Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles: A Quick & Easy Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time, then you’re in for a treat with this recipe! Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles: A Quick & Easy Recipe is one of my go-to weeknight dishes. It’s packed with flavor, and the combination of glazed ground beef and tender noodles makes it an instant family favorite. Plus, you can add your favorite veggies to make it even more wholesome!

This dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The savory glaze on the beef combined with noodles creates a comforting meal everyone will enjoy.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or make alterations based on what you have on hand!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love noodles, and they’ll appreciate this fun twist on a classic dish.
• Leftovers are Delicious: This recipe stores well, so you’ll have tasty leftovers for lunch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon Ginger, freshly grated
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
• 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup Water

For the Dish

• 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (for cooking)
• 1 lb Lo Mein Noodles (or spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine as substitutes)
• Water for boiling
• 1 teaspoon Salt (for boiling water)

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon Hoisin Sauce
• 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
• 1/2 teaspoon Ginger, freshly grated
• 1 clove Garlic, minced

For the Vegetables

• 1 Bell Pepper (any color), thinly sliced
• 1 Onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup Broccoli florets
• 1 cup Shredded Carrots

For Garnish

• 2 Green Onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame Seeds (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on your tastes or what’s in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Throw in snap peas or mushrooms for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute with gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.

How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles: A Quick & Easy Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and water. It’s important to ensure that the cornstarch is fully dissolved; this will help thicken your sauce later!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook while breaking it up with a spoon until browned. This step is crucial because browning adds depth of flavor and richness to your dish.

Step 3: Add the Marinade

Pour the marinade over the browned beef and stir well to coat everything evenly. Bring it to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the beef beautifully.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Give your beef a taste! If you want more sweetness, add a bit more brown sugar; if you prefer heat, toss in some extra red pepper flakes. It’s all about making it just right for your palate!

Step 5: Boil the Water

While your beef simmers away happily, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Don’t forget to add salt; this enhances the flavor of your noodles as they cook.

Step 6: Cook the Noodles

Add lo mein noodles to the boiling water and cook according to package directions—usually about 5-7 minutes until they reach that perfect al dente texture.

Step 7: Drain and Rinse

Once cooked, drain those lovely noodles immediately in a colander. Give them a rinse with cold water to stop further cooking—this keeps them from becoming mushy!

Step 8: Toss with a Little Oil (Optional)

If you’re not using them right away, toss those noodles with a little sesame oil or vegetable oil to keep them from sticking together.

Step 9: Prepare the Sauce (If Not Already Combined in Beef Marinade)

In case you didn’t combine everything earlier in your marinade step, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a small bowl now.

Step 10: Sauté the Vegetables (Optional)

In that same skillet or wok used for beefs goodness—add more vegetable oil if necessary—and sauté bell peppers and onions for about 3-5 minutes until they soften slightly.

Step 11: Add Broccoli and Carrots (Optional)

Stir in broccoli florets and shredded carrots next! Cook them for another couple of minutes until they’re tender-crisp; we want some bite left!

Step 12: Combine with Beef (Optional)

If you’re adding veggies here—which I highly recommend—toss them into that skillet filled with glazed beef! Stir well so everything gets acquainted.

Step 13: Add Noodles

Now it’s time! Fold those perfectly cooked noodles into your skillet full of saucy goodness.

Step 14: Toss to Combine

Gently toss everything together until all those lovely noodles are coated evenly in that rich glaze.

Step 15: Add Sauce (If Using Separately)

If you prepared that sauce separately earlier on but didn’t pour it over yet—now’s your moment! Pour it over everything in the skillet.

Step 16: Heat Through

Cook everything together for another minute or two until heated through—the aromas filling your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 17: Garnish and Serve

Finally! Garnish your masterpiece with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles: A Quick & Easy Recipe

Making this dish can be a breeze, and with a few simple tips, you’ll enhance both the flavor and efficiency of your cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger make a world of difference in flavor. They add a vibrant taste that dried versions simply can’t replicate.
• Don’t Rush the Browning: Allowing the ground beef to brown properly enhances its flavor. This step creates that delicious caramelization that makes a good meal great.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in any veggies you have on hand. Ingredients like snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini can add different textures and flavors to the dish.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with fewer red pepper flakes and gradually increase to suit your taste. You can always add more spice, but it’s harder to take it away once it’s in!
• Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Make a larger batch and store leftovers in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles: A Quick & Easy Recipe

Presentation can elevate even the simplest dishes, and these Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are no exception. A colorful plate will not only look appealing but also enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Sliced Green Onions: Freshly sliced green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall texture.
• Cilantro Leaves: For an extra layer of freshness, consider adding some chopped cilantro leaves if you’re a fan of their unique taste.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Edamame: These little green beans are high in protein and make for a healthy side that complements the flavors of your noodles perfectly.
• Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad with cucumber, rice vinegar, and sesame oil brings a crisp contrast to the savory noodles.
• Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly stir-fried bok choy provides a nutritious green element that’s quick to prepare and pairs beautifully with Asian flavors.
• Miso Soup: This warm soup is comforting and adds an umami punch that balances well with your main dish while keeping the meal light.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with these delicious Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles! Each bite is sure to bring smiles around your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, saving you precious moments during busy weeknights. Here’s how to properly store and enjoy your delicious leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The dish will keep well for up to 3 days.
• For optimal freshness, allow the noodles to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the dish, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• To prevent sticking, consider separating the beef and noodles before freezing.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or microwave on low power until warmed.
• Add a splash of water or additional soy sauce while reheating to keep the noodles moist.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries from fellow cooks.

Can I use other types of meat for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?

Absolutely! While ground beef is recommended for its flavor, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.

How do I adjust the spice level in Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?

To adjust the spice level, simply increase or decrease the amount of red pepper flakes used in the marinade. Start with less and add more if you like it spicier!

What can I serve with Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?

These noodles are a complete meal on their own but pair wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for extra nutrition.

How long does it take to make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?

This quick and easy recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles! This dish is not just quick and easy; it’s also packed with flavors that bring comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and feel free to share your experiences – happy cooking!