Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe

There's something undeniably comforting about a big bowl of Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles. The combination of savory, slightly sweet beef, tender noodles, and a rich, garlicky sauce makes this dish a go-to favorite for busy weeknights. The best part? It all comes together in under 30 minutes with simple pantry staples.

this Recipe

I first made this dish on a night when I had very little time and even less energy. I needed something quick, hearty, and packed with flavor. After experimenting with a few ingredients, I landed on this easy version of Mongolian beef, using ground beef instead of steak. It was an instant hit, and now it's a regular in our meal rotation!

Why You'll Love This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this flavorful and satisfying dish. Not only is it absolutely delicious, but it's also one of the easiest meals you'll ever make!

First, this recipe is quick and easy. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have dinner on the table in about 25 minutes. Perfect for those busy nights when you need a no-fuss meal.

It's also budget-friendly. Ground beef is much more affordable than traditional Mongolian beef cuts like flank steak, making this dish an economical yet equally tasty alternative.

Plus, it's family-friendly. The combination of tender noodles and a slightly sweet, savory sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters.

Best of all, it's versatile. You can easily swap out the protein or add extra veggies to make it your own. It’s a great way to clean out the fridge while still enjoying a satisfying meal!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Ground beef is the star of this dish. It cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce. I recommend using lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to avoid excess grease, but any variety works.

Soy sauce provides the rich umami base for the sauce. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer to control the salt level, or opt for tamari if you need a gluten-free option.

Brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness that balances the salty and savory elements. You can adjust the amount to suit your preference, or use honey for a natural alternative.

Garlic and ginger are key for that classic Mongolian flavor. Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger will give you the best taste, but pre-minced versions work in a pinch.

Noodles bring the whole dish together. I love using lo mein or spaghetti, but rice noodles or even fettuccine work just as well. Cook them until just tender so they don’t get mushy.

No special equipment is needed—just a large skillet or wok and a pot for boiling noodles!

How To Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

Making this dish is a breeze, and you'll have a steaming bowl of delicious noodles in no time.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set them aside.

While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Next, stir in the garlic and ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let them burn. This step infuses the beef with amazing flavor.

Now, it’s time to make the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of water. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the beef and stir well. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld together.

Finally, add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated in the rich, savory sauce. Let them heat through for another minute before serving.

In less than 30 minutes, you have a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality meal that tastes even better than takeout!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, they store beautifully for another meal.

For refrigeration, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making the dish even tastier the next day.

For freezing, place the cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the noodles in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the flavors. You can also microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how easily it can be customized!

For a healthier version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You’ll get the same delicious flavors with a leaner protein.

If you're craving extra veggies, toss in some bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots when cooking the beef. They’ll add a nice crunch and extra nutrients.

Want to make it spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle in some sriracha for a little heat.

For a low-carb option, serve the beef and sauce over spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice instead of traditional noodles.

Experiment with different ingredients to make this dish uniquely yours. No matter how you tweak it, you’re in for a satisfying and delicious meal!

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