Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Meal

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is the go-to dish when you crave something savory, satisfying, and easy to make. With its glossy, sweet-savory sauce and tender noodles, this meal is a total crowd-pleaser. Best of all, you can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or a weekend treat.

Whether you’re feeding your family, prepping a meal for the week, or hosting a casual dinner, Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles delivers flavor with minimal effort. If you love a savory and umami-packed dish with a hint of sweetness, this one is a keeper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe blends quick preparation with bold flavors that make it stand out. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies your cravings for a hearty, comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
  
• Customizable: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli. You can also swap ground beef for chicken, turkey, or tofu for a healthier alternative.
  
• Affordable: Made with simple, everyday ingredients found in your local grocery store.
  
• One-pot meal: This recipe doesn’t require a lot of cleanup, as the beef and noodles cook together in one skillet.
  
• Packed with flavor: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil creates a deliciously rich sauce that coats the noodles perfectly.

Ingredients

To make this recipe, you will need:

• 1 lb ground beef (you can use lean beef for a less greasy dish or substitute it with ground turkey or chicken)
  
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (use low-sodium if you prefer a lighter option)
  
• 1/3 cup brown sugar (dark or light, both work well)
  
• 2 tsp cornstarch (this helps thicken the sauce)
  
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (fresh garlic adds the best flavor, but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch)
  
• 8 oz noodles (you can use any type of noodle: rice noodles, egg noodles, or even spaghetti)
  
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (this adds a nutty depth to the dish)
  
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for a touch of acidity to balance the flavors)

Optional toppings:

• Chopped green onions (for freshness and color)
  
• Toasted sesame seeds (adds a slight crunch and flavor)
  
• Chili flakes or sriracha (if you prefer some heat)
  
• Steamed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers (for extra nutrition)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles:

1. Prepare the noodles:

Begin by cooking the noodles in a pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions. Once they are tender, drain them and set aside. You want the noodles to retain some texture so they can absorb the sauce properly.

2. Make the sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and rice vinegar. This will create a sweet-savory sauce that will coat the noodles perfectly. The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy texture.

3. Cook the beef:

Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned and fully cooked, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Combine and simmer:

Once the beef is cooked through, pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the beef is well-coated with the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and coat the beef. The sauce should reduce slightly to become a silky glaze that sticks to the beef.

5. Add the noodles:

Finally, stir in the cooked noodles, making sure they are evenly coated with the sauce. You may need to toss the noodles gently to help them absorb all the flavors from the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the noodles to fully soak up the sauce.

6. Garnish and serve:

Serve your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles in bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a dash of sriracha for some added flavor. The green onions bring a fresh, zesty kick, while the sesame seeds add a bit of crunch.

Tips for Success

• Use lean beef: For a less greasy dish, choose lean ground beef. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner meat option. This ensures the dish doesn’t become too oily and allows the flavors to shine through.
  
• Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick. This will elevate the flavors and bring an extra level of heat. For a milder version, skip the chili and focus on the savory-sweet profile of the dish.
  
• Add vegetables: Feel free to toss in some veggies such as broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots. This not only adds more nutrition but also enhances the texture of the dish. Vegetables like mushrooms also work really well, as they soak up the sauce beautifully.
  
• Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic gives a much better flavor than garlic powder. If you want to take it up a notch, you can even add some ginger for a warm, aromatic note. This adds a layer of depth to the dish that complements the savory sauce.
  
• Rice noodles or egg noodles?: This recipe is incredibly versatile. While traditional Mongolian noodles are often made with egg noodles, you can also use rice noodles or spaghetti if you’re in a pinch. Rice noodles add a chewy texture, while egg noodles provide a silky, smooth finish.

Why This Recipe Is a Family Favorite

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles checks all the boxes: it’s quick, flavorful, and customizable. Whether you prefer a bit of sweetness or spice, you can adjust the flavor profile to suit your tastes. The balance between savory, sweet, and slightly tangy notes makes this dish both comforting and exciting.

This meal is perfect for a family dinner or a meal prep option that will last for several days. You can easily double the recipe for larger families or guests. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, making cleanup a breeze.

Enjoy your delicious Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad to round out the meal. You can even pair it with a crisp cucumber salad or a tangy coleslaw for some extra crunch.