Asian Ground Beef Noodle Bowls Recipe
Ramen Noodles with Ground Beef and Asian Veggies
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 teaspoons green onion, white part only, thinly sliced
- 2 cups water
- 2 (3 ounce) packages ramen noodles (such as Nissin Top Ramen)
- 1 (12 ounce) package frozen Asian vegetable medley
Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons green onions, green parts only, thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
Directions
Step 1: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and the white part of the green onions over medium-high heat until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Once done, remove the beef mixture from the pan, drain the excess fat, and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the water, ramen noodles, and frozen vegetable medley. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Step 3: While the noodles are cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, Sriracha sauce, brown sugar, cilantro, Chinese five-spice, and ginger. Stir until the sauce ingredients are well mixed.
Step 4: Once the noodles are cooked, return the beef mixture to the skillet. Add the prepared sauce, and stir everything together. Heat through for about 2 minutes until the sauce is warmed and the ingredients are well combined.
Step 5: Serve the dish in bowls, topped with the green onion green parts and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy your delicious ramen noodle bowl!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| 345 | 17g | 26g | 24g |
Nutrition Breakdown:
- Total Fat: 17g (21% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 6g (30% Daily Value)
- Cholesterol: 71mg (24% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 1064mg (46% Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 26g (9% Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 5g (16% Daily Value)
- Protein: 24g (48% Daily Value)
- Vitamin C: 10mg (11% Daily Value)
- Calcium: 66mg (5% Daily Value)
- Iron: 4mg (21% Daily Value)
- Potassium: 478mg (10% Daily Value)
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Origin Story
The dish of Asian Ground Beef Noodle Bowls is a contemporary fusion of classic Asian ingredients, designed to be a quick and flavorful meal. Inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, this dish integrates familiar elements like ramen noodles, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and Sriracha. Ground beef, an ingredient often found in Western dishes, is incorporated as a practical protein choice, blending seamlessly into the fast-paced, vibrant flavors typical of Asian stir-fries and noodle dishes. The use of ramen noodles ties this recipe to Japan, where ramen has become a cultural icon, but the overall flavor profile embraces a broader range of Asian culinary techniques, including those from Chinese, Korean, and Thai kitchens. Its a reflection of globalization, where regional Asian foods are adapted and blended into new recipes to meet the demands of modern, busy lifestyles.
Regional Variations
This dish doesnt belong to one specific region in Asia, but rather blends influences from various cultures. Ramen noodles, which originated in Japan, are the base of the dish. The use of hoisin sauce, a staple in Chinese cooking, alongside soy sauce and Chinese five-spice powder, brings in flavors common in many Chinese dishes. Sriracha sauce, a popular Thai hot sauce, adds a spicy kick. The inclusion of frozen Asian vegetables also makes it versatile, with different regions using a variety of vegetables like bok choy, mushrooms, or snap peas. As the dish is adaptable, you might find variations of this recipe in many Asian-inspired restaurants, often with slight adjustments depending on the local preferences for spice and sweetness.
Difference from Similar Dishes
While there are many noodle bowls across Asian cuisine, this recipe stands out due to the use of ground beef as the primary protein and the fusion of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Traditional ramen or pho often feature slices of meat such as pork, beef, or chicken, while this version simplifies the process by using ground beef, which cooks faster and takes on the sauce more effectively. The combination of hoisin sauce and brown sugar creates a sweet and umami-rich sauce, a contrast to the typically more brothy, clear soups seen in other noodle dishes. The addition of Sriracha provides a unique heat level that differentiates it from milder noodle soups like miso ramen or wonton soup.
Where It Is Typically Served
Asian Ground Beef Noodle Bowls are commonly served as a home-cooked meal, particularly in busy households looking for a quick and flavorful dinner. This dish is also popular in fast-casual Asian restaurants, where its offered as a quick option for lunch or dinner. Its a great weeknight meal that doesnt require hours of preparation. Many variations of this dish can also be found in fusion restaurants, where traditional Asian recipes are adapted to Western tastes. Street food vendors in cities like Tokyo or Bangkok may offer their versions, with ingredients like pork or chicken replacing the ground beef, or with different vegetable medleys. Its a perfect dish for anyone craving bold, comforting flavors without spending much time in the kitchen.
Interesting Facts
- The use of ramen noodles, which originated in Japan, is often associated with Japanese "comfort food" but has been widely adopted in many other Asian countries.
- Ramen was first introduced to Japan in the late 19th century by Chinese immigrants, who adapted the dish to local tastes.
- Hoisin sauce, which is a key ingredient in this recipe, is a thick, fragrant sauce made from fermented soybeans, sugar, and vinegar, commonly used in Chinese cuisine.
