Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are a delicious, quick, and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. This dish features savory ground beef, tender noodles, and a sweet and tangy sauce that’s inspired by classic Mongolian flavors. With a blend of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, this meal will be on the table in under 30 minutes and will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 8 oz dried spaghetti or lo mein noodles
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Boil Noodles: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Beef and Onion: Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch until well combined.
- Add Sauce to Beef: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef. Stir to coat the beef evenly, and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Step 4: Combine with Noodles
- Add Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to combine everything well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the noodles are heated through and coated with the sauce.
- Season: Season with black pepper and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to minimize excess grease, or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Noodles: You can use spaghetti, lo mein, or even rice noodles for this dish—whichever you have on hand.
- Cornstarch: The cornstarch helps to thicken the sauce and make it cling to the noodles. Be sure to mix it well with the other sauce ingredients before adding it to the skillet.
Variations
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the skillet for added nutrition and color.
- Spicy Version: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sriracha for an extra spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tamari in place of soy sauce and serve over rice noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad or Asian cucumber salad to add a fresh element to your meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans to balance the richness of the noodles.
- Appetizer: Serve with spring rolls or potstickers for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Freeze Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What Other Proteins Can I Use?
You can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even tofu as a substitute for ground beef if desired. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that combines tender noodles, savory ground beef, and a rich, slightly sweet sauce. It’s a dish that comes together easily and satisfies your craving for takeout-style food at home. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you can whip up this comforting dish in no time. Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy a bowl of these delicious noodles with your loved ones!
Happy Cooking!
