Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are a tasty mix of juicy beef and soft noodles, all tossed in a yummy sauce. This dish is quick to make and perfect for a cozy dinner!
It’s fun to whip up and super filling! I love how easy it is to make a big batch for friends or family. Plus, who can resist slurping up those noodles? 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These are perfect for this dish, but feel free to swap them out for rice noodles, spaghetti, or even whole wheat noodles if you’re looking for a healthier option.
Ground Beef: While ground beef gives great flavor, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meat. If you want a vegetarian version, consider tofu or tempeh as alternatives.
Soy Sauce: This brings a lot of savory flavor. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. You can also try tamari for a gluten-free option.
Oyster Sauce: Adds a rich umami taste. If you can’t find it, hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of sugar can work in a pinch.
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh is best for flavor, but you can substitute with powdered forms in smaller amounts. I always enjoy using fresh for that punchy taste!
How Can I Ensure My Ground Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef might seem easy, but a few tips can make it better. Start with a hot pan to get a nice sear and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet or wok before adding the oil.
- When the oil is shimmering, add the ground beef and don’t stir right away. Let it brown for a couple of minutes.
- Use a spatula to break up the meat while it cooks. This helps it brown evenly.
- Cook until it’s fully brown and no longer pink.
This way, you’ll lock in flavors and keep your beef tender, making every bite delicious!
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz egg noodles (or any preferred noodle)
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced or grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Vegetable oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, making a total of 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick to make and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions. When they are done, drain them in a colander and set aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat a splash of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
After the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté them for around 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re fragrant and golden. This adds a wonderful flavor!
4. Make the Sauce:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the brown sugar is dissolved to create a smooth sauce.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce over the beef mixture in the skillet and stir well to coat the meat. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Mix in the Noodles:
Now, add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the noodles are well coated with the sauce and heated through—about 2-3 minutes should do the trick.
7. Add Green Onions:
Stir in the chopped green onions and mix well. This adds a fresh crunch to your dish!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles hot. Garnish with additional chopped green onions and sesame seeds to make it look extra special. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Noodle?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute with any noodle you like, such as rice noodles, udon, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodles you choose!
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a different protein, ground turkey or chicken work great as substitutes. For a vegetarian option, try using crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is cooked through without drying out.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry, or simply microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you want to add some heat, try mixing in a bit of sriracha, chili paste, or red pepper flakes into the sauce before adding it to the beef. Start with a small amount, taste, and adjust to your desired spice level!
