Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef

Introduction

Looking for a fast, delicious dinner idea that’s packed with flavor? These Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef are a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something comforting and savory. Inspired by the classic Mongolian beef flavors, this dish combines ground beef, tender noodles, and a rich, sweet-savory sauce that comes together in under 30 minutes.

This meal is as satisfying as it is versatile. The ground beef adds heartiness and pairs perfectly with a sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger—giving it the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors. Plus, the noodles soak up every bit of the sauce, making each bite flavorful and delicious. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables, or even add a bit of spice if you like.

Perfect for quick dinners, easy meal prep, or even leftovers, Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef will soon become a family favorite. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Ingredients Needed

To make this flavorful Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef dish, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

For the Noodles and Beef

Noodles (8 oz): Lo mein, spaghetti, or rice noodles work well for this recipe. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until just tender, then drain and set aside.
Ground Beef (1 lb): Lean ground beef is ideal, as it brings great flavor without being overly greasy. Substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred.

For the Mongolian Sauce

Soy Sauce (½ cup): Adds savory flavor to the sauce. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you want to control the saltiness.
Brown Sugar (⅓ cup): Adds sweetness to balance the savory elements. Dark brown sugar will give a deeper, richer flavor, but light brown sugar works well too.
Hoisin Sauce (2 tbsp): Gives a slightly sweet, tangy taste that deepens the flavor profile of the sauce. If you don’t have hoisin, you can substitute with oyster sauce or an additional tablespoon of soy sauce.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic provides depth and an aromatic element.
Ginger (1 tbsp, minced or grated): Adds warmth and a slight spiciness. Fresh ginger is best, but ground ginger can be used if necessary (use ¼ tsp ground ginger).
Cornstarch (1 tbsp) mixed with 2 tbsp water: This slurry helps thicken the sauce, so it coats the noodles perfectly.

Optional Add-Ins and Garnishes

Green Onions (2-3, sliced): Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Red Pepper Flakes or Sriracha: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha to taste.
Vegetables: Bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or carrots are great options for adding nutrition and color. Add about 1 cup of vegetables of your choice, sliced thinly for easy cooking.

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious, quick, and satisfying meal. Next, let’s go over some key tips to ensure your Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef turn out perfectly every time!

Key Tips for Making Perfect Mongolian Noodles

Making the perfect Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef comes down to a few simple techniques and ingredient choices. Here are some key tips to ensure that your noodles are flavorful, well-balanced, and have a delicious texture.

1. Choose the Right Noodles

Why: Different noodles bring different textures to the dish. Lo mein noodles are chewy and great for absorbing sauce, while rice noodles are light and gluten-free. Spaghetti is a good, affordable option that works surprisingly well in Asian-style dishes.
Tip: Cook the noodles until just tender, or even slightly underdone, as they’ll continue cooking when mixed with the sauce. This prevents the noodles from becoming too soft or mushy.

2. Brown the Ground Beef for Extra Flavor

Why: Browning the ground beef well adds depth and richness to the dish, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
Tip: Cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Let it brown without stirring too frequently, allowing the meat to develop a caramelized crust before adding garlic and ginger.

3. Balance the Sweet and Savory in the Sauce

Why: The classic Mongolian flavor profile combines sweetness and saltiness. Adjusting these flavors will ensure the dish is neither too sweet nor too salty.
Tip: Taste the sauce before adding it to the noodles. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the brown sugar slightly. You can also add a splash of rice vinegar or a few drops of lemon juice if you want a hint of acidity to balance the flavors.

4. Add Vegetables for Texture and Color

Why: Adding vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots not only makes the dish more colorful but also adds crunch and nutrition.
Tip: If using vegetables, slice them thinly and cook them until just tender-crisp. This keeps them from becoming overly soft while still blending well with the noodles and sauce.

5. Thicken the Sauce with Cornstarch

Why: A cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) helps thicken the sauce, so it clings to the noodles and coats everything evenly.
Tip: Add the cornstarch slurry slowly, stirring constantly. The sauce will thicken as it cooks, so you may not need the full amount—stop when it reaches your desired consistency.

