If you’re craving a dish that’s comforting, packed full of flavor, and super quick to whip up, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe. Imagine tender ground beef bathed in a rich, sweet-savory sauce, perfectly coating every strand of tender noodles. It’s a flavorful, crowd-pleasing meal that’s as satisfying for a busy weeknight as it is for casual weekend dinners. Plus, the combination of garlic, ginger, soy, and brown sugar gives it that irresistible Mongolian-inspired twist you won’t forget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays a crucial role in building the vibrant layers of flavor and perfect texture that make this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe so special. From the umami-packed soy sauce to the sweet touch of brown sugar, every element works together to take this dish from ordinary to unforgettable.
- 8 ounces of lo mein noodles or spaghetti: These noodles create the perfect base, soaking up all the sauce while providing a satisfying bite.
- 1 pound of ground beef: The hearty protein that carries the depth of flavor in this recipe, browned and seasoned to perfection.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for sautéing, it ensures even cooking and helps develop rich flavors.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that’s essential for that classic Asian-inspired aroma.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced: Provides a zesty, warming heat that balances the sweetness in the sauce.
- 1/2 cup soy sauce: The salty, savory backbone of the sauce that brings everything together.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Introduces a rich sweetness that creates the signature contrast in Mongolian dishes.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps create the sauce’s perfect consistency when mixed with cornstarch.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Key for thickening the sauce to coat the noodles beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick for those who love a hint of spice.
- 2 green onions, chopped: Sprinkled on top, they bring a fresh, crisp bite and vibrant color.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: Toasted to add a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Basic but essential seasonings to enhance overall flavor.
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the noodles
Begin by cooking your choice of lo mein noodles or spaghetti according to the package directions. This step is easy but important—cooking them just right ensures they hold the sauce perfectly without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set these aside, ready for their flavorful moment.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef, seasoning it with a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out its natural richness. Use a spatula to break the beef into small crumbles, cooking until it’s nicely browned and fragrant. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from feeling greasy before transferring the beef to a plate temporarily.
Step 3: Sauté garlic and ginger
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until their wonderful aromas fill the kitchen. This quick sauté unlocks the flavors that will make your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe sing with authenticity.
Step 4: Prepare and add the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pan with the garlic and ginger. If you’re using crushed red pepper flakes, add them now to introduce just the right amount of heat. Bring the mixture down to low heat and let it simmer gently, stirring often until the sauce thickens slightly into a luscious coating.
Step 5: Combine beef and noodles
Return the browned ground beef to the pan, stirring well to coat every morsel in that thickened sauce. Then, add the cooked noodles. Toss everything together so the noodles soak up all those beautiful flavors. This is where the dish truly comes together—the glossy, flavorful noodles intertwined with savory beef create pure magic.
Step 6: Add finishing touches
Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the noodle and beef mixture. Give everything a final toss to distribute these fresh, crunchy accents evenly throughout. These little touches lift the dish visually and add texture that will delight your taste buds with every bite.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy
Your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed warm! Plate up your creation and get ready to savor the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors with every forkful.
How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
While the green onions and sesame seeds are classic, feel free to get creative by adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a dusting of toasted peanuts, or even a few slices of fresh chili for a colorful, spicy punch. These garnishes elevate the dish’s flavor profile and presentation, making every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
To round out this meal, consider serving with simple stir-fried vegetables, like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy. A crisp Asian slaw or a light cucumber salad with a tangy dressing also pairs beautifully, adding refreshing contrast to the rich noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe in individual bowls topped with a soft-boiled egg or pair it with crispy wonton chips for added texture. If you’re entertaining, consider assembling it as a noodle bar where guests can customize their garnishes and spice levels for personalized plates full of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the sauce’s flavor and prevent the noodles from drying out. When you’re ready to eat, it’s a quick step away from deliciousness again.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delightful dish for longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool the noodles and beef mixture completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and bring back that luscious coating. Microwaving works too, but be sure to stir halfway through for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle for this recipe?
Absolutely! While lo mein or spaghetti works wonderfully, you can experiment with rice noodles, udon, or even soba noodles depending on your preference. Just adjust cooking times according to the noodle type.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu or finely chopped mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian twist. Increase the garlic and ginger slightly to keep the flavors bold.
How spicy is this dish normally?
By default, it’s mildly spiced thanks to the optional crushed red pepper flakes. You can customize the heat level by adjusting or omitting this ingredient to suit your taste buds.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely. The sauce mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before adding it to the pan during cooking.
What sides go best with Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe?
Simple vegetable stir-fries, steamed greens, or even light soups complement the rich noodles beautifully. Think fresh and crisp to balance the savory main dish.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this fantastic Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe in your repertoire, I highly encourage you to give it a try. It’s quick, comforting, and bursting with vibrant flavors that will soon become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether for a busy weeknight or feeding friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy every time.
Print
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish featuring tender ground beef simmered in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce, combined with al dente lo mein noodles. Enhanced with garlic, ginger, and a touch of spice, this quick and easy stir-fry style meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or anytime you crave comforting Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles or spaghetti
Ground Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce and Flavorings
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnishes
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Prepare the lo mein or spaghetti noodles according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Brown Ground Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking the beef into small pieces, until it is fully browned. Drain any excess fat, then remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pan with the garlic and ginger. Add crushed red pepper flakes if using for a bit of heat.
- Simmer Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly, which should take a few minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Combine Beef and Sauce: Return the cooked ground beef to the pan, mixing it well with the thickened sauce to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Add Noodles: Toss in the cooked noodles and stir everything thoroughly so the noodles are evenly coated with the savory sauce.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the noodles and mix well to incorporate the fresh and nutty flavors throughout the dish.
- Serve: Serve the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles warm for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute spaghetti if lo mein noodles are unavailable, but lo mein offers the most authentic texture.
- For extra vegetables, consider adding sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots during the sautéing step.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar to control the sweetness of the sauce according to your taste.
- To make this dish spicier, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha.
- Be sure to rinse the noodles after cooking to prevent them from sticking together when mixed with the sauce.
