Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

This easy-to-make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles recipe combines sweet and spicy flavors with tender noodles, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish that tastes even better than takeout! Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this meal 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 Beef Mixture
• For the Sauce
• For the Noodles
• For Thickening Sauce
• For Garnish
• 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 Noodles and Sauce
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
• Family Style
• With Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by Lime Wedges
• In Lettuce Wraps
• Topped with Sesame Seeds
• 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
• Can I use different types of noodles?
• How spicy is this Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles recipe?
• Can I add vegetables to this dish?
• What can I serve with Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
• How do I adjust the sweetness of my noodles?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of preparation and cooking time, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of ginger, garlic, and hoisin sauce creates a rich taste that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile: You can customize the spice level and add vegetables to suit your preferences, making it adaptable for everyone.
• Better Than Takeout: Enjoy the restaurant-quality flavors at home without the hefty price tag or wait time.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish stores well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking spatula
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl for cornstarch slurry

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides enough space to cook the ground beef evenly while allowing you to mix in the sauce easily.
• Cooking spatula: Helps break up the ground beef and stir the ingredients without damaging your cookware.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures that you can cook your noodles perfectly while you prepare the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 4 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

• 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)

For the Noodles

• 10 ounces noodles (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

For Thickening Sauce

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish

• 4 medium green onions, sliced

How to Make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

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

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While browning the ground beef, cook your chosen noodles according to package instructions. Remember not to salt the pasta water since the sauce contains soy sauce. Drain and set aside once cooked.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

After draining excess fat from your cooked beef, return it to the skillet. Stir in soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this mixture into the skillet. Bring everything to a low boil and let it cook until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Add your drained noodles into the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir well to ensure all noodles are coated in that delicious sauce. Let them sit 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 sweet and savory noodle dish that’s sure to delight!

How to Serve Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles can be enjoyed in various ways, making them an excellent choice for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the noodles in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a communal dining atmosphere.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil for an aromatic finish. The herbs add freshness and enhance the dish’s flavors.

Accompanied by Lime Wedges

• Add lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, serve the noodles in large lettuce leaves. This makes for a light and refreshing alternative.

Topped with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkle sesame seeds over the final dish for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sauce.

How to Perfect Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

To make sure your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles are top-notch, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will enhance the overall flavor of your dish, making it taste more vibrant.
• Control Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your preference for sweetness; less sugar means a more savory dish.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: Aim for al dente noodles to ensure they maintain their shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to add color and nutritional value to your meal.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you enjoy heat, increase the red pepper flakes or try adding sriracha for an extra kick.
• Let Flavors Marinate: Allow the noodles to sit in the sauce for a few minutes before serving so they can absorb all those delicious flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

Pairing side dishes with your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles can create a more rounded meal. Here are some great options.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast to the rich flavors of the noodles.
2. Egg Rolls: Crunchy egg rolls stuffed with veggies or meat complement the soft texture of noodles perfectly.
3. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with crisp cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar adds brightness to your plate.
4. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice can be served alongside for a hearty touch that pairs well with Asian-inspired meals.
5. Spring Rolls: Light and crispy spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables offer a delightful crunch alongside your noodles.
6. Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in sesame oil add both flavor and nutrition, enhancing your meal’s appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles can be a breeze, but several common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using Too Much Sugar: Adding too much brown sugar can make the dish overly sweet. Start with ½ cup and adjust according to your taste.

• Neglecting the Pasta Cooking Instructions: Not following the package instructions for cooking pasta can result in overcooked or undercooked noodles. Always check the recommended cooking time.

• Skipping the Slurry Step: Failing to create the cornstarch slurry may leave your sauce too thin. Always combine cornstarch with water before adding it to the skillet.

• Not Letting Noodles Absorb Sauce: Serving immediately after mixing without letting the noodles sit can prevent them from soaking up flavor. Allow them a few minutes in the sauce before serving.

• Overcooking the Ground Beef: Cooking ground beef too long can make it tough. Brown it just until cooked through and add ginger and garlic toward the end for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• These noodles can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat noodles in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place noodles in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, here are some answers.

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes! You can substitute linguine with fettuccine or spaghetti based on your preference.

How spicy is this Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles recipe?

The spice level is adjustable. Add more red pepper flakes or sriracha if you prefer extra heat!

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like broccoli or snap peas is a great way to boost nutrition and flavor.

What can I serve with Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, salad, or fresh spring rolls for a complete meal.

How do I adjust the sweetness of my noodles?

Simply reduce the amount of brown sugar used in the recipe to customize your desired sweetness level.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious. With its sweet and savory flavors combined with tender noodles, it’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. Enjoy this hearty meal that is sure to impress!