Get ready to dive into a deliciously comforting classic with this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe. It combines tender lo mein-style noodles with savory ground beef, all coated in a luscious sauce packed with garlic, ginger, and umami-rich flavors. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and a touch of heat, making this a soul-satisfying meal that’s quick enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough to share with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become an instant favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but play crucial roles in building the layered flavors and textures that make this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe so unforgettable. From the hearty noodles to the aromatic garlic and ginger, and the savory sauces, each element brings something special to the dish.
- 8 ounces noodles: Lo mein or ramen noodles work best for their chewy texture and ability to absorb the sauce beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose lean ground beef to keep the dish rich yet balanced without excess grease.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil: Perfect for sautéing as it has a high smoke point and a neutral taