Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are a tasty mix of savory beef, tender noodles, and fresh veggies. This dish is packed with flavor and comes together quickly, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
I love how each bite is a little adventure with the juicy beef and crunchy veggies. Plus, it’s fun to twirl those noodles on your fork! Who doesn’t enjoy a little noodle magic? 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: I love using egg noodles for their chewy texture, but spaghetti works just as well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, rice noodles are a fantastic alternative too!
Ground Beef: Ground beef is traditional, but ground turkey or chicken can lighten this dish while still keeping the flavor. For a vegetarian version, try using crumbled tofu or a meat substitute like lentils.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds a rich umami flavor. If you’re watching your sodium, consider low-sodium soy sauce. Tamari is a great gluten-free substitute, and coconut aminos can work if you’re avoiding soy altogether.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives sweetness and depth. If you’re out, white sugar or honey can be used; just adjust to taste as honey is sweeter.
Sesame Oil: This adds a nutty flavor that’s hard to beat. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute it with another oil, but you might miss out on that unique taste. Toasted sesame oil is especially great if you have it!
How Do You Perfectly Cook Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef might sound straightforward, but a couple of tips can help you achieve great results. First, use a skillet or wok that gets hot enough to brown the meat, enhancing its flavor.
- Start by adding the oil and then ground beef; don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Break apart the beef with a spoon while it cooks. This ensures even browning and texture.
- If there’s excess fat after browning, draining it helps keep the dish from becoming greasy. Just aim to keep a little fat for flavor!
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz noodles (e.g., egg noodles or spaghetti)
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the noodles and about 15 minutes preparing the beef and sauce, making it a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they’re al dente (cooked but still slightly firm). When ready, drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until it’s fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat in the pan, drain it out.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet with the beef, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes. You want the mixture to become fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour this flavorful sauce over the browned beef in the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Combine with Noodles:
Now it’s time to add the cooked noodles! Toss the noodles in the skillet with the beef and sauce mixture. Make sure every strand is coated in that delicious sauce. Stir in the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles hot. Garnish each serving with extra green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles and spaghetti work great, you can also try rice noodles, udon, or even whole wheat pasta. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodle you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken makes an excellent substitute! If you want a vegetarian version, consider using crumbled tempeh or tofu seasoned with some extra soy sauce for flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Of course! For some heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce mixture. You can also top the dish with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your taste!
