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Savory Korean Beef Sesame Noodles for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Quick and flavorful Korean Beef Sesame Noodles perfect for weeknight dinners, combining rich flavors in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Noodles
  • 8 ounces Noodles Your choice of spaghetti, udon, ramen, or rice noodles.
For the Beef
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey or tofu.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Vegetable oil can be used in a pinch.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger Preferably fresh, for best flavor.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Always use fresh minced garlic.
For the Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Use gluten-free tamari if needed.
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar or Honey Maple syrup is a good substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Apple cider vinegar can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Gochujang or Red Pepper Flakes Adjust based on heat preference.
  • 2 teaspoons Cornstarch Used to thicken the sauce if desired.
For the Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Seeds
  • 2 stalks Green Onions Can substitute with chives.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup Sliced Cucumbers
  • 1 cup Shredded Carrots
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro
  • 1 cup Kimchi

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your choice of noodles, cooking them according to the package instructions for roughly 7-10 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula until browned.
  3. Once the beef is cooked, introduce the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Stir and cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, rice vinegar, and gochujang. Stir to combine and allow to simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
  5. To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch with a little water and add to the skillet, stirring continuously for another 1-2 minutes.
  6. Add the cooked noodles into the skillet with the beef and sauce, tossing gently for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Offer optional toppings on the side.

Notes

These noodles can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, and the flavors develop beautifully when left to sit.