These tips will help you make Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef that are perfectly seasoned, well-textured, and packed with flavor every time.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and satisfying Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef dish in under 30 minutes!

Cook the Noodles

Cook the Noodles: Begin by cooking 8 oz of noodles (lo mein, spaghetti, or rice noodles) according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. Be careful not to overcook; noodles should be just tender, as they’ll cook a bit more in the sauce.

Prepare the Sauce

Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup soy sauce, ⅓ cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp hoisin sauce, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp minced or grated ginger.
Thicken the Sauce: In another small bowl, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to create a slurry. Set this aside—it will be added later to thicken the sauce.

Cook the Ground Beef

Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
Add Garlic and Ginger: If there’s excess grease, drain it from the pan. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger to the browned beef, stirring for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the Sauce

Combine the Sauce with Beef: Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked ground beef, stirring to coat the beef evenly.
Thicken the Sauce: Slowly add the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly. The sauce will thicken as it heats. If it gets too thick, add a splash of water or beef broth to adjust the consistency.

Add the Noodles and Optional Vegetables

Add the Noodles: Gently toss the cooked noodles in the skillet with the beef and sauce, making sure everything is well coated.
Add Vegetables (Optional): If using vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots, add them now. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp but still vibrant.

Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste and Adjust: Taste the noodles and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a bit of soy sauce for extra saltiness, or a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha if you’d like some heat.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer the noodles to plates or bowls, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Serve your Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef hot, and enjoy the bold, savory flavors of this quick and easy dish!

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

One of the best things about this Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily tailor it to your taste by adding vegetables, adjusting the spice level, or even swapping out the protein. Here are some delicious variations to try:

1. Add Vegetables for Color and Crunch

Bell Peppers: Sliced red, yellow, or green bell peppers add a sweet, crisp texture and vibrant color.
Snap Peas or Snow Peas: These add a fresh crunch and pair well with the savory sauce.
Broccoli or Carrots: Add about 1 cup of broccoli florets or sliced carrots to the pan for added nutrition. Cook until tender-crisp to maintain their color and texture.

2. Spice It Up

Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in ¼ to ½ tsp red pepper flakes with the sauce for a hint of heat.
Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce: For a bolder kick, add a drizzle of Sriracha or a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also serve extra Sriracha on the side for those who like it spicy.

3. Swap the Protein

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version. Both options pair well with the Mongolian-style sauce.
Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use cubed or crumbled tofu instead of meat. Press the tofu first to remove excess moisture, then pan-fry until golden before adding it to the sauce.
Shrimp: For a seafood twist, use peeled, deveined shrimp in place of ground beef. Sauté the shrimp until pink, then add the sauce and noodles as usual.

4. Try Different Noodles

Rice Noodles: For a gluten-free version, use rice noodles or rice vermicelli. Cook according to package instructions and toss in with the sauce.
Zucchini Noodles or Spaghetti Squash: For a low-carb option, use spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash in place of traditional noodles. Toss them lightly in the sauce to coat without overcooking.

5. Make It Sweeter or Less Sweet

Adjust the Brown Sugar: Mongolian dishes often have a sweet element, but you can easily adjust the amount to your liking. For a less sweet sauce, reduce the brown sugar by half. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or a splash of honey.

These add-ins and variations make it easy to customize your Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef to suit any palate, whether you’re craving something spicy, colorful, or lighter. Experiment with your favorite flavors and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions

These Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef are packed with flavor and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a few simple sides to make the meal even more balanced and delicious. Here are some ideas for serving this dish:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs and Toppings

Green Onions: Top the noodles with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds to add a subtle nuttiness and an extra layer of texture.
Cilantro: For a hint of freshness, add chopped cilantro on top just before serving. It complements the savory flavors of the dish beautifully.

2. Pair with a Light Side Dish

Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas to add color and nutrition.
Asian-Style Salad: A side salad with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light sesame dressing adds a crunchy, refreshing contrast to the noodles.
Jasmine or Brown Rice: If you want to make the meal more filling, serve the noodles alongside a small portion of jasmine or brown rice. The rice will soak up any extra sauce, making every bite flavorful.

