Hey there! We all know that instant ramen is a delightful quick meal. It’s super affordable and tasty. But let me tell you, there’s so much more you can do with that humble packet of noodles to take it to the next level. Case in point, this delicious Ground Beef Ramen Skillet. We’re reinventing that quick-cooking goodness by transforming it into a savory stir-fry that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. Trust me, you’ll love the addition of beef and veggies in this dish!

Discard the Seasoning and Create Your Own Flavor

First things first, let’s set aside that seasoning packet that comes with the instant ramen. We’re going to create our own delicious flavor profile. But don’t worry, it’s still going to be a quick process! Since this stir-fry moves fast, it’s a good idea to prep your sauce and ingredients beforehand. Whisk together the sauce ingredients, which include some pantry staples. Feel free to make substitutions based on what you have available. Sesame oil and hoisin sauce add a nice touch, but you can use vegetable oil and skip the hoisin sauce if needed. Set the sauce aside.

Sauté and Brown for Flavor

Start by boiling some water. While the water is heating up, sauté ginger and garlic in a large skillet or wok. Add the ground beef to the skillet along with the ginger and garlic. Since we’re using ground beef, this step goes by quickly. As the meat browns, boil the ramen noodles separately according to the package instructions. However, be sure to cook them for a minute and a half less than the given time. We want the noodles to be slightly undercooked since they’ll finish cooking in the skillet later on.

Add the Veggies and Sauce for a Flavorful Feast

Now it’s time to add the bell pepper, carrots, and broccoli to the skillet. Stir-fry them until they’re crisp-tender, which will only take a few minutes. Once the veggies are ready, toss in the sauce and the pre-boiled noodles. Let everything cook together for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. This is where the magic happens! You’ll be left with a saucy, veggie and beef studded noodle dinner that will definitely impress.

Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, it’s time to plate this delicious creation. Garnish with some minced green onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation. And you’re done! Sit back, relax, and savor every bite of this tasty Ground Beef Ramen Skillet. It’s a simple and satisfying meal that will be on your table in thirty minutes or less. So why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your instant ramen game with this irresistible recipe?

Note: Recipe adapted from Chelsea’s Messy Apron.

Ground Beef Ramen Skillet

Serves: 4Prep time: 15 minutesCook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 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, thinly sliced
• 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:

• Minced green onion
• Sesame seeds

Preparation

1. 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 aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the onion and cook until soft, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Reduce the heat to medium, then stir in the ginger and garlic. Stir briefly for about 15 seconds, then push them to the side of the skillet.
4. Increase the heat to high, then add the ground beef to the pan. Let it sit undisturbed for 30 seconds, then use a wooden spoon or spatula to break apart the meat and cook until no longer pink.
5. While the beef cooks, 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 oil. Set aside.
6. Reduce the skillet heat to medium-high, then add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots. Let them cook until crisp-tender, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes.
7. Stir the sauce one more time, then add it to the skillet along with the ramen noodles. Cook and toss everything together using tongs until the sauce has thickened and coated everything nicely, which will take around 2-4 minutes.
8. To serve, sprinkle minced green onion and sesame seeds over the dish. Enjoy!

Now, go ahead and treat yourself to this amazing Ground Beef Ramen Skillet. You deserve it!