Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a quick and delicious dish that combines savory ground beef, tender noodles, and a rich, sweet-savory sauce. Inspired by classic Mongolian beef, this recipe adds a twist with ground beef, making it a budget-friendly and easy weeknight meal. With flavors of garlic, ginger, soy, and brown sugar, it’s a satisfying dish that comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy days or when you’re craving takeout-style comfort food at home.
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Ingredients
For the Beef and Noodles:
- 12 oz noodles (lo mein, spaghetti, or egg noodles work well)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece fresh ginger, minced
- ½ cup carrots, julienned or thinly sliced
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
For the Mongolian Sauce:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for more umami flavor)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Boil the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Cook the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté aromatics: Push the beef to the side of the skillet and add the diced onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Step 3: Make the Mongolian Sauce
- Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce (if using), and cornstarch until smooth.
- Combine with beef: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef and onions, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Noodles
- Add vegetables: Stir in the carrots and cook for another 2 minutes to slightly soften.
- Toss in noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce until fully coated. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the noodles to soak up the sauce.
- Finish with green onions: Stir in the sliced green onions just before serving.
Video
Notes
Baking Tips
- Cook noodles al dente: Since the noodles will cook further when combined with the sauce, make sure to cook them just until al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft.
- Use fresh aromatics: Fresh garlic and ginger are key to getting that bold, authentic Mongolian flavor. Pre-minced versions work, but fresh gives a more vibrant taste.
- Thicken the sauce: The cornstarch in the sauce helps it thicken and coat the noodles well. Make sure to whisk it in completely to avoid any lumps.
- Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
Suggestions for Garnish and Presentation
- Sesame seeds: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds over the noodles for added texture and visual appeal.
- Extra green onions: Garnish with additional sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Chili oil or Sriracha: Drizzle with a bit of chili oil or Sriracha for those who like a spicy kick.
- Cilantro: For a fresh, herbaceous touch, add a handful of chopped cilantro over the dish.
Conclusion
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that will have your family asking for seconds. It’s quick and easy to make, packed with tender beef, flavorful sauce, and satisfying noodles. You can customize the vegetables and adjust the heat level to suit your preferences, making it a versatile dish that works for any occasion. Serve it with your favorite garnishes and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that feels like takeout—but better!
