If you’re looking for the ultimate weeknight dinner that’s fast, flavorful, and wins over even the pickiest eaters, allow me to gush about Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles! This comforting stir-fry brings together tender noodles with savory-sweet ground beef and a boldly spiced, garlicky sauce that absolutely clings to every bite. The beauty is in its simplicity—each ingredient does serious heavy lifting—and it comes together in less time than it takes to order takeout. Whether you’re after a quick meal for busy nights or just want something wildly yummy, Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles will not disappoint.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love the most about Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is how approachable the ingredient list is. Each item plays a key role in creating fantastic taste, texture, and those beautiful colors that make this dish so appetizing. Here’s everything you’ll need, along with my best tips:
- Noodles (8 oz, lo mein, spaghetti, or ramen): Pick your favorite type—lo mein is classic, but even spaghetti or ramen works for maximum slurp-ability.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Brings rich, meaty flavor and soaks up all that Mongolian sauce for hearty bites in every forkful.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Helps brown the beef and prevents sticking—use any neutral oil you like.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Freshly minced garlic is a game-changer for deep, aromatic flavor.
- Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): Adds zingy brightness and warmth you just can’t skip.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/2 cup): The salty backbone of the sauce—low-sodium keeps things from getting too salty.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Balances the savory soy sauce with a touch of sweetness.
- Hoisin sauce (2 tablespoons): Gives a sweet, tangy depth that’s signature to Mongolian sauces.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the sauce so it beautifully clings to every noodle.
- Water (1/2 cup): Helps mellow and distribute the sauce’s flavors so each bite is perfect.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle heat that can be adjusted or omitted as you like.
- Green onions (4, sliced): Add fresh color and a crisp onion-y punch at the end.
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional): For a pretty finishing touch and a subtle nutty crunch.
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by bringing a big pot of water to a boil and cook your noodles according to the package directions. You want them just tender, not mushy—they’ll finish cooking with the sauce. Drain them and set aside; a quick toss in a drizzle of oil will keep them from sticking if you’re feeling extra organized.
Step 2: Whisk the Sauce Together
In a small bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, and water. Give it all a good whisk so the cornstarch fully dissolves. This quick stir is what’ll guarantee your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles have that lush, glossy sauce clinging to every bite!
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Grab your largest skillet or wok and heat up the vegetable oil over medium-high. Add the ground beef and break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Let it get nicely browned for maximum flavor—don’t rush! If there’s excess fat, go ahead and drain it.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger
With the beef browned, toss in your minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for just 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly. You’ll know it’s ready when everything smells absolutely irresistible. This is the moment where the kitchen really starts to smell like magic.
Step 5: Simmer with the Sauce
Pour in the sauce mixture and stir to coat every bit of beef. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes—the sauce will thicken thanks to the cornstarch and become shiny and rich. This is the heart of that classic Mongolian flavor!
Step 6: Add Noodles and Toss
Tip in your cooked noodles and gently toss everything together, making sure all those strands are thoroughly coated. Cook for another 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld, then add in sliced green onions and optional red pepper flakes for brightness and kick.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Serve your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles piping hot. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for a little crunch if you’ve got them, and bring everyone to the table quickly—these are best enjoyed fresh!
How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Garnishes
The finishing touches make all the difference with any noodle dish! Scatter extra green onions for that zippy fresh pop, and don’t forget the sesame seeds for a nutty accent. If you’re a chili fan, a pinch more red pepper flakes never hurts. A few sprigs of cilantro or a drizzle of toasted sesame oil also add a restaurant-worthy flourish to Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles.
Side Dishes
A crisp veggie side is always welcome—think steamed broccoli, sautéed snap peas, or a quick cucumber salad. Even some homemade spring rolls or a simple bowl of miso soup will pair beautifully with the savory-sweet notes of Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles. Balance is everything!
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving a crowd, try piling the noodles high on a big platter family-style, letting everyone dig in with chopsticks or forks. For a fun twist, swirl the noodles into individual bowls, top with a poached egg, or serve over a nest of stir-fried vegetables for a modern take. Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles also look gorgeous sprinkled with extra garnishes in a shallow, wide bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are a total gift for weekday lunches! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles will absorb a bit of sauce as they sit but will reheat beautifully—just add a drizzle of water before warming to freshen things up.
Freezing
If you want to freeze for longer storage, let the noodles cool completely, then portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. For best texture, try to freeze the noodle and beef mixture separately from any fresh garnishes.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, reheat Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently and adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual portions, but don’t forget to cover loosely and stir halfway for even heating. Top with fresh green onions for that just-made flavor!
FAQs
Can I make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap in gluten-free tamari for soy sauce and choose gluten-free hoisin sauce and noodles (like rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti). You’ll get all the same bold flavors in a gluten-free package.
What kind of noodles work best?
Lo mein noodles are classic, but honestly, anything goes—from spaghetti to ramen or even udon. The key is to cook them just to al dente so they stay nice and chewy after tossing with the sauce.
Can I use a different kind of protein?
Definitely. Ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully for a lighter take, and you could even try ground pork for a slightly different richness. Just make sure to cook your choice of protein fully before adding the sauce!
How spicy are these noodles?
The default recipe has just a subtle kick, thanks to optional crushed red pepper flakes. If you prefer zero heat, simply leave those out. For spice lovers, add more to taste or swirl in a bit of Sriracha for extra zing!
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, and it’s encouraged! Stir in steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, snow peas, or bell peppers when you add the noodles for added color, crunch, and nutrition. Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles take so well to veggie upgrades.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something about twirling into a big, saucy bowl of Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles that always feels like a treat—yet it’s so achievable on a whim! I can’t recommend trying this recipe enough for anyone craving easy, delicious comfort food that absolutely lives up to the hype.
Print
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles that combines savory ground beef with flavorful Asian-inspired sauces, served over noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Noodles:
- 8 oz noodles (lo mein, spaghetti, or ramen)
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, and water; set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Flavorings: Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the sauce mixture and stir to coat the beef. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked noodles and toss to combine, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until heated through. Stir in green onions and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, or snap peas for extra vegetables.
- Use gluten-free tamari and rice noodles to make it gluten-free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
