Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a tasty and easy dish! It has ground beef, noodles, and a zingy sauce that brings everything together. Perfect for a quick family dinner!
This dish has a great mix of flavors that makes it really satisfying. I love how I can whip it up in no time when I’m feeling lazy but still want something yummy. Plus, it makes great leftovers!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: Spaghetti or lo mein work well, but you can also try rice noodles or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. I often use whole wheat spaghetti for a bit of extra fiber.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef gives great flavor. For a healthier twist, turkey or ground chicken can be used. They work just as well but may need careful seasoning since they can be milder.
Green Onions: Fresh chopped green onions add a nice crunch. If you can’t find them, chives or shallots could work too. I love using them generously for extra flavor!
Sesame Oil: This oil brings a wonderful nuttiness to the dish. If you’re out of it, try using olive oil or canola oil, but keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different.
Chili Paste: I like adding chili paste for a kick of heat, but it’s optional. You can switch it up with sriracha, red pepper flakes, or skip it entirely if you prefer it mild.
How Can I Make Sure My Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the ground beef well is crucial for texture and flavor. Start by choosing a large skillet or wok to give it space to brown evenly. Here are some tips:
- Use medium heat to prevent burning. If it cooks too fast, you might get chewy bits.
- Break the beef into smaller pieces with a spatula while it cooks. This helps it to cook evenly and develop flavor.
- Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. This ensures it’s safe to eat and adds a nice brown crust!
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 8 oz. noodles (such as spaghetti or lo mein)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp chili paste (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the noodles and 10 minutes whipping up the beef mixture. It’s a quick, tasty meal that’s ready in a flash!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Noodles:
Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain them and set them aside for later. This keeps them ready to mix with the beef!
2. Sautéing Garlic and Ginger:
In a large skillet or wok, pour in the sesame oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil, and sauté them for about 30 seconds until they are fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
3. Browning the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to your skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook it until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally!
4. Making the Sauce:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili paste (if you like a bit of heat). Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly, making everything super flavorful.
5. Mixing in the Noodles:
Now it’s time to add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated in the beef mixture. Allow it to heat through for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Seasoning and Serving:
Finally, season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. Remove it from heat and serve it hot. Don’t forget to garnish with the chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy your delicious Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles!
Can I Substitute the Noodles?
Absolutely! If you want to switch it up, you can use rice noodles, zoodles (zucchini noodles), or even whole grain pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodle you choose, especially if using fresh or pre-cooked varieties.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to avoid dryness, or heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute work well! Just be mindful that cook times may vary slightly depending on the protein you select, so ensure it’s cooked through before serving.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! To amp up the heat, you can add more chili paste or include some sliced fresh chili peppers along with the garlic and ginger. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes at the end for an extra kick!