3. Serve with a Soup Starter

Miso Soup: A simple bowl of miso soup makes a great light starter that complements the flavors of the noodles.
Egg Drop Soup: A comforting, savory egg drop soup pairs well with this dish and adds a touch of warmth.

4. Add a Spicy Condiment on the Side

Sriracha: Serve Sriracha on the side for a bit of customizable heat.
Chili Oil: For those who enjoy spice, a drizzle of chili oil can add a rich, smoky flavor to the noodles.
Kimchi: For a tangy, spicy twist, serve a small side of kimchi. Its bold flavors add a nice contrast to the sweet-savory profile of the Mongolian sauce.

These serving suggestions help round out the meal, offering a balance of flavors and textures that make this Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef dish even more satisfying and enjoyable.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef are excellent for meal prep and make delicious leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat them to maintain the best taste and texture.

Refrigerator Storage

How to Store: Allow the noodles to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator.
Shelf Life: Stored in the fridge, these noodles will keep fresh for up to 3-4 days. This makes them a great option for meal prepping lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Freezer Storage

How to Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the noodles. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, pressing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Shelf Life: The noodles will stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
Thawing Instructions: When ready to eat, thaw the noodles in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as described below.

Reheating Instructions

Stovetop Method: For the best texture, reheat the noodles on the stovetop. Add the noodles to a skillet with a splash of water or beef broth to help rehydrate them. Stir over medium heat until heated through.
Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, place a portion of noodles in a microwave-safe container. Add a splash of water or broth, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
Avoid Overheating: Overheating can cause the noodles to become too soft or mushy. Heat just until warm to maintain the best texture.

Tips for Reviving the Flavor

Add Extra Sauce: If the noodles seem dry after reheating, you can revive the flavor by adding a bit more soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or a drizzle of sesame oil. This will freshen up the flavors and ensure every bite is tasty.
Garnish Again: To make the leftovers feel fresh, add a sprinkle of green onions, sesame seeds, or a dash of red pepper flakes before serving.

These storage and reheating tips will help you enjoy Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef even after a few days, making them a great option for easy, flavorful meals anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Answer: Yes, Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to 3-4 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just follow the reheating instructions to enjoy it warm without losing texture.

2. What noodles work best for this recipe?

Answer: Lo mein noodles, rice noodles, or spaghetti work well. Lo mein and spaghetti provide a chewy texture that holds up well to the sauce, while rice noodles offer a gluten-free alternative with a lighter texture.

3. How can I make the sauce less sweet?

Answer: To reduce the sweetness, start by using 2 tablespoons of brown sugar instead of ⅓ cup. You can always adjust the sweetness at the end by tasting and adding a bit more if needed.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Answer: Yes! To make it gluten-free, use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta and replace the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. Double-check that your hoisin sauce is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.

5. What vegetables can I add to this dish?

Answer: Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and zucchini are all great choices for adding color, flavor, and nutrition. Simply slice them thinly and stir-fry until tender-crisp before mixing with the noodles and sauce.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

Answer: To add heat, mix in red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or chili garlic sauce to taste. You can also serve extra Sriracha or chili oil on the side, allowing each person to customize the spice level.

These FAQs provide helpful answers and additional tips to ensure your Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef turn out perfectly every time. With this guidance, you’ll be able to customize the dish to your taste and enjoy it as a quick, satisfying meal.

Conclusion

This recipe for Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef is a fantastic go-to for weeknight dinners or whenever you’re craving something quick, flavorful, and comforting. With a savory sauce, tender noodles, and perfectly seasoned ground beef, this dish brings the essence of Mongolian-inspired flavors to your kitchen with minimal effort.

The versatility of the recipe makes it easy to customize: add your favorite vegetables, adjust the spice level, or even swap the ground beef for another protein. It’s a meal that’s both satisfying and adaptable, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

So next time you’re looking for a budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing meal, give these Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef a try. Feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients, and don’t forget to add a touch of heat if you’re a fan of spice. Enjoy this dish with a side of steamed veggies, or simply garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for a finishing touch. Happy cooking!