This Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles recipe is a delicious fusion of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. With tender noodles coated in a rich, umami-packed sauce, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. It is better than takeout and can be easily customized to suit your taste.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
• Budget-friendly – Uses simple pantry staples
• Customizable – Adjust sweetness, spice, or add vegetables
• Great for meal prep – Stores well for leftovers

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Part 1: Cooking the Dish

Essential Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef – Provides a hearty, protein-packed base
• 10 oz noodles – Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work best
• 4 tsp fresh ginger, minced – Adds warmth and depth
• 6 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the umami flavor

Sauce Ingredients

• ½ cup brown sugar (reduce to ⅓ or ¼ cup for less sweetness)
• ½ cup beef broth – Adds richness to the sauce
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce – Provides savory umami
• 4 tbsp hoisin sauce – A key ingredient for depth of flavor
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Thickening Agent

• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water – Mixed to form a slurry

Garnish

• 4 medium green onions, sliced

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Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles
• In the last two minutes, add minced garlic and ginger and stir well
• Drain any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet

2. Cook the Noodles

• Boil water and cook the noodles according to package instructions
• Do not salt the water, as the sauce is already salty
• Drain and set aside

3. Make the Sauce

• To the cooked beef, add:
  • Soy sauce
  • Beef broth
  • Brown sugar
  • Hoisin sauce
  • Black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes (if using)
• Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer

4. Thicken the Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry
• Pour the slurry into the skillet and stir
• Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened

5. Combine Noodles and Sauce

• Add the drained noodles to the skillet
• Toss until fully coated in the sauce
• Let sit for a few minutes so the noodles absorb the flavors

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with sliced green onions
• Serve hot and enjoy this better-than-takeout meal

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with extra green onions for a fresh crunch
• Pair with a fried egg on top for added richness
• Drizzle with sriracha or chili oil for a spicier kick
• Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra texture

Eight Best Side Dishes

1. Steamed Broccoli

Lightly steamed broccoli adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish. A simple drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds enhances its flavor.

2. Garlic Green Beans

Crisp green beans sautéed with garlic complement the savory sauce of the noodles. They add texture and a mild, earthy taste.

3. Cucumber Salad

A light, refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil adds a cool contrast to the warm, flavorful noodles.

4. Egg Rolls

Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide a satisfying crunch and pair well with the Mongolian sauce.

5. Spicy Asian Slaw

A mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy, slightly spicy dressing enhances the meal with a fresh and zesty bite.

6. Steamed Dumplings

Soft dumplings filled with pork, chicken, or vegetables offer a delicious side that complements the flavors of the dish.

7. Miso Soup

A light miso soup with tofu and seaweed provides a warm and comforting addition that balances the meal.

8. Pickled Vegetables

Quick-pickled carrots, daikon, or cucumbers add acidity and crunch, cutting through the richness of the noodles.

Recipe Tips and Customizations

• Less Sweet – Reduce brown sugar to ⅓ or ¼ cup for a milder sweetness
• More Heat – Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha
• Extra Protein – Include tofu, chicken, or shrimp for variety
• Vegetable Boost – Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas for added texture and nutrients

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days
• Ensure the noodles are fully cooled before storing to prevent condensation

Reheating Instructions

• Skillet Method – Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce
• Microwave Method – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating
• Avoid overcooking to maintain the texture of the noodles

Freezing

• Freezing is not recommended as the noodles may become too soft when reheated

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, replace ground beef with crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

2. What type of noodles work best?

Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well, but lo mein or rice noodles are also great alternatives.

3. How do I make it gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and swap regular noodles for gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Ensure that hoisin sauce is also gluten-free.

4. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, mix all the sauce ingredients and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir well before using.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Popular additions include bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, and snap peas. They can be sautéed with the beef or added separately.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles recipe is an easy, flavorful, and versatile dish that is perfect for busy nights. Whether you prefer it sweet, spicy, or packed with vegetables, it is completely customizable. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.