Spicy Korean Beef Noodles
Experience bold and authentic Korean flavors with this quick and easy Spicy Korean Beef Noodles recipe. Tender ground beef is cooked with fragrant garlic and ginger, combined with spicy and slightly sweet gochujang sauce, and tossed with chewy noodles and optional fresh vegetables. Perfectly balanced, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or sharing with family and friends.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Gluten Free (with substitutions)
Beef and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil, plus extra for finishing
Noodles and Vegetables
- 8 oz Korean noodles or ramen noodles (or substitute rice noodles for gluten-free)
- Optional vegetables: 1 cup sliced bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini
Garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking, as properly cooked noodles are the foundation of this dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon sesame oil and sauté the finely chopped garlic and ginger until fragrant and golden to infuse the dish with deep aromas.
- Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Brown thoroughly until no pink remains and the beef releases its juices, which will blend well with the sauce.
- Season the Beef: Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Mix well, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the beef, forming the core flavor of the dish.
- Combine with Noodles and Vegetables: Add the cooked noodles and any optional vegetables to the skillet. Toss gently to coat evenly and heat through, allowing the noodles to absorb the bold flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling sliced green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil on top. Add toasted sesame seeds if desired, then serve hot for a flavorful presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic and ginger instead of powders for a more vibrant flavor.
- Adjust the amount of gochujang to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Brown the beef well for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Avoid overcooking the noodles; they should remain slightly firm.
- Let the dish rest for a minute before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Spicy Korean Beef, Korean Noodles, Gochujang Beef, Quick Korean Dinner, Spicy Beef Noodles, Korean Comfort Food