- Sriracha, the hot sauce used in this dish, was originally created in Thailand and is named after the coastal city of Si Racha, where it was first produced.
- Ground beef is often used in fusion recipes because it cooks quickly and blends well with various sauces and spices, making it a versatile protein choice.
FAQ about Asian Ground Beef Noodle Bowls Recipe
Comments
David
10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM
I used ground venison (leaner than best ground beef you can buy) as I had it in the freezer. At the suggestion of my daughter in law I used Shin Ramyun brand spicy ramen. We all loved it . The combination of Sriracha sauce, brown sugar, cilantro, Chinese five-spice, and ginger makes this recipe stand out as authentic. The only thing I am adding next time is a fried egg to each bowl and it will be authentic!
SDELEHANTY
03/15/2021 10:38:21 PM
Great recipe. Very forgiving/adaptable to what you have on hand. I made mostly as directed except held back the sriracha because I'm a wimp and can't handle it. It was there for the others to add to their dish. Also threw in 1 packet of seasoning from the ramen package and used 2 cups of water instead of the full 2 1/2. Will be making this again.
jeanf
11/08/2023 11:20:41 PM
Made as recipe suggested. Added fresh vegetables, didn’t have frozen. Easy, quick, tasty.
J T-R
03/22/2022 11:38:30 PM
This was great! I think it would be just as good with ground pork or chicken. The recipe printed in the Oct/Nov 2021 issue states to discard the seasoning packet. Can't imagine using it as the sauce in this recipe is amazing-especially the use of the Chinese five-spice powder.
Dawn Kendall
10/28/2021 05:12:26 PM
This is my first time submitting a review but this was so good I just had to do it. I have recommended this recipe to ALL my coworkers. My only change was to use less Sriracha since I am a wimp. I have eaten the leftovers for lunch three days in a row and never get tired of it. The sauce is perfect. The second day I used Everything Bagel Seasoning, because I didn't have time to toast fresh sesame seeds. It was even more delicious! Super versatile and oh so tasty. Great recipe!
Kerry Bingham
05/28/2020 01:12:40 AM
Had to make my own hoisin sauce and Asian 5 spice, but delicious!!!!
ddooks
07/10/2023 07:34:25 PM
I follow this recipe to a ‘T.m,’ with the exception of using ground chicken instead of ground beef. This recipe is a huge hit in our family!
Kathy Poston
01/27/2022 04:06:49 AM
I made this while on vacation and adjusted to fit the ingredients on hand. Used sliced onions and peppers as the veggies, made without hoisin sauce, but most other seasonings were the same. Served with rice in a bowl - we liked it!
jjacak
08/24/2020 12:27:25 AM
My husband and I enjoyed this. The changes I made were I used thinly slice ribeye, I added both seasoning packets from the 2 Ramens. And I used only 2 cups of liquid (sodium beef broth instead of water). Deelish!
RubyBowl6379
07/10/2022 03:28:59 AM
Really good and easy. Next time I will put an egg in too
TeaLover767
04/18/2020 11:16:57 AM
I decided to try this, since ground beef often cooks up more tender than beef strips in Asian recipes. I did change it a little bit, as I had an unused packet of dry Sriracha honey seasoning. I omitted the hoisin sauce, Chinese 5-spice powder, & brown sugar, as the seasoning blend had some of those elements. It was delicious, with tongue-tingling, savory flavor without being overly hot. I plan to make again (for the reviewer who wondered about the Ramen seasoning, I chose to use just 1 packet)
Monica
09/11/2025 01:56:57 AM
Easy! I can definitely see using other proteins. I do add julienned carrot and celery, a bit of Asian fish sauce. I have even used low mein noodles and it was great.
blackhighheels
09/07/2025 12:58:06 AM
I used chinese pepper sauce instead of sriracha as that's what I had. 1 tsp was about right for me. Easy and very quick.
linda anthony
12/09/2024 12:13:26 AM
My husband and I thought it tasted very good with all the flavor mixtures!!! I will make this again!!!!
David Scott
10/15/2024 12:31:19 AM
Bro, I’m speechless — tastes epic.
Candy
12/08/2023 02:26:15 AM
This had a weird flavor. I won’t be making it again.
Francine Hurtubise
11/14/2023 11:01:17 PM
I loved it and so did my husband. Instead of ground beef I had a sirloin steak left over from the night before ..choped it and put it in...very good..great flavor. Will definitely do again.
Tiana Sinclair
04/05/2023 02:18:30 AM
loved this recipe exactly the way it is. rare!
LatinaCook
05/10/2022 12:08:28 AM
Used thin sliced sirloin steak instead. Added shiitake mushrooms. Delicious!
Georgann Haeffner
03/18/2022 09:25:50 PM
I have made a similar recipe before but this was so much better!