These Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are quick to make and super tasty! With savory ground beef and perfectly cooked noodles, this dish is both hearty and comforting.
I love how everything cooks in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, who can resist that blend of sweet and salty flavors? It’s a winner for dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, providing rich flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work well. For a vegetarian twist, consider using crumbled tofu or tempeh.
Noodles: Egg noodles give a nice texture, but feel free to substitute with wide rice noodles or even spaghetti. Just be sure to cook them to al dente for the best results.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger bring a burst of flavor. For quick prep, you can use pre-minced garlic or ginger paste, though fresh is always better when you can manage it.
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce keeps this dish flavorful without being too salty. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. You can also add a splash of coconut aminos for a milder taste.
How Do I Ensure My Noodles Are Perfectly Cooked?
The best way to cook your noodles is to follow the package instructions but keep an eye on the time to prevent them from becoming mushy. Here are some tips:
- Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt for flavor.
- Cook the noodles until they are just al dente, meaning they should still have a slight bite to them.
- Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining. You can use this starchy water to help loosen the sauce if needed.
- Always rinse the noodles under cold water if you’re not adding them directly to a hot sauce to stop the cooking process.
Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ingredients:
- 8 oz ground beef
- 8 oz egg noodles (or any wide noodles)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 15 minutes of prep time and about 15-20 minutes of cooking time, making the total time around 35 minutes. It’s a quick and fulfilling meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes around 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside. It’s essential not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook a bit in the skillet later.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the pan, carefully drain it off.
3. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger to the cooked beef. Sauté them together for about 1 minute until you smell the wonderful fragrance. This step adds a great depth of flavor to the dish!
4. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the low sodium soy sauce, water, and brown sugar together until the sugar is fully dissolved. This will create a sweet and savory sauce that pairs beautifully with the beef and noodles.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the sauce mixture over the seasoned beef in the skillet. If you’d like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes at this point. Stir well to combine everything and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Toss in the Noodles:
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Gently toss them with the beef and sauce mixture until the noodles are well coated and heated through. This step will take about 2-3 minutes.
7. Finish and Serve:
Take a taste of the noodles and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Once satisfied, remove the skillet from the heat. Finally, garnish the dish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your easy Mongolian ground beef noodles!
FAQ for Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can easily substitute with wide rice noodles, ramen, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions for the best results!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of sriracha or chili sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also top the finished dish with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Meal in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the ground beef and prepare the sauce a day ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, heat the mixture, cook the noodles, and combine them before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional soy sauce if needed to prevent drying out.
