Bookmark
This bold and savory noodle dish comes together quickly using ground beef and ramen noodles coated in a rich homemade stir fry sauce. It is loaded with colorful vegetables and perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels satisfying but doesn’t require much effort.
I first made this when I needed something fast with little in the fridge. Now it is in regular rotation and everyone asks for it again and again.
Ingredients
- Beef broth: adds savory richness to the sauce
- Chicken broth: lightens the base and balances flavor
- Soy sauce: delivers depth and umami
- Creamy peanut butter: creates a velvety body in the sauce
- Honey: adds subtle sweetness to round things out
- Hot sauce or sriracha: for a gentle kick
- Ground ginger: gives warmth and brightness
- Ground beef: brings hearty flavor and protein
- Salt and pepper: to enhance all other ingredients
- White wine or broth: deglazes and boosts flavor
- Peanut or olive oil: helps with sautéing and adds taste
- Garlic: adds aromatic strength to the base
- Yellow onion: becomes soft and sweet when sautéed
- Carrots: add crunch and natural sweetness
- Red bell pepper: provides color and bright flavor
- White button mushrooms: soak up the sauce and give texture
- Cabbage: optional for extra crunch and volume
- Cornstarch: thickens the sauce perfectly
- Ramen noodles: cook quickly and absorb all that flavor
- Green onions: freshen and brighten the final dish
- Sesame seeds or peanuts: for crunch and nuttiness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Beef:
- Brown the seasoned ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink then remove and set aside
- Deglaze the Skillet:
- Pour white wine or broth into the hot pan and scrape up any browned bits then simmer to reduce by half
- Build the Aromatic Base:
- Add garlic oil onions carrots and mushrooms to the skillet and sauté gently until softened and fragrant about five minutes
- Layer in Vegetables:
- Add the bell peppers and cabbage and cook briefly until slightly tender but still vibrant
- Add the Sauce:
- Pour the pre mixed sauce into the skillet and let it bubble until slightly thickened then lower heat to maintain a gentle simmer
- Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked beef to the pan with the drained noodles stir well to coat everything and heat through completely
- Finish and Garnish:
- Top with green onions sesame seeds or chopped peanuts and serve hot
Bookmark
You Must Know
I love how the peanut butter transforms the sauce into something rich and silky. My husband swears this is better than takeout and my little one devours it every time.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze let cool completely and store in a freezer safe bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently to avoid overcooking the noodles.
Bookmark
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap the ground beef for turkey chicken or tofu for a lighter or vegetarian version. If you are out of peanut butter try almond or sunflower seed butter. Soy sauce alternatives like coconut aminos can work too.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp cucumber salad or steamed edamame. For a heartier dinner serve with a side of miso soup or spring rolls.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or thinly sliced beef or chicken breast. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
- → What can I use instead of peanut butter?
Almond butter, cashew butter, or tahini are great alternatives. For nut-free options, use sunflower seed butter or omit it and add more soy sauce for depth.
- → How can I make this vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for tofu, tempeh, or extra mushrooms. Use vegetable broth and load up on vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added protein and flavor.
- → Do I need to use both beef and chicken broth?
Using both broths adds a unique depth of flavor, but you can use all chicken or all beef broth based on what you have on hand.
- → What vegetables work well in this dish?
Aside from the listed ingredients, you can add broccoli, green beans, baby corn, snow peas, celery, or edamame to customize the flavor and texture.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Avoid overcooking the noodles if planning to freeze.