This tasty Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles dish combines juicy beef with soft noodles in a sweet and tangy sauce. It’s a quick meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!
You can whip this up in no time! I love how the flavors come together, making dinner feel special without all the fuss. Perfect for busy nights—yay for one-pan meals! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe shines with ground beef as it adds richness. You can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier twist!
Noodles: Egg noodles are delicious here, but any noodle like lo mein or rice noodles works too. If gluten is a concern, consider using gluten-free noodles.
Soy Sauce: This is essential for that umami flavor. If you’re avoiding soy, try tamari or coconut aminos to make it gluten-free.
Brown Sugar: The sweetness balances the saltiness of soy sauce. Honey or maple syrup can be used instead if you want a different flavor.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh minced garlic and ginger boost flavor. If you’re short on fresh, garlic powder and ground ginger can work, but fresh is best for maximum taste!
How Do I Cook the Noodles Perfectly?
Cooking the noodles correctly is key to ensure they’re the right texture. Follow these simple steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for flavor.
- Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes for egg noodles.
- Taste a noodle a minute before the recommended time to check if it’s al dente—that’s when it has a slight bite to it.
- Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps prevent them from becoming mushy.
Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz ground beef
- 8 oz egg noodles or lo mein noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, making the total time about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once done, drain them in a colander and set aside for later. This helps ensure that they won’t get sticky while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté them for about 30 seconds, or until they’re fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds a lovely foundation of flavor for your dish!
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Sauté the beef for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s extra fat, feel free to drain it carefully during this step.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, water, and brown sugar. Mix until the sugar is fully dissolved. This creates a delicious sauce that will bring all the flavors together!
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked beef in the skillet and stir well to coat the beef evenly. After that, add the cooked noodles directly into the skillet and toss everything together. Cook for about 2 more minutes to heat through and combine all the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is mixed and lovely, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with sliced green onions and sprinkle on sesame seeds if you like. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work great in this recipe. They’ll provide a lighter option while still absorbing the flavorful sauce. Just cook them in the same way as the beef until they are fully browned.
What if I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
No worries! You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option or use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter and less salty flavor. You can also try homemade soy sauce alternatives using ingredients like broth, vinegar, and spices!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you like a kick, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste as you mix it in!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the noodles, and warm them in a pan or microwave until heated through.
