Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

This easy-to-make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles recipe is a flavorful combination of sweet and spicy flavors with tender noodles. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and tastes better than takeout! Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Noodles
• How to Make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
• Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
• Step 2: Cook the Pasta
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
• Step 5: Combine the Noodles and Sauce
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
• Add Fresh Herbs
• Serve with Lime Wedges
• Pair with Extra Protein
• Include Crunchy Toppings
• Create a Noodle Bar
• How to Perfect Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
• Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
• Reheating Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
• Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
• How can I customize my Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
• What type of noodles work best?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table.
• Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweet and spicy flavors makes for an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or adjust the sweetness to fit your palate.
• Better Than Takeout: Enjoy restaurant-quality food right at home without the extra cost.
• Easy Cleanup: One skillet means less mess and hassle in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Allows even cooking of the ground beef while providing ample space for combining ingredients.
• Cooking spoon: Essential for stirring ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even flavor distribution.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Helps maintain accuracy in ingredient quantities for consistent results.
• Small bowl: Ideal for mixing the cornstarch slurry without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 4 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup brown sugar (reduce to ⅓ or ¼ cup for less sweetness)
• ½ cup beef broth
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce (low-sodium, if available)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 10 ounces noodles (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

• 4 medium green onions, sliced

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How to Make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet with high sides, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the minced ginger and garlic during the last 2 minutes of browning. Break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the ground beef is cooking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Do not salt the pasta water, as the sauce is already salty. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Drain any excess fat from the cooked ground beef and return it to the skillet. Add soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in water to create a slurry. Add this slurry to the skillet and stir. Bring the mixture to a low boil and cook until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine the Noodles and Sauce

Add cooked and drained noodles to the beef mixture. Stir well to ensure that all noodles are coated with sauce. Let them sit in the sauce for a few minutes so they can absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with sliced green onions before serving hot. Enjoy this delightful sweet and savory noodle dish!

How to Serve Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in several ways. Whether you want to dress it up for a special occasion or keep it simple for a weeknight dinner, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh flavor.
• Basil: Thai basil adds an aromatic touch that complements the dish.

Serve with Lime Wedges

• Citrusy Twist: A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.

Pair with Extra Protein

• Fried Egg: Top each serving with a sunny-side-up egg for added richness.
• Grilled Chicken: Offer grilled chicken slices on the side for those who prefer more protein.

Include Crunchy Toppings

• Chopped Peanuts: Add crushed peanuts for texture and a nutty flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

Create a Noodle Bar

• Customize Your Dish: Set up toppings like green onions, chili flakes, and hoisin sauce so everyone can personalize their bowl.

How to Perfect Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic enhance the taste significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures the noodles hold up well when mixed with the sauce without becoming mushy.
• Adjust Sweetness Wisely: Start with less brown sugar and taste as you go; you can always add more if needed.
• Add Vegetables for Nutrition: Incorporate veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
• Let It Sit Before Serving: Allowing the noodles to sit in the sauce helps absorb flavors better.
• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to mix different sauces, such as teriyaki or sweet chili, for unique flavor profiles.

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Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweet and savory flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing the dish’s richness.
2. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls provide a satisfying crunch and can be filled with veggies or proteins of your choice.
3. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing offers a fresh contrast to the noodles.
4. Fried Rice: A side of fried rice brings additional carbs and delicious flavors that fit well with this Asian-inspired meal.
5. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp or vegetables add a light touch and are perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup makes for a comforting start or accompaniment to your noodle dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you perfect your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles dish.

• Overcooking the Noodles: Cooking the noodles for too long can make them mushy. Always follow package instructions and check for al dente texture.
• Using Regular Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce can make the dish overly salty. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to balance flavors without excess salt.
• Not Adding Enough Vegetables: Skipping vegetables can lead to a one-dimensional dish. Add colorful veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
• Skipping the Slurry Step: Neglecting to create a cornstarch slurry may result in a thin sauce. Always mix cornstarch with water before adding it to the skillet to achieve the right consistency.
• Ignoring Flavor Adjustments: Not adjusting sweetness or spice levels can limit your dish’s appeal. Taste as you go and modify sugar or red pepper flakes based on your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

• To freeze, place cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place noodles in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth or water, stirring until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?

Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is a quick and savory dish featuring ground beef, noodles, and a flavorful sauce that balances sweet and spicy notes.

Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the protein used.

How can I customize my Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. You can also adjust sweetness by modifying brown sugar levels or increase spice with more red pepper flakes.

What type of noodles work best?

While linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are great choices, you can also use rice noodles or egg noodles based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This easy-to-make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles recipe highlights a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors that is sure to impress any palate. Its versatility allows for customization with various ingredients while being ready in just 30 minutes. Try it out today!