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 hosting a casual dinner or need a quick meal after a long day, this dish will impress with its vibrant taste and satisfying texture.

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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
• For the Sauce
• For Thickening
• 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 the Noodles and Sauce
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Crunchy Vegetables
• Serve with Additional Sauces
• Enjoy with Rice
• How to Perfect Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
• Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
• Reheating Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What can I substitute for ground beef in Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
• How spicy are Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
• What type of noodles work best for this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic weeknights.
• Flavorful Fusion: The sweet and spicy balance of flavors makes each bite irresistible.
• Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the sweetness or add vegetables to make this dish your own.
• Better Than Takeout: Enjoy restaurant-quality noodles at home without the extra cost.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking pot for pasta
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef and mixing the sauce evenly.
• Cooking pot for pasta: Ensures you can cook the noodles perfectly al dente.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like garlic and green onions.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for efficiently mincing ginger and garlic.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 10 ounces noodles (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

For the Sauce

• 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)

For Thickening

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish

• 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. Note that you should not salt the pasta water since 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 all ingredients thoroughly.

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 well. 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 gently but thoroughly to ensure that all noodles are well coated with sauce. Let them sit in this mixture for a few minutes so they can absorb all those delicious flavors.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with sliced green onions before serving hot. Enjoy this sweet and savory noodle dish that everyone will love!

How to Serve Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Adds a refreshing flavor that complements the sweet and savory sauce.
• Basil: Offers a fragrant touch that enhances the overall taste.

Pair with Crunchy Vegetables

• Cucumbers: Slices of cucumber provide a cool contrast to the warm noodles.
• Bell Peppers: Colorful bell pepper strips add crunch and sweetness to each bite.

Serve with Additional Sauces

• Sriracha: For those who love heat, drizzle some sriracha over the top for extra spice.
• Peanut Sauce: A nutty peanut sauce can offer a unique twist on this dish.

Enjoy with Rice

• Steamed Rice: Serve the noodles over a bed of steamed rice for a heartier meal.
• Fried Rice: Pairing with fried rice brings in additional flavors and textures.

How to Perfect Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

To make your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that each bite is packed with flavor and cooked to perfection.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Use fresh ginger and garlic for a more aromatic sauce. Dried spices lack the punch of fresh ingredients.
• Texture Matters: Cook the beef until it’s nicely browned. This adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Follow package instructions closely to avoid mushy noodles. They should have a slight bite (al dente).
• Flavor Infusion Time: Allow the noodles to sit in the sauce for several minutes before serving. This lets them absorb all the delicious flavors.
• Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added nutrition and texture.

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Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

Pairing your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that work well together:

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables provide a crunchy contrast.
2. Egg Rolls: These savory rolls are packed with flavor and make an excellent appetizer alongside your noodles.
3. Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing offers a light, crunchy side.
4. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with meat or vegetables add heartiness to your meal.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup makes for a comforting starter that pairs perfectly with noodles.
6. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame pods are nutritious and fun finger food to enjoy while eating.
7. Sesame Broccoli: Bright green broccoli tossed in sesame oil adds both color and health benefits to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Ginger and Garlic: These ingredients add essential flavor. Always include them during the cooking process for a fragrant base.
• Overcooking the Noodles: Follow package instructions carefully. Overcooked noodles can become mushy and lose their appealing texture.
• Not Adjusting Sweetness: The recipe calls for brown sugar, but personal preferences vary. Taste your sauce and adjust the sweetness to suit your palate.
• Using Regular Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of your dish. This helps balance flavors without overwhelming them.
• Ignoring Vegetable Add-ins: Adding veggies like broccoli or snap peas enhances nutrition and texture. Don’t hesitate to customize your recipe with extra ingredients.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Make sure to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place noodles in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for ground beef in Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option while maintaining flavor.

How spicy are Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?

The spice level is adjustable based on your preference. You can add more red pepper flakes or sriracha for an extra kick!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and check that your noodles are also gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.

What type of noodles work best for this recipe?

Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are all suitable options. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand!

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is a delightful and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving something comforting yet quick. With room for customization—like adjusting sweetness or adding vegetables—this meal can easily adapt to fit your taste preferences. Give it a try; you’ll be amazed at how much better it tastes than takeout!

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