetables are cooking, bring a separate pot of water to a boil. You’ll need about 4 cups of water to cook 2 packs of ramen noodles.
- If you prefer extra flavor in your noodles, consider using low-sodium broth instead of water for an enhanced taste.
- Cook the Ramen:
- Once the water is boiling, add the ramen noodles. Use a fork or chopsticks to gently stir the noodles to prevent them from sticking together.
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, which typically takes 3-4 minutes. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 4: Combine the Ramen and Beef Mixture
- Add the Noodles to the Skillet:
- Once the noodles are drained, carefully add them to the skillet with the beef and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure the noodles mix well with the beef and vegetables.
- Season the Dish:
- Pour in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (optional). These ingredients add a savory, umami flavor to the dish. Sesame oil also imparts a nutty aroma and taste.
- Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce. The soy sauce will give the dish its saltiness, while the sesame oil adds a subtle richness.
Step 5: Serve
- Taste and Adjust:
- Once everything is combined, taste the dish. If you’d like more flavor, you can add additional soy sauce or sesame oil. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Garnish:
- To add color, texture, and a fresh touch, garnish the dish with chopped green onions. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds for a subtle crunch or add crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Serve the dish hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips:
- Use Fresh Vegetables: For a more vibrant, crunchy texture, feel free to use fresh vegetables. You can replace frozen peas and corn with fresh versions if preferred.
- Add Protein Variations: If you want to change things up, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a different flavor or a lighter option.
- Spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning by adding a pinch of ginger, chili flakes, or garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.
- Broth for Extra Flavor: If you’re looking for a richer flavor, use chicken or beef broth instead of water to cook the ramen noodles. This will add depth to the dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- With a Side Salad: Serve with a refreshing side salad, such as a simple cucumber and carrot salad, to balance the richness of the ramen.
- Topped with Fried Egg: For extra protein and richness, top your ramen with a fried egg. The runny yolk will add creaminess to the dish.
- Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread or toasted baguette slices to complement the savory flavors of the dish.
- As a Meal Prep: This dish can be made in large batches and stored for later. Pair it with some steamed broccoli or your favorite green vegetable for added nutrition.
How to Store:
- In the Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if the noodles get too dry.
- In the Freezer: You can freeze the beef and vegetable mixture (without the noodles) for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet and then cook fresh ramen noodles to combine.
- Avoid Storing the Noodles with the Sauce: If you plan to store this dish for longer periods, it’s best to keep the noodles and beef mixture separate. The noodles may absorb the sauce and become mushy when reheated.
More Recipes
Ramen Noodles With Ground Beef And Vegetables
This easy-to-make dish combines the ground beef with colorful vegetables, all nestled in a bowl of ramen noodles.
Ingredients
For the beef and vegetable mix:
- 1 lb ground beef lean or regular
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced (any color)
- 1 medium carrot peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup frozen peas or fresh, if you prefer
- 1 cup corn kernels optional, frozen or fresh
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce optional
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil for added flavor, optional
For the ramen:
- 2 packs of instant ramen noodles discard the seasoning packets
- 4 cups water or low-sodium broth for extra flavor
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil optional
For garnishing:
- 1-2 green onions chopped (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds optional
- Crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat
Instructions
Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat a small drizzle of oil (vegetable or olive oil) over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Once cooked, drain any excess fat, leaving about 1-2 teaspoons in the pan for flavor.
Add Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and carrot to the skillet with the cooked ground beef.
- Stir-fry the vegetables with the beef for about 4-5 minutes until they soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the peas and corn (if using), and cook for another 2 minutes.
Prepare the Ramen:
- While the beef and veggies are cooking, bring a separate pot of water to a boil (about 4 cups of water for 2 packs of noodles).
- Add the ramen noodles to the boiling water, cook according to the package instructions (usually 3-4 minutes), and then drain the noodles.
Combine the Ramen and Beef Mixture:
- Once the noodles are cooked and drained, add them to the skillet with the beef and vegetable mixture.
- Pour in 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional). Stir everything together until well combined and the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
Serve:
- Stir everything thoroughly so that the flavors meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more soy sauce or sesame oil, if desired.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes for an added touch of flavor and crunch.
Notes
- Use Fresh Vegetables: For a more vibrant, crunchy texture, feel free to use fresh vegetables. You can replace frozen peas and corn with fresh versions if preferred.
- Add Protein Variations: If you want to change things up, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a different flavor or a lighter option.
- Spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning by adding a pinch of ginger, chili flakes, or garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.
- Broth for Extra Flavor: If you're looking for a richer flavor, use chicken or beef broth instead of water to cook the ramen noodles. This will add depth to the dish.