There’s something instantly comforting about a big bowl of savory noodles, and Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles absolutely delivers a cozy dinner in just 25 minutes! This dish brings together rich, caramelized ground beef, aromatic garlic and ginger, and a sweet-and-salty sauce that sleeks every strand of tender noodles. With its satisfying flavors, beautiful colors, and quick-cooking method, Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is that magical weeknight dinner you’ll want in your regular rotation (and your lunchbox the next day).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is joyfully simple, but every ingredient truly has a starring role. From a tangle of noodles to the deeply savory sauce, here’s what you’ll need to bring out the very best flavor and texture.
- 8 ounces lo mein or spaghetti noodles: These provide the perfect, chewy base and soak up all that irresistible sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Just a drizzle adds a nutty, toasty fragrance that makes the beef irresistible.
- 1 pound ground beef: Quick to cook and loaded with flavor, this is the hearty soul of the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a bold, aromatic punch that lifts the entire meal.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Ginger brings a gentle heat and complexity that balances the sweet and salty.
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce: The foundation of the sauce, keeping everything flavorful but not too salty.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Gives that signature Mongolian zing—a touch of sweetness in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce: For depth, umami, and a hint of that classic Asian-inspired richness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water: Creates that silky, glossy sauce that hugs every noodle.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Add for a little spicy thrill if you want some kick.
- 3 green onions, sliced: Bright, fresh, and a pop of color for the perfect finish.
- Sesame seeds, for garnish: A sprinkling brings crunch and makes the dish feel extra special.
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by cooking your lo mein or spaghetti noodles according to the package directions. You want them tender but not mushy, so be sure to keep an eye on the timer. Once cooked, drain them and set aside. This gives you a head start, so everything is ready when the beef and sauce come together.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat up the sesame oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef, using a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Let it get beautifully browned and cooked all the way through—those caramelized bits are pure flavor. If there’s extra fat, simply drain it off.
Step 3: Aromatics Make the Magic
Now, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for just about a minute, stirring often so nothing burns. These two aromatics are key: your kitchen will smell fabulous, and they infuse the beef with an authentic, craveable kick.
Step 4: Mix and Simmer the Sauce
While the beef cooks, quickly whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, and your cornstarch slurry (that’s the cornstarch mixed with water) in a small bowl. Pour this sauce into your skillet with the beef and aromatics. Stir it all up and let it simmer for two to three minutes, or until the sauce thickens and glistens.
Step 5: Bring it All Together
Add your drained noodles right into the skillet. Toss everything together until each noodle is slicked with the savory-sweet sauce and sprinkled with saucy ground beef. If you like a little heat, now’s the time to add those crushed red pepper flakes. Stir, taste, and get ready for the finishing touches.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top the steaming skillet with sliced green onions and a generous dash of sesame seeds. This not only looks gorgeous but adds color, crunch, and a fresh element that balances every cozy bite. Serve your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles piping hot!
How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Garnishes
Don’t skip the finishing touches—they transform a delicious meal into a special occasion! I love scattering extra green onions for brightness, sesame seeds for subtle crunch, and if you’re feeling fancy, even a few thinly sliced fresh chilies for color and spice. These little details are the difference between weeknight dinner and restaurant-style presentation.
Side Dishes
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are super satisfying on their own, but if you’re feeding a crowd or just want a little extra, serve them with steamed broccoli, sautéed bok choy, or some quick pickled cucumbers to add a fresh, crunchy contrast. A simple miso soup or a light Asian-inspired salad also complements those bold, savory flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or potlucks, try serving Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles as individual noodle bowls topped with extra veggies and garnishes. Or pile everything into a large platter and let guests help themselves family-style! You can even roll leftovers into lettuce wraps for a fun, hand-held twist that makes lunch extra exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles keep surprisingly well—just scoop them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually meld and deepen over time, making leftovers taste just as good (if not better) the next day.
Freezing
If you want to freeze Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles, let them cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. Try to press out as much air as possible. They’ll stay tasty for up to two months—just remember, noodles can soften a bit once thawed, but the flavors remain fantastic.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave in short bursts, stirring between each to avoid overheating. Or, rewarm gently in a skillet with a splash of water to keep everything nice and saucy. Garnish with fresh green onions and sesame seeds after reheating for a just-cooked finish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles work beautifully with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist, or even with plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option. Just expect a slight shift in flavor and texture depending on your choice, but the sauce ties everything together deliciously.
What vegetables can I add?
This dish loves a veggie boost! Stir in steamed broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition. Just make sure veggies stay crisp-tender for the best bite.
Are Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can make them gluten-free by swapping in gluten-free tamari for the soy sauce, using a certified gluten-free hoisin sauce, and choosing rice noodles or another gluten-free pasta. Make sure to double-check all ingredient labels to keep things safe!
Can I make this spicy?
Definitely—add the crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce or top with sliced fresh chilies if you like things extra spicy. Sriracha or chili-garlic sauce on the side is also a fabulous idea for heat-seekers.
What’s the best way to prevent the noodles from sticking?
Toss your drained noodles with a little splash of sesame oil before adding them to the pan, especially if they’ll be sitting for a few minutes. This helps prevent clumping and ensures they stay slippery and ready to absorb that fantastic sauce.
Final Thoughts
Give Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles a try and see just how easily you can whip up a restaurant-worthy dinner in your own kitchen. It’s fast, loaded with flavor, and honestly just plain fun to eat. Whether for a busy weeknight or a relaxed gathering with friends, this dish is bound to become your new go-to favorite!
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Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that comes together quickly. Tender noodles are tossed with a savory and slightly sweet sauce, along with perfectly seasoned ground beef. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces lo mein or spaghetti noodles
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- sesame seeds, for garnish
Noodles:
Beef:
Sauce:
Garnish:
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Beef: In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
- Make Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch slurry. Pour into skillet, simmer until thickened.
- Combine: Add cooked noodles to the skillet, toss to combine. Stir in red pepper flakes. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snow peas for extra veggies.
- Leftovers are great for meal prep and reheat well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
