Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a tasty and comforting dish. It features savory ground beef cooked with soy sauce and garlic, tossed with soft noodles that soak up all the flavor.
This dish is super easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. I love how the kids enjoy it too—who can resist those delicious noodles? 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: I recommend using egg noodles for a traditional taste. However, spaghetti is a great alternative if you prefer. Other options like udon or rice noodles can also work well, making this dish adaptable for your pantry.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you’re looking for a different flavor, ground turkey or chicken can work too. They offer a lighter taste and can be just as tasty in this recipe.
Sauces: Soy sauce is crucial for that rich umami flavor. If you’re gluten-free, try tamari as a substitute. Oyster sauce adds depth; if you don’t have it on hand, a mix of soy sauce and a bit of sugar can mimic the sweetness. Hoisin sauce can be swapped with BBQ sauce for a different twist.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic elevate the taste. If you’re short on time, you can use powdered versions, but fresh really shines through here. Also, consider minced shallots as a nice substitute for garlic.
How Do You Make Sure the Ground Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to perfect ground beef is to not overcrowd the pan—this allows for even browning. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet or wok over medium-high heat before adding ground beef.
- Cook the beef in batches if necessary, making sure it’s in a single layer.
- Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly on all sides.
- This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, and be sure to simmer properly after adding sauces—you want everything to come together nicely.
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz egg noodles or spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
Flavorful Sauces:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the noodles and the beef, plus a little time mixing everything together. It’s quick, simple, and totally delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Begin by cooking the egg noodles or spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once done, drain them well and set them aside. This will be the base for your tasty dish!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks until it’s browned and no longer pink.
3. Add Aromatics:
Now, add the minced garlic and ginger to your skillet. Stir everything together for about 1-2 minutes until you smell the wonderful aroma wafting up. This adds amazing flavor to your dish.
4. Combine the Sauces:
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar. Stir to combine everything well and let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This will let the flavors meld beautifully together.
5. Mix in the Noodles:
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together. Make sure the noodles are well coated with the sauce and heated through. It should all look and smell incredible by now!
6. Final Touches:
Stir in the chopped green onions and taste your dish. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. It’s all about what you enjoy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles hot, garnished with extra green onions and sesame seeds. Dig in and enjoy this flavorful meal!
Can I Use Another Type of Noodle for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles or spaghetti are traditional choices, you can use rice noodles, udon, or even whole wheat pasta if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodles you choose!
How Can I Adjust the Heat Level?
If you’d like to spice things up, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce. For a milder version, simply reduce the crushed red pepper or omit it entirely. Remember, you can always taste and adjust as you go!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in a skillet and add freshly cooked noodles for best texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the noodles from getting dry, and stir until heated through.
