Name: Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 8 oz (225g) noodles (spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles); 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, minced; ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); ¼ cup brown sugar; ½ cup beef broth; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water); ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); ½ cup green onions, chopped; 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Cooking has a way of bringing people together, and this Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is the perfect example. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation process, it’s a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed family dinner. The combination of savory beef and a sweet soy sauce glaze over comforting noodles makes it a delightful and satisfying meal that everyone will love. As someone who often turns to this dish for a quick yet impressive dinner, I can confidently say it’s become a staple in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Making It

This Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe stands out for a few key reasons. First, it’s incredibly fast to prepare—ideal for those after-work rush hours when you’re short on time but still want something delicious. Plus, it involves budget-friendly ingredients that most people already have in their pantry.

But what really sets this recipe apart is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your family’s taste by adjusting the heat with some red pepper flakes or adding in a colorful mix of vegetables. Whether you’re catering to picky eaters or adventurous palates, this dish accommodates them all with ease.

"Absolutely delicious and so easy to make! My kids couldn’t get enough of the noodles and beef. This will definitely be part of our regular dinner rotations!" – Happy Cook

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Let’s get right into the heart of the matter! Making Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a straightforward process with just a few simple steps. Start by boiling your noodles; while they’re cooking, you’ll prepare the flavorful beef and sauce. Once everything is ready, the assembly is quick, making this meal come together in under 30 minutes. Here’s how it all goes down:

Cook your noodles
Brown the ground beef
Sauté the aromatics
Mix the sauce
Combine everything and serve

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you begin, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

8 oz (225g) noodles (spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles)
1 lb (450g) ground beef
2 tbsp vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, minced
¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
¼ cup brown sugar
½ cup beef broth
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup green onions, chopped
1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Feel free to swap out the noodles or ground beef for your favorite varieties, such as turkey or chicken.

Step-by-Step Directions

Now let’s break it down into easily digestible steps:

Cook the Noodles: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set them aside.
Cook the Beef: In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté Aromatics: Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, giving them about a minute to become fragrant.
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, hoisin sauce, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture into the beef and stir well.
Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry to the pan, mixing it in. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens.
Combine with Noodles: Add the drained noodles to the beef and sauce, tossing everything until the noodles are well-coated.
Garnish and Serve: Top off your dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Best Way to Serve

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing these noodles with steamed vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad. A side of spring rolls can add that extra flair too! For a cozy touch, serve them in individual bowls, allowing everyone to customize their garnishes. A drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds can add a delightful crunch.

Storage Tips

Planning to enjoy leftovers? Store your Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to do so in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth to loosen the sauce. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just remember to separate it into single-serving portions!

Expert Advice

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor—especially the garlic and ginger, as they add a lot to the dish.
If you want to make it healthier, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas during the sautéing step.
Always taste the sauce before mixing it with the noodles; you can adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your liking!

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Try these variations to keep your dish exciting:

Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or tofu.
Extra Veggies: Toss in broccoli, carrots, or peas during the cooking process for added nutrition.

Your Questions Answered

What’s the prep time for this dish?

The total prep and cooking time is around 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian alternative can work wonderfully.

How do I store leftovers safely?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.

This Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is not only delicious but also adaptable, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this dish, knowing it’s easy enough to whip up on a busy evening!