Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles have become my absolute go-to for a speedy, satisfying dinner that tastes like it came from my favorite takeout spot, but is actually incredibly simple to make at home. I remember the first time I tried to recreate this dish – I was craving those irresistible savory-sweet noodles, and honestly, I was a little intimidated. But this recipe is so forgiving! The aroma of garlic and ginger sizzling in the pan, followed by the rich, glossy sauce coating tender ground beef and perfectly cooked noodles, is just heavenly. It’s truly an easy ground beef noodles recipe that delivers big on flavor without any fuss. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Seriously, this recipe is a game-changer for busy evenings. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
- It’s incredibly fast, perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is tight.
- The clean-up is a breeze, usually just one skillet involved.
- The savory-sweet sauce is unbelievably addictive – you’ll be craving it!
- It’s a fantastic quick ground beef recipe that even picky eaters devour.
- You can easily customize the spice level to your preference.
- It’s hearty and filling, making it a complete meal on its own.
- Uses simple pantry staples you probably already have on hand.
- The aroma while it cooks is absolutely mouthwatering.
Ingredients for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious Asian ground beef dish that’s ready in a flash. The magic really happens with the sauce!
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean) – provides a rich base for the dish
- 8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti – choose your favorite for the perfect texture
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – for sautéing and browning
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – essential for that pungent, aromatic flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated – adds a warm, zesty kick
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce – the salty foundation of our savory sauce
- 1/3 cup brown sugar – balances the soy sauce with sweetness
- 1/4 cup water – helps create the perfect sauce consistency
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce – adds depth and a touch of umami
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening) – use if you like a thicker, glossier sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – for a little heat
- 2 green onions, sliced – for a fresh, crisp garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish – adds a nutty crunch
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Whipping up this incredible dish is surprisingly simple, and the results are so satisfying. You’ll have a delicious family meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Let’s get started!
- Step 1: Cook the Noodles
First things first, let’s get those noodles ready. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add your 8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until they’re just al dente. I like to rinse them briefly under cool water once drained to stop the cooking and prevent them from clumping together. Set them aside while you work on the beef.
- Step 2: Brown the Beef and Aromatics
Grab your largest skillet or wok and heat the 2 tablespoons vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the 1 lb ground beef and break it apart with your spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nicely browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess grease. Now, toss in the 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until they’re wonderfully fragrant – the kitchen will start smelling amazing!
- Step 3: Prepare and Add the Sauce
While the aromatics are sizzling, whisk together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Combine the 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, and 1/4 cup water. If you’re using it, whisk in the 1 teaspoon cornstarch now to help thicken everything later. Pour this flavorful mixture directly into the skillet with the beef and aromatics. Stir everything together well.
- Step 4: Combine and Serve
Let the sauce simmer and bubble for about 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens up to a glossy, beautiful consistency. If you’re adding the 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat, toss them in now. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss gently but thoroughly until every strand of noodle and piece of beef is coated in that irresistible sauce. Serve your amazing Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles immediately, garnished with the 2 sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Pro Tips for the Best Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Want to elevate your game for this already amazing dish? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make these Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles truly shine.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the beef; cook in batches if necessary for a good sear.
- Ensure your garlic and ginger are fresh – dried versions won’t give you that vibrant flavor punch.
- Taste and adjust the sauce before adding the noodles. You might want a little more sweetness or saltiness.
- For extra saucy noodles, don’t be afraid to double the sauce ingredients.
What’s the secret to perfect Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?
The key is the sauce balance and not overcooking the noodles. A perfect panade of soy, brown sugar, and hoisin creates those wonderfully savory noodles. And remember, they’ll cook a bit more in the sauce!
Can I make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and brown the beef ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just cook the noodles fresh and combine everything when you’re ready to eat for the best texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?
