If you’re craving a weeknight dinner that’s fast, full of flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy even the hungriest crowd, Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are the answer. This dish brings together tender noodles, savory ground beef, and a glossy, sweet-and-salty Mongolian-inspired sauce that soaks into every bite. It’s the kind of comfort food that tastes like it took hours, but really comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re new to Asian-inspired cooking or a seasoned noodle lover, Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is in its simplicity: every ingredient is easy to find, but each one plays a key part in building those bold, crave-worthy flavors. Here’s what you’ll need (and why you’ll love it):
- Lo mein noodles or spaghetti (12 oz): These act as the hearty base, perfect for catching all the delicious sauce; spaghetti works great if you don’t have lo mein on hand.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a nutty aroma and authentic depth to the noodles and beef.
- Lean ground beef (1 pound): The main protein, rich and satisfying, soaks up all the Mongolian flavors.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): Infuses every bite with a punch of irresistible, savory aroma.
- Fresh ginger, grated (1 teaspoon): Lends zing and brightness, balancing the sweet and salty notes.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (¼ cup): Provides that essential umami and saltiness without overpowering the dish.
- Hoisin sauce (¼ cup): Sweet, salty, and a little tangy, this gives the sauce its signature Mongolian flavor.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle sweetness that caramelizes beautifully with the other sauces.
- Cornstarch mixed with water (2 teaspoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water): Thickens the sauce so it clings to every noodle.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): For those who enjoy a hint of heat, this adds a gentle kick.
- Green onions, sliced (4): Brings freshness and a mild onion bite to finish the dish.
- Shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell pepper (1 cup, optional): Adds crunch and color; feel free to use either or both.
- Sesame seeds, for garnish: A sprinkle on top brings a pleasant crunch and a finishing touch.
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling your noodles according to the package instructions. Whether you’re using lo mein or spaghetti, cook them until just tender, then drain and set aside. This gives you the perfect, slightly chewy base for your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks. You want it browned all over with those tasty little crispy bits—drain off any excess grease if needed to keep the dish light.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
Once your beef is browned, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir constantly for about one to two minutes, just until the kitchen smells amazing and everything is fragrant. This step is key to infusing the beef with bold, aromatic flavor.
Step 4: Make the Mongolian Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and the cornstarch slurry. Pour this luscious sauce over the beef in your skillet, stirring to coat every morsel. Let it simmer for two to three minutes, until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Add your cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them in that velvety sauce. Stir in the green onions and, if you like, some shredded carrots or sliced bell pepper for a burst of color and crunch. Let everything mingle on the heat for another minute or two, just until warmed through. Your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are ready to enjoy hot from the stove!
How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Garnishes
For that restaurant-style finish, shower your noodles with a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds and extra green onions. This adds both visual appeal and a fresh, nutty pop that really brings the dish to life.
Side Dishes
Pair your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles with a simple side of steamed broccoli, sautéed bok choy, or a crisp Asian-inspired cucumber salad. These light, veggie-forward options balance out the rich, savory noodles perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling fancy, serve the noodles in wide bowls with chopsticks for an authentic touch. You can also toss in extra veggies—think snow peas, spinach, or even a handful of bean sprouts—for color and crunch. For meal prep, portion into containers for grab-and-go lunches that reheat beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles taste just as good the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your leftovers, allow the noodles to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months. For best texture, avoid adding fresh garnishes until after reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave individual portions on medium heat, stirring halfway through. You can also rewarm gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles come back to life in just a few minutes!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While lo mein and spaghetti work beautifully, you can use rice noodles, udon, or even ramen. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for your noodle of choice.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not by default, but you have full control over the heat. Add the optional crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick, or leave them out for a milder version suitable for kids and spice-sensitive eaters.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes, Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are just as delicious with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat. This makes the recipe flexible for different dietary needs.
What vegetables can I add?
This dish is a great canvas for extra veggies! Try adding snow peas, baby spinach, broccoli florets, or thinly sliced mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Simply swap in gluten-free tamari for the soy sauce, use a gluten-free hoisin sauce, and choose gluten-free noodles. You’ll still get all the flavor and satisfaction of classic Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles.
Final Thoughts
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are the kind of dish you’ll find yourself craving again and again. With their deeply savory sauce, quick prep, and family-pleasing flavors, they’re a true weeknight hero. Give them a try—you just might discover your new favorite comfort food!
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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 combines tender ground beef with flavorful Asian-inspired sauce and lo mein noodles for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. Easy to prepare and packed with savory, sweet, and spicy notes, it’s perfect for a comforting dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Sauce
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (cornstarch slurry)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Vegetables and Garnishes
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell pepper (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Brown Beef: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch slurry until smooth.
- Combine Beef and Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer. Allow cooking for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss Noodles and Veggies: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat with the sauce. Stir in sliced green onions and optional shredded carrots or bell pepper. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to heat through.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and extra green onions if desired.
Notes
- For extra vegetables, add snow peas, spinach, or broccoli during the final steps.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Leftovers keep well and are perfect for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
