If you’re craving a dish that brings bold flavors and comforting textures together in perfect harmony, then you absolutely need to try this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe. It’s a quick and easy meal that combines savory ground beef with rich, sweet, and tangy sauces, all tossed up with tender noodles. The fragrance of garlic and ginger, paired with the satisfying bite of noodles, makes every dinner feel like a special occasion. Whether you need a weeknight winner or an impressive dish for friends, this recipe delivers irresistible tastes with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building flavor and texture. From the hearty ground beef to the combination of sauces, these ingredients come together seamlessly to create an iconic taste.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Provides a rich, meaty base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- Noodles (8 oz): Use spaghetti or rice noodles for a chewy, satisfying texture that carries the sauce beautifully.
- Vegetable oil (2 tbsp): Perfect for browning the beef and adding just a touch of richness.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Adds aromatic depth and a little bite.
- Fresh ginger, grated (1 tbsp): Brings a fresh, slightly spicy zing that brightens the dish.
- Soy sauce (1/4 cup): The salty, umami backbone that defines Mongolian flavors.
- Hoisin sauce (2 tbsp): Adds sweetness and complexity with a hint of tang.
- Brown sugar (2 tbsp): Balances savory with sweet for that perfect sauce harmony.
- Water (1/2 cup): Helps create the saucy consistency without overpowering flavors.
- Cornstarch (1 tsp, optional): For thickening your sauce to just the right glossiness.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp, optional): Brings subtle heat if you like your noodles with a kick.
- Green onions, chopped (2): Adds fresh, crisp color and flavor for garnish.
- Sesame seeds: Provides nutty crunch and a beautiful finishing touch.
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by preparing your noodles according to the package instructions. Whether you choose spaghetti or rice noodles, cook them until just tender and then drain well. Setting the noodles aside primes you for quick assembly later, ensuring they don’t overcook and become mushy.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon as it browns evenly. This step unlocks the meat’s savory flavor and sets the stage for that rich, hearty base that holds the dish together.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
Once your beef is fully cooked, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Let them cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. This infusion of aromatics takes the dish from simple to spectacular, giving it that authentic Mongolian signature note.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Sauce
Combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and water in a small bowl. If you like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a bit of water to form a slurry and then add it here. This luscious sauce is what brings all the elements together with a beautiful balance of sweet and savory.
Step 5: Simmer the Beef in Sauce
Pour the sauce over your browned beef and stir to coat everything evenly. Reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes. This simmering step allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to knit together perfectly, elevating every bite.
Step 6: Toss in the Noodles
Add the cooked noodles directly to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are completely coated in that glossy, flavorful sauce. This melding of textures and taste is the heart of this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish your dish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you want a touch of heat. Add chopped green onions and a generous scattering of sesame seeds for a pop of freshness and crunch. Serve the noodles warm, inviting everyone to dig into a bowl packed with vibrant, comforting flair.
How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions and sesame seeds aren’t just for looks—they add texture, color, and fresh flavor contrasts that brighten this rich dish. Red pepper flakes are optional but fantastic if you enjoy a little heat to balance savory sweetness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, which add crunch and fresh, green notes. For a heartier meal, a crisp cucumber salad or pickled veggies can offer a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, saucy noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe in individual bowls topped with a garnish tower of sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an elegant touch. Or pile it onto a large serving platter for a family-style feast where everyone can help themselves to generous portions and sides.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles can be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors may deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal equally delicious and easy to reheat.
Freezing
If you want to save the dish for longer, freeze it in meal-sized portions. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it will keep well for up to 2 months without losing much in flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the noodles gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out, keeping the noodles moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground pork, turkey, or chicken work well too. Each will slightly change the flavor profile, but the sauce ensures the dish remains flavorful and satisfying.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes! Use gluten-free noodles like rice noodles and replace soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to keep the dish gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild by default but adding red pepper flakes gives it a gentle heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your tolerance or omit it entirely for a no-spice version perfect for kids.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
For a plant-based version, swap ground beef for diced tofu, tempeh, or textured vegetable protein (TVP), and choose vegetarian hoisin and soy sauces. The same technique brings bold flavors to non-meat options.
What’s the best noodle to use?
Both spaghetti and rice noodles are great choices for this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe. Spaghetti gives a hearty chew, while rice noodles offer a slightly lighter texture—go with your personal preference!
Final Thoughts
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe truly hits all the right notes—quick to make, bursting with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day, and I can’t wait for you to give it a try in your kitchen. Once you do, it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to meals, especially when you want something fast, flavorful, and downright delicious.
Print
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a quick and flavorful stir-fry dish combining tender ground beef with savory soy and hoisin sauce, garlic, and ginger. Served over perfectly cooked noodles and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this recipe offers a satisfying meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz noodles (spaghetti or rice noodles work well)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
Seasoning & Garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and water. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry and add it to the sauce mixture.
- Combine Sauce and Beef: Pour the sauce over the beef in the skillet, stirring well to coat. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
- Add Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss thoroughly to combine, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and beef mixture.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with optional red pepper flakes, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your flavorful Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles.
Notes
- You can use either spaghetti or rice noodles based on your preference or availability.
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add chili sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, do not skip the cornstarch slurry as it adds a nice glaze.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, but the noodles may absorb more sauce over time.
