Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are a tasty and quick meal that mixes savory ground beef with soft noodles. Toss in some veggies for extra crunch and color!
This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying. I love adding a sprinkle of green onions on top—it’s my secret touch that makes it even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: You can use egg noodles or ramen, both work great. If you’re in a pinch, spaghetti or rice noodles can also be fun substitutes.
Ground Beef: I usually stick to 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. Ground turkey or chicken will lighten the dish, while plant-based meat can be a good alternative for a vegetarian option.
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger add a lot of flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-minced versions work fine, but fresh is always my go-to for the best taste!
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce is the classic choice. For a gluten-free option, try tamari. If you’re watching sodium, low-sodium soy sauce is available too.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and balances the soy sauce. You can use honey or agave syrup for a different twist, but remember to adjust the amount as they’re sweeter than brown sugar.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Noodles?
Cooking noodles seems simple, but getting them just right is key. Follow these tips for perfect noodles:
- Use plenty of water to avoid sticking; at least 4-6 quarts for 8 oz of noodles.
- Salt your water generously to flavor the noodles as they cook.
- Cook noodles according to package instructions but check for al dente texture; it should be firm to the bite since they’ll cook more later in the dish.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process – this helps prevent them from getting mushy!
By following these tips, you’ll ensure your noodles are a delightful addition to your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles!
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz. noodles (egg noodles or ramen)
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add your noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. When they’re done, drain them and set them aside. This is what makes your dish hearty and filling!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Grab a large skillet or wok and heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef into the pan and cook it until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks.
3. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook everything together for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic and ginger are fragrant. This adds a wonderful flavor to your beef!
4. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Pour this delicious sauce over the cooked beef and stir well to combine. Everything should start smelling amazing!
5. Combine Noodles and Beef:
Now it’s time to add the cooked noodles into the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss everything together gently so that the noodles are coated in the sauce. You want every strand of noodle to have that tasty flavor!
6. Add Green Onions:
Stir in the freshly chopped green onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and perfectly combined. This adds a nice crunch and freshness to your dish!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles hot. Don’t forget to sprinkle sesame seeds on top and add extra green onions for garnish if you like. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef for Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as leaner meats like turkey may cook faster than ground beef.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even a splash of sriracha or chili oil to the sauce. Start with a little and increase to your preference to avoid overpowering the dish!
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Yes, feel free to mix the sauce ingredients together and store it in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to make the dish, just cook the beef and add the prepped sauce for a quick dinner option!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the noodles moist.
