Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
If you are craving a dish that packs a punch of flavor yet comes together in a flash, the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This vibrant and savory meal combines tender ground beef with a saucy, slightly sweet glaze poured over perfectly cooked noodles, creating a balanced plate that hits all the right notes. It’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of Chinese-inspired comfort food to your weeknight dinner table without the fuss. Every bite offers a delightful blend of rich umami, subtle sweetness, and that touch of warmth from the ginger and garlic, making this recipe truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe uses simple ingredients that you might already have on hand, yet every single one plays an essential role in delivering that signature flavor and texture. From the umami-packed soy sauce to the fresh zip of ginger and garlic, these ingredients come together to create a dish that’s as aromatic as it is delicious.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that absorbs all the wonderful sauce flavors.
- 8 oz noodles (spaghetti or rice noodles): These provide the perfect chewy texture to soak up the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for sautéing, it helps brown the beef evenly without sticking.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a subtle bite to the overall dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Injects a fresh, slightly spicy zing that keeps the dish lively.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: The salty, savory backbone of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce: Offers a mild sweetness and richness that balances the soy sauce perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Sweetens the mixture and enhances caramel-like notes in the sauce.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps loosen the sauce and blend all the flavors evenly.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional): If you want a thicker sauce, this little addition works wonders as a thickening agent.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat for those who like a bit of spice.
- 2 green onions, chopped: Fresh and crisp, they’re perfect for garnish and a burst of color.
- Sesame seeds: These nutty seeds give a subtle crunch and an extra layer of flavor on top.
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Begin by cooking your noodles according to the instructions on the package. Whether you choose spaghetti or rice noodles, perfect tenderness is key here. Once cooked, make sure to drain them thoroughly and set them aside so they’re ready to mingle with the beef and sauce later.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and let it brown beautifully, breaking it apart with your spoon for an even, crumbly texture. Cooking the beef well ensures you unlock all those rich meaty flavors that will carry the dish.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
When your beef is perfectly browned, toss in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Stir and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until you can’t resist the fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen. These aromatics bring a lively depth that’s crucial for a memorable Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and water. For those who prefer a sauce with more body, mix the cornstarch with a splash of water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce mixture. Whisk everything together so the flavors blend seamlessly.
Step 5: Combine Sauce and Beef
Pour this luscious sauce over the browned beef in the skillet and stir to coat every crumb. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly and glazes the beef with glossy, flavorful goodness.
Step 6: Add the Noodles
Now, fold in the cooked noodles, tossing them carefully to ensure every strand is generously coated in the sauce. This is where the dish really comes together, melding textures and flavors into one harmonious bite.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove your skillet from heat and sprinkle red pepper flakes if you want a little extra kick. Top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that final touch of freshness and crunch. Serve it warm and watch everyone dive in happily.
How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes like freshly chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds add vibrant color and enticing texture that elevate the dish aesthetically and flavor-wise. If you like a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes is simply fantastic here.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides such as steamed bok choy, crunchy cucumber salad, or even a light miso soup. These sides refresh the palate and add layers of texture and flavor contrast without overpowering the main course.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe, try serving it in lettuce wraps or alongside pickled vegetables for bursts of acidity. You can also sprinkle some chopped peanuts or cilantro on top for an unexpected crunch and herbal brightness that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles will absorb flavors more deeply over time, making the next meal just as satisfying.
Freezing
To freeze, portion your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months. Be aware that noodles might soften slightly after freezing, so slightly undercook them initially if you plan to freeze.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking. You can add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works well too—just cover and heat in short bursts for best results.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and will work well with the sauce in this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe. Just be mindful to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning if needed.
What type of noodles works best?
Spaghetti and rice noodles are both fantastic options. Spaghetti mimics the chewy texture of traditional Chinese egg noodles, while rice noodles offer a lighter, gluten-free choice. Whichever you choose, cook them just until al dente.
Is the dish spicy?
The classic recipe is mild but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil if you like your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe with some heat. It’s all about customizing to your preference.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or crumbled tofu. You may want to increase the amount of sauce and seasonings slightly to maintain the flavor punch.
How long does the recipe take to make?
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe comes together in about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want something delicious without a long wait.
Final Thoughts
Now you have a fantastic recipe that’s not only quick and easy but bursting with flavor in every bite—our Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe is destined to become a household favorite. It’s a comforting, savory meal that feels special without any hassle. Give it a try, and I promise it will brighten your dinner routine while charming every palate at your table.
Print
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A flavorful and quick Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe that combines tender ground beef with a savory hoisin-soy sauce and perfectly cooked noodles. This stir-fried dish is garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for a simple yet delicious meal ready in 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
Noodles
- 8 oz noodles (spaghetti or rice noodles work well)
Sauce and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Garnishes
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until tender. Drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside to be added later.
- Cook the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it is fully browned and cooked through.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger to the cooked beef. Continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is aromatic and fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and water. If a thicker sauce is preferred, create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with a little water and add it to this sauce mixture.
- Combine Sauce and Beef: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef in the skillet. Stir well to coat the beef evenly, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Add Noodles: Add the cooked noodles directly into the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the noodles are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the dish if you desire some heat, then garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles warm for the best taste.
Notes
- You can substitute spaghetti noodles with rice noodles or any preferred noodle type.
- For a thicker sauce, do not skip the cornstarch slurry step.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference or omit for mild flavor.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce for reduced sodium content.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian, Chinese-inspired
