Looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea? Try this Ground Beef Ramen Skillet! Packed with lean ground beef, fresh veggies, and savory ramen noodles, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Whip up a flavorful sauce with soy sauce, hoisin, and a hint of Sriracha to bring it all together. Ready in just 30 minutes, this skillet meal is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients for Ground Beef Ramen Skillet
To get started, you will need the following ingredients:
- For the Skillet:
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 large white onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced thinly
- 2 cups broccoli florets, diced
- 3/4 cup carrots, cut into matchsticks
- 3 packages instant ramen noodles, seasoning packets discarded
- For the Sauce:
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For Serving:
- Green onion, minced
- Sesame seeds
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: cornstarch, soy sauce, chicken broth, sesame oil, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, Sriracha, and black pepper. Set this mixture aside as it will be used later to bring the dish together.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced onion and cook until it becomes soft, about 4-5 minutes. Then, reduce the heat to medium and add the grated ginger and minced garlic. Stir briefly for about 15 seconds until fragrant, then push the mixture to the side of the skillet.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Increase the heat to high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Let it sit undisturbed for about 30 seconds to develop a nice sear. Then, use a wooden spoon or spatula to break apart the meat and cook until it is no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Ramen Noodles
While the beef is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook for 1 1/2 minutes less than the package directions indicate. Drain the noodles and toss them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 5: Sauté the Vegetables
Reduce the skillet heat to medium-high and add the sliced red bell pepper, diced broccoli florets, and matchstick-cut carrots. Cook the vegetables until they are crisp-tender, stirring occasionally. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Stir the sauce one more time to ensure it is well-mixed, then pour it into the skillet along with the cooked ramen noodles. Use tongs to toss everything together until the sauce has thickened and evenly coated all the ingredients. This should take about 2-4 minutes.
Step 7: Serve
To serve, sprinkle minced green onion and sesame seeds over the top of the skillet. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.
FAQs
1. Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, you can easily substitute the vegetables with your favorites or whatever you have on hand. Snow peas, snap peas, or zucchini would work well.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of Sriracha or add a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef and works well in this recipe.
4. Is it necessary to discard the ramen seasoning packets?
Yes, this recipe uses a homemade sauce to control the flavor and salt content, making the seasoning packets unnecessary.
5. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
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