Avoid overcooking your noodles initially; they should be al dente as they’ll soften in the sauce. Also, make sure your skillet is hot enough for a good sear on the beef, which adds depth of flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
This flavorful dish is fantastic on its own, but I love serving it with a few simple sides to make it a complete meal. Imagine a platter of these glossy noodles alongside some crisp, steamed broccoli or vibrant green beans. It’s a delicious combination that balances the richness of the beef and sauce perfectly. For a fun twist, think of it as a deconstructed ground beef stir fry and serve it over fluffy white rice instead of noodles for a different texture. Another great idea is to pair it with a light, refreshing cucumber salad to cut through the savory flavors. It’s always a hit!
Nutrition Facts for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
This recipe makes about 4 servings, and here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per bowl. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish!
- Calories: 480
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 980mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
One of the best things about this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is how well it stores, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Once it’s cooled down completely, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers. These are perfect for storing in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can pop these containers into the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes it super convenient for grabbing a quick and delicious meal on a busy day, truly an easy ground beef recipe for reheating!
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored noodles, there are a couple of easy ways to reheat them. For the best texture, I recommend gently reheating on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. You can also microwave them, stirring halfway through, until hot. If the sauce seems a little thick after storage, a splash of water or broth can help loosen it up. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Can I use a different type of noodle for this recipe?
Absolutely! While lo mein noodles or spaghetti are my favorites for this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe, feel free to experiment. Udon noodles, ramen noodles, or even thick-cut linguine work wonderfully. Just cook them according to their package directions until al dente, as they will continue to soften slightly when tossed with the sauce.
Is this recipe very spicy? Can I adjust the heat?
The recipe includes optional crushed red pepper flakes for a mild kick. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or a swirl of sriracha or chili garlic sauce when you add the noodles. If you like it mild, simply omit the red pepper flakes altogether. It’s a truly customizable dish!
How can I make this a healthier option?
To make this a healthier quick ground beef recipe, you can swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken. You could also reduce the brown sugar slightly or use a sugar substitute. Another great option is to serve the beef and sauce mixture over cauliflower rice or brown rice instead of noodles for a lower-carb meal.
What if I don’t have hoisin sauce?
Hoisin sauce adds a unique depth of flavor and sweetness that’s hard to replicate exactly, but you can still achieve a delicious result without it. Try substituting it with an equal amount of oyster sauce, or for a vegetarian version, use vegetarian oyster sauce. If you don’t have either, a bit more soy sauce mixed with a touch of molasses or dark brown sugar can help mimic some of that richness.
Variations of Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles You Can Try
While this classic Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! I love experimenting with different proteins and spice levels to keep things interesting. It’s a versatile dish that easily adapts to your preferences.
- Protein Swap: Instead of ground beef, try using lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take. If you’re feeling adventurous, thinly sliced flank steak or even firm tofu (cubed and pan-fried) can work wonderfully, though cooking times will vary.
- Spice It Up: For those who love a fiery kick, amp up the heat! Add more crushed red pepper flakes, a generous swirl of sriracha, or even some fresh chopped chilies when you add the aromatics. You can also serve it with a side of chili oil for dipping.
- Vegetable Boost: Sneak in some extra veggies by adding thinly sliced bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli florets, or shredded carrots along with the beef and aromatics. They add color, texture, and extra nutrients to your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles.
- Noodle Alternatives: While traditional noodles are great, consider using zucchini noodles for a low-carb version or even rice vermicelli for a lighter feel. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles: 10 Minute Meal
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Quick and easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe ready in under 30 minutes. This Asian-inspired noodle dish features tender ground beef tossed in a savory-sweet Mongolian sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and made with simple pantry staples, perfect for busy families and meal preppers.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Boil the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Rinse lightly to prevent sticking.
- Brown the beef: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, water, and cornstarch. Pour into the skillet with the beef.
- Simmer and combine: Cook 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add noodles and toss until evenly coated.
- Garnish and serve: Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best authentic flavor.
- Cook noodles to al dente – they’ll continue softening in the sauce.
- Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for extra heat.
- Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Double the sauce if you prefer extra saucy noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course, Asian-Inspired
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg