Skip the Takeout—This Healthy Beef Drunken Noodle Recipe Is Better and Faster

healthy beef drunken noodle

Some nights, I just want something fast and flavor-packed. I’m sure you can relate! When the craving hits, it’s tempting to reach for a takeout menu from my favorite Thai spot. But recently, I discovered I could skip the wait, avoid the excess sodium and unknown ingredients, and make a better version at home. In less time (with significantly less cash) than it takes for delivery or to run out and pick up my order.

This healthy beef drunken noodle recipe delivers all the rich, savory flavors Thai food lovers crave but with a fresh, wholesome twist. It starts with thinly sliced sirloin steak (preferably grass-fed and local if you can find it) and then uses millet brown rice ramen noodles (thanks, Costco!), and a generous helping of veggies. Thus, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and of course, vibrant flavors. 

Best of all? It all comes together in less than 30 minutes—which (at least in my area) is waaay faster than delivery. 

Why We Love This Healthy Beef Drunken Noodle Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this tasty recipe! It’s…

  1. Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights or eventful weekends.
  2. Packed with nutrients—because it’s made with healthy, wholesome ingredients, including high-quality protein, nutrient-rich veggies, and a higher fiber noodle choice.
  3. Bold, authentic flavor—thanks to the garlic, peppers, basil, and a flavorful sauce.
  4. Gluten-free—the millet brown rice ramen makes this recipe naturally gluten-free for folks who are avoiding it. (Watch the sauces, though, as they can sometimes contain gluten.)
  5. Customizable—swap out the beef for chicken, tofu, or extra veggies, depending on what’s available and what you prefer.
healthy beef drunken noodle

Healthy Beef Drunken Noodles

Course: dinner
Keyword: healthy beef drunken noodle
Servings: 6
Calories: 310kcal

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup low-sodium tamari sauce
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 3 Tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 Tbsp Swerve brown sugar replacement
  • 1 Tbsp fish sauce
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 squares or “cakes” 6 servings millet brown rice ramen
  • 1 pound sirloin steak thinly sliced
  • 2 jalapenos seeds removed
  • 1 bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 small sweet onion thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup basil leaves preferably Thai, roughly chopped

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, combine tamari sauce, water, oyster sauce, brown sugar replacement, and fish sauce. Set aside.
  • Prepare the noodles per package instructions, drain, and set aside. (While they’re cooking is a good time to slice your vegetables and meat if you haven’t already.) Be careful to avoid overcooking the noodles, as they soften quickly. For best results, keep a close eye on them.
  • Set a wok (or large skillet) over high heat and add the olive oil.
  • Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced beef, chilis, peppers, and onion. Sauté quickly, stir-frying (i.e., moving everything around frequently) the meat and vegetables to prevent them from sticking or burning.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
  • Pour in the sauce and add the noodles, tossing to combine, and continue cooking until the sauce cooks down and nicely coats the noodles.
  • Remove from heat and add the basil.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

Make sure you slice the beef thinly and cut it against the grain for the most tender, flavorful bites. 
You can adjust the heat by adding chilis or sriracha or skipping the jalapeno. 
If you find it difficult to find or just want a vegetarian option, you can replace the oyster sauce with hoisin and the fish sauce with extra tamari. 

Nutrition

Sugar: 4g | Fiber: 3g | Calories: 310kcal | Fat: 13g | Protein: 18g | Carbohydrates: 32g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Next time you’re craving takeout, take a pause. You can enjoy something faster, fresher, healthier, and just as delicious! Packed with bold Thai flavors and nutrient-rich ingredients, this healthy beef drunken noodle recipe is sure to become a fast favorite.