Easy Beef Ramen (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 lb lean ground beef (sirloin works best)
02 - 1 cup julienned carrots
03 - 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
04 - 2-3 green onions, coarsely chopped
05 - 3 garlic cloves, finely minced

→ Broth & Sauce

06 - ½ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
07 - 2 tbsp packed brown sugar
08 - 14.25 oz chicken or beef broth

→ Noodles & Garnish

09 - 2 packages instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
10 - sesame seeds for sprinkling
11 - extra sliced green onions for topping

# Instructions:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Cook until there's no pink remaining, then drain off any excess fat.
02 - Move the cooked beef to your 6-quart slow cooker basin.
03 - Toss in the julienned carrots, sliced red bell pepper, and chopped green onions with the beef.
04 - In a medium mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and broth. Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves completely.
05 - Pour the sauce mixture over everything in the slow cooker and give it a good stir. Cover with the lid and let it cook on low heat for 4-6 hours.
06 - About 30 minutes before you're ready to eat, break up the ramen noodles and add them to the slow cooker. Stir them around frequently so they cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
07 - Once the noodles are tender and cooked through, ladle into bowls and top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh green onion slices.

# Notes:

01 - Try serving over steamed rice or in lettuce cups instead of with noodles for a different twist
02 - Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter version
03 - Add red pepper flakes or sriracha if you like some heat
04 - A splash of fish sauce or oyster sauce will deepen the broth flavor
05 - Fresh lime juice squeezed over the top adds a bright, zesty finish
06 - Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container
07 - Every slow cooker cooks differently, so adjust timing as needed for your specific model