General Tso’s Meatball Ramen

Published:

by Victoria

Leave a Comment

General Tso’s Meatball Ramen

General Tso’s Meatball Ramen is a delightful fusion dish that brings together the comforting familiarity of instant ramen with the bold flavors of General Tso’s sauce. Perfect for any occasion—from cozy weeknight dinners to impressing guests—this recipe elevates classic ingredients into a rich and satisfying meal. With juicy meatballs and organic noodles, it’s an indulgent twist on two favorites we all know and love.

General Tso’s Meatball Ramen
Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
  • Bursting with Flavor: The combination of savory beef meatballs and tangy General Tso sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish fits right in.
  • Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make General Tso’s Meatball Ramen, you’ll need a few essential tools that streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Frying pan
  • Cooking spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all the ingredients for the meatballs without making a mess.
  • Frying pan: Ideal for cooking the meatballs evenly while allowing easy access for flipping them.

Ingredients

General Tso sauce + instant ramen = 2 things we all grew up eating. Say hello to their glow up! Our organic noodles and rich broths are the perfect foundation for this juicy, decadent take on General Tso meatballs.

Ingredients:
– 1 Mike’s Mighty Good Spicy Beef Ramen cup
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
– 1 egg
– 2 stalks green onion (sliced)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tbsp minced garlic
– 1 tsp minced ginger
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup vegetable stock
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
green chilis (sliced)
green onions (sliced)
black sesame seeds

How to Make General Tso’s Meatball Ramen

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko bread crumbs, egg, sliced green onion, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Mix everything well until fully combined.

Step 2: Form and Cook the Meatballs

  • Shape the mixture into small balls using your hands.
  • Coat each meatball in cornstarch for added crispiness.
  • Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
  • Cook the meatballs for a few minutes on each side until browned.
  • Remove from the pan and drain excess fat.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In the same pan over medium heat:
* Add vegetable stock, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, and hoisin sauce.
* Once mixed well, return the cooked meatballs to the pan.
* Simmer for about 8 minutes or until they are thoroughly cooked through. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Step 4: Prepare the Ramen

Prepare Mike’s Mighty Good Spicy Beef Ramen cup according to package instructions.

Step 5: Combine Everything in a Bowl

Transfer the prepared ramen into a bowl. Top it off with meatballs, sliced green chilis, extra green onions, and sprinkle with black sesame seeds.

Enjoy your homemade General Tso’s Meatball Ramen!

How to Serve General Tso’s Meatball Ramen

Serving General Tso’s Meatball Ramen is an art that combines visual appeal with delicious flavors. Here are some creative ways to present this dish for an unforgettable meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

  • Green Onions: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Black Sesame Seeds: Add a sprinkle of black sesame seeds for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.

Add Spice

  • Sliced Green Chilis: For those who love heat, add sliced green chilis to enhance the flavor profile.
  • Chili Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of chili oil can elevate the spiciness and overall taste.

Pair with a Side

  • Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli or bok choy to add nutritional value and color.
  • Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled carrots or radishes can balance the richness of the ramen.

Create a Ramen Bar

  • Toppings Station: Set up a toppings bar with options like soft-boiled eggs, seaweed, and extra sauces for guests to customize their bowls.
General

How to Perfect General Tso’s Meatball Ramen

To ensure your General Tso’s Meatball Ramen turns out perfectly every time, consider these useful tips.

  • Bold Flavors: Don’t be shy about using generous amounts of garlic and ginger; they truly enhance the dish’s depth.
  • Meatball Texture: Ensure your meatballs are moist yet firm by not over-mixing the beef mixture.
  • Cornstarch Coating: A light coating of cornstarch before frying helps create a crispy exterior on the meatballs.
  • Simmering Time: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce long enough for them to absorb all those rich flavors.
  • Ramen Cooking Method: Cook the ramen just until al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the hot broth.
  • Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before adding the meatballs; adjust sweetness or saltiness according to preference.

Best Side Dishes for General Tso’s Meatball Ramen

Completing your meal with side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside General Tso’s Meatball Ramen.

  1. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for a healthy appetizer that complements ramen well.
  2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar pairs nicely with the rich flavors of ramen.
  3. Fried Rice: Serve a small portion of fried rice as a hearty side that balances out your bowl of ramen.
  4. Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable or shrimp spring rolls provide a crunchy contrast to the soft noodles and meatballs.
  5. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered tempura vegetables add both texture and flavor, enhancing your Asian-themed meal.
  6. Miso Soup: A simple miso soup acts as a warm starter that prepares your palate for the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making General Tso’s Meatball Ramen, a few common mistakes can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some to watch out for:

  • Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your ingredients, especially garlic and ginger, as they can significantly impact flavor.
  • Overcooking the meatballs: Ensure you cook meatballs just until done. Overcooking can lead to dryness. Aim for a juicy texture.
  • Not measuring sauces: Using too much or too little sauce can alter the balance of flavors. Measure carefully for the best results.
  • Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds enhance both presentation and taste. Don’t skip this step!
  • Ignoring noodle preparation: Make sure to follow the ramen package instructions closely; undercooked noodles can ruin your dish.

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Keep meatballs and ramen separate to maintain noodle texture.

Freezing General Tso’s Meatball Ramen

  • Freeze meatballs separately from ramen for best results.
  • Use freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. They will last about 2-3 months.

Reheating General Tso’s Meatball Ramen

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through for even heating. Start with 1-2 minutes on medium power.
  • Stovetop: In a pan over low heat, add a splash of water or broth while stirring until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is General Tso’s Meatball Ramen?

General Tso’s Meatball Ramen combines savory meatballs inspired by General Tso’s chicken with flavorful ramen noodles, creating a delicious Asian-inspired dish.

How can I customize my General Tso’s Meatball Ramen?

Feel free to add vegetables like bok choy or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chilis.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works well in this recipe and offers a lighter option while still being flavorful.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make General Tso’s Meatball Ramen gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your ramen is also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

General Tso’s Meatball Ramen is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various customizations based on personal preferences. This fusion of flavors brings comfort food to a new level. Give it a try and enjoy experimenting with different ingredients!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
General Tso’s Meatball Ramen

General Tso’s Meatball Ramen


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Description

Discover the delightful fusion of General Tso’s Meatball Ramen, a comforting dish that elevates classic flavors into an unforgettable meal. This recipe combines juicy beef meatballs coated in a tangy General Tso’s sauce with tender ramen noodles, creating a savory experience perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, this easy-to-make dish will leave everyone craving more. Customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste buds. Dive into this rich and satisfying bowl of comfort food!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 Mike's Mighty Good Spicy Beef Ramen cup
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 stalks green onion (sliced)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp minced ginger
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup vegetable stock
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • Green chilis (sliced) for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, panko bread crumbs, egg, sliced green onion, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs and coat each in cornstarch for crispiness.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat and cook meatballs until browned. Remove and drain excess fat.
  4. In the same pan, combine vegetable stock, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, and hoisin sauce. Return meatballs to the pan and simmer for about 8 minutes.
  5. Prepare ramen according to package instructions and serve topped with meatballs, sliced green chilis, and garnishes.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 450g)
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 1200mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star