Can I use instant ramen packets for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ditch the flavor packet (trust me, you won't need it with our delicious sauce) and cook the noodles 1 minute less than the package says. They'll finish cooking when you toss them with the beef. While fresh ramen has better texture, instant works great in a pinch—this is how I first made the recipe!

How can I reduce the sodium in this dish?

Easy fixes: Use low-sodium soy sauce and cut back to 1 tablespoon instead of 2. You can also skip the optional egg (though I'll miss it!) since the yolk adds a bit of sodium. Another trick? Bulk it up with extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini—they'll soak up flavor without adding salt.

What's the best vegan alternative for this recipe?

I've had great results using plant-based ground "beef" (the kind that browns nicely) and swapping fish-free vegan oyster sauce for half the soy sauce. For the egg, try crispy baked tofu or avocado slices. Just make sure your gochujang is vegan—some brands contain seafood!

Can I freeze this Korean-style ramen?

Honestly? I don't recommend it. The noodles turn mushy when thawed, and the sauce separates. Instead, freeze just the cooked ground beef mixture (without noodles) for up to 1 month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat with a splash of water, and toss with freshly cooked noodles.

My sauce turned out too thick—how can I fix it?

No worries! That starchy noodle water I told you to save? Add it 1 tablespoon at a time while tossing until you reach perfect sauciness. No reserved water? Plain hot water works too—just go slow so you don't dilute the flavors.

Korean Style Ground Beef Ramen You’ll Obsess Over in 30 Minutes

Name: Korean Style Ground Beef Ramen You’ll Obsess Over in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 8 oz ramen noodles; 1 lb ground beef; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, grated; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1/2 cup green onions, sliced; 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds; 1 egg (optional)

Description

A quick and flavorful Korean-style ground beef ramen dish that combines savory beef with spicy and sweet flavors.

Ingredients

8 oz ramen noodles
1 lb ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 tbsp sesame oil
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
1 egg (optional)

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Instructions

Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and cook ground beef until browned.
Add garlic and ginger, stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Mix in soy sauce, brown sugar, gochujang, and sesame oil.
Add cooked ramen noodles and toss to coat evenly.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Top with a fried egg if desired.

Notes

Adjust gochujang amount for preferred spice level.
Use fresh ramen noodles for best texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Korean