Name: Kimchi Beef Noodle Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb thinly sliced beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 cup kimchi, chopped; 2 tablespoons kimchi juice (optional); 5 cups beef broth or stock; 2 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free if needed); 8 oz noodles (ramen, udon, or rice noodles); 2 green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish); Salt and pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love bold, umami-rich flavors with a bit of spice, this soup is for you. The kimchi adds a tangy and slightly spicy punch, while the beef brings richness and heartiness. The noodles make it filling and slurp-worthy, and the broth ties everything together with warmth and depth. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal and customizable to your spice preference and what you have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Thinly sliced beef (like flank steak or sirloin)
Kimchi (plus some kimchi juice)
Garlic
Ginger
Onion
Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
Soy sauce
Beef broth or stock
Sesame oil
Noodles (ramen, udon, or rice noodles)
Green onions
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
Add the sliced beef and cook until browned.
Stir in gochujang and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Add kimchi and a bit of kimchi juice, stirring well to combine.
Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let the soup cook for about 15–20 minutes to develop the flavor.
While the soup simmers, cook the noodles separately according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with soy sauce, salt, or pepper as needed.
Add the cooked noodles to serving bowls, then ladle the hot soup over the top.
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicier Version: Add more gochujang or a dash of Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru).
Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth.
Different Noodles: Try soba, egg noodles, or glass noodles depending on your preference.
Add Veggies: Include spinach, napa cabbage, or bean sprouts for extra nutrition and texture.
Milder Version: Use less kimchi and gochujang for a gentler spice level.

Storage/Reheating

Let the soup cool completely before storing.

Refrigerator: Store the soup and noodles separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: The soup (without noodles) can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Reheat noodles separately and combine when serving.

FAQs

What kind of beef works best for this soup?

Thinly sliced flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye work best as they cook quickly and stay tender in the broth.

Is kimchi beef noodle soup spicy?

Yes, it has a natural spiciness from the kimchi and gochujang, but you can adjust the heat to your liking.

Can I use store-bought kimchi?

Absolutely. Use your favorite brand of fermented napa cabbage kimchi for convenience and great flavor.

How do I make the soup less sour?

Use younger kimchi and reduce the amount of kimchi juice added to the broth.

What type of noodles should I use?

Ramen, udon, or rice noodles are all great choices. Use what you prefer or have on hand.

Can I use leftover beef?

Yes, leftover cooked beef can be added during the final simmering step to warm through.

How do I store leftover soup with noodles?

It’s best to store the noodles separately from the broth to avoid sogginess when reheating.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, the broth develops even more flavor over time. Just add fresh noodles when serving.

What can I serve with this soup?

Serve it with Korean side dishes like pickled radish, extra kimchi, or a soft-boiled egg on top.

Is this soup gluten-free?

It can be if you use gluten-free noodles and ensure your soy sauce and gochujang are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Kimchi Beef Noodle Soup is a flavorful, comforting, and soul-warming dish that’s easy to make and packed with bold Korean flavors. Whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine or warm up on a chilly night, this soup hits all the right notes. It’s customizable, quick to prepare, and sure to become a favorite go-to meal.