Get ready to fall in love with Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles, a weeknight dinner that checks every box: bold flavor, easy prep, and cozy comfort. This quick stir fry combines tender noodles, sizzling ground beef, and a rich, savory-sweet sauce that tastes like it came straight from your favorite takeout spot. The aromatic mix of garlic and ginger creates a foundation for craveable flavor, while soy sauce and brown sugar deliver that irresistible Mongolian flair. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you’ll cherish this reliable, crave-worthy meal that brings everyone running to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles plays a starring role, coming together to create a dish that is vibrant, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. These simple pantry staples are transformed into something magical, so let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component matters!
- Lo mein noodles or spaghetti (12 ounces): These form the deliciously chewy base that soaks up all the savory sauce – either noodle works beautifully depending on what you have on hand.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a distinctive, nutty aroma and deepens the overall flavor of the dish.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The heart of this recipe, bringing protein and that comforting, hearty feel to every bite.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): Provides punchy, aromatic flavor that’s both bold and welcoming.
- Ginger, grated (1 tablespoon): Adds brightness and zing, balancing the sweetness and savoriness of the sauce.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/2 cup): The umami-packed backbone of the sauce – low-sodium keeps things from being too salty.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Contributes a touch of caramelized sweetness that’s iconic in Mongolian-inspired dishes.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds depth, body, and just a hint of tang, elevating the final flavor.
- Cornstarch mixed with water (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water): This “slurry” thickens the sauce just enough to cling perfectly to the noodles.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle kick of heat, but totally optional if you prefer it mild.
- Green onions, sliced (4): Fresh and crisp, they add color and a pop of flavor at the very end.
- Sesame seeds (for garnish): A final sprinkle for both visual appeal and a tiny bit of crunch!
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and adding your lo mein noodles or spaghetti. Cook them according to the package instructions until they’re just al dente, as they’ll be finished in the sauce later. Once done, drain and set them aside—you’ll want them ready to toss right into the skillet!
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat your sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. You’re aiming for beautifully browned, little crumbles of beef that are fully cooked through, which takes about 6 to 8 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, go ahead and drain the excess for a cleaner sauce.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
With the beef browned, it’s time for the aromatics! Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for a minute until fragrant. This is a small step with massive payoff—the kitchen will smell amazing as those flavors bloom.
Step 4: Create the Mongolian Sauce
Time for the flavor bomb: mix in the soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. The brown sugar will melt into the soy sauce, building that glossy, sweet-savory signature Mongolian sauce base.
Step 5: Thicken and Toss
Whisk together your cornstarch and water, then pour into the skillet, stirring as the sauce thickens slightly (this happens fast!). Toss the cooked noodles directly into the pan, lifting and stirring to coat every strand generously with the rich sauce. Let everything cook together for another minute or two so the flavors can meld.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle in the sliced green onions. Give it all a final toss, then portion the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles into bowls, finishing each with a generous shower of sesame seeds. Serve hot and dig in!
How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Garnishes
The right garnish takes these noodles from good to extraordinary. A fresh scattering of sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add visual contrast and bright, crunchy freshness. For even more flair, try a few thinly sliced chili peppers or a squeeze of fresh lime if you love a hint of zing.
Side Dishes
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles shine as a main, but pairing them with simple sides makes dinner feel truly complete. Steamed or roasted bok choy, crisp snap peas, or a fresh cucumber salad all provide a delightful textural contrast. Some homemade spring rolls or egg drop soup wouldn’t go amiss if you feel like treating yourself to a real feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Entertain a crowd by serving these noodles family-style in a big platter topped with an array of garnishes, letting everyone build their perfect bowl. For lunchboxes or meal prep, portion into airtight containers with a side of steamed broccoli or snow peas. Hosting a party? Twirl them into cute noodle nests on a platter, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and run a few sliced scallions over the top—visual magic and so delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles? Lucky you! Let them cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles soak up more flavor by day two, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, cool the noodles completely before freezing them in freezer-safe containers or bags. They’ll keep well for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge so the texture stays as close to fresh as possible.
Reheating
To reheat, pop leftovers in the microwave for a minute or two with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, or rewarm gently on the stovetop. Stir occasionally to warm evenly and restore the noodles’ lovely texture. Add a dash of soy sauce if you want to revive that just-cooked, saucy shine.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Lo mein noodles and spaghetti are classic options, but rice noodles, udon, or even fettuccine work in Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles. Just follow package instructions and watch the texture—anything that holds sauce well is fair game.
Is this recipe spicy?
By default, the only heat comes from the optional red pepper flakes. Feel free to omit them if you’re sensitive to spice, or add more if you love a little extra tingle.
How can I make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles gluten-free?
Choose gluten-free noodles, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce, and double-check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free. You’ll still get all the craveable flavors!
Can I add vegetables?
Definitely! Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles taste fantastic with bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or shredded carrots added into the skillet along with the beef. Sauté until just tender and proceed as usual for a colorful, fiber-rich twist.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken both make wonderful substitutes and will lighten up the dish. For a vegetarian version, try plant-based ground options or sautéed mushrooms for rich, umami flavor.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you try these Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles soon—they’re such a joyful mash-up of bold flavor and utter simplicity. Whether you need a speedy weeknight meal or something comforting for a quiet night in, this go-to recipe delivers every time. Gather your family or friends, serve up a big bowl, and watch those smiles appear—it really is that good!
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Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Tender lo mein noodles are tossed with savory ground beef in a delicious sauce packed with garlic, ginger, and Asian-inspired seasonings.
Ingredients
Noodles:
- 12 ounces lo mein noodles or spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Ground Beef:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
Sauce:
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Cook noodles according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet, heat sesame oil, add ground beef, cook until browned. Drain excess fat, then add garlic and ginger.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, and red pepper flakes. Simmer, then add cornstarch slurry.
- Combine: Toss cooked noodles in the sauce, cook briefly until heated through. Stir in green onions.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and enjoy hot.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
