Introduction
Cooking can be a delightful adventure filled with flavors, aromas, and the joy of creating something special for those you love. If you’re looking for a comforting meal that comes together quickly and easily, you’ve landed in the right place. The savory blend of garlic and ginger, combined with sweet and salty notes from the sauce, makes for a dish that is sure to please the whole family. One of my go-to meals in times of need is an easy Mongolian ground beef noodles recipe. It’s not only simple but also packed with flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to try this dish. First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick to prepare. On hectic weeknights when time is tight, this meal comes together in about 30 minutes. Ground beef is a popular choice for many home cooks because it’s affordable and cooks quickly.
Another great aspect of this recipe is its versatility. You can use whichever noodles you have on hand—spaghetti, udon, or even rice noodles work just fine. This means you can adapt the recipe based on your pantry staples and personal preferences.
Moreover, the flavors in this dish are deeply satisfying. The sweetness from the brown sugar and the umami taste of the soy sauce combined with the freshness of ginger and garlic create a layer of richness that is simply irresistible. Plus, the additions of green onions and sesame seeds give the dish a lovely crunch, adding texture to every bite.
When you make this easy Mongolian ground beef noodles recipe, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re also creating a warm atmosphere filled with delightful aromas that will make your kitchen feel inviting.
How to Make Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Making this dish is as simple as it is delicious. With just a few fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a feast in no time. Let’s walk through the process together.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) noodles (spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions:
Cook the Noodles
Begin by boiling the noodles according to the package instructions. Different types of noodles might require slightly different cooking times, so keep an eye on them. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Cook the Beef
In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. After the meat is fully cooked, be sure to drain any excess fat before moving on to the next step.
Sauté Aromatics
With the ground beef still in the pan, add the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for about a minute, stirring frequently until both become fragrant. This step adds a wonderful aroma to your dish.
Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, hoisin sauce, and red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. Pour this mixture into the pan with the beef and stir well to combine all the flavors.
Thicken the Sauce
Now it’s time to add the cornstarch slurry you prepared. Stir it into the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. You’ll notice it transforming into a glossy, rich coating for the noodles.
Combine with Noodles
Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce. This is where the magic happens, and the dish comes together beautifully.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top before serving. This final touch adds a burst of color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing.
How to Serve Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Serving this dish is as easy as preparing it. Place generous portions in bowls or on plates, and consider offering extra sesame seeds and green onions on the side so everyone can add more to their liking. Pair it with a light salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
For a special touch, serve with chopsticks or fun placemats to enhance the dining experience. This dish has a casual charm, making it suitable for family dinners or a cozy night in with friends.
How to Store Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Leftovers from this delightful recipe can be stored easily. Once the dish has cooled to room temperature, transfer it into an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the noodles in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to help revive the sauce.
If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the leftovers. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container and label it with the date. It will stay good in the freezer for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above.
Tips to Make Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
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Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor of this dish hinges on the quality of your ingredients. Fresh garlic and ginger make a noticeable difference in taste.
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Adjust Sweetness: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to sweetness. Start with less brown sugar and taste the sauce as you go. You can always add more if needed.
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Beef Variations: While ground beef is the star of this recipe, feel free to swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
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Noodle Options: Experiment with different types of noodles. Each type brings a unique texture that can change the whole experience of the dish.
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Batch Cooking: If you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, double the recipe and store the extra servings for quick lunches or dinners.
Variations
This easy Mongolian ground beef noodles recipe can be customized to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to consider:
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Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein or crumbled tofu. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.
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Add Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli while sautéing the garlic and ginger to boost the nutrition and add color to your plate.
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Dish with Spice: If you enjoy heat, add more red pepper flakes or toss in some sliced jalapeños for extra spice. Alternatively, serve with Sriracha on the side.
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Coconut Milk: For a creamier sauce, mix in a bit of coconut milk when adding the broth. This adds a lovely richness that complements the flavors nicely.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Cook the beef and sauce a day ahead, then mix them with the noodles just before serving for the best texture.
2. Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or even pork can be used. You might also try diced firm tofu for a tasty vegetarian option.
3. What kind of noodles are best?
You can use any noodles you like! Spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles all work well. Choose based on whatever you have on hand or prefer.
Preparing meals at home can build lasting memories and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas. Dive into this easy Mongolian ground beef noodles recipe and enjoy the delicious flavors while creating a treasured moment around the dinner table. Your family will thank you for it!
Print
Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Description
A quick and delicious recipe for Mongolian ground beef noodles, blending savory garlic, ginger, and a sweet soy sauce.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) noodles (spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by boiling the noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking apart with a spatula.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, hoisin sauce, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture into the pan and stir well.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Mix in the cooked noodles, tossing until well coated with the sauce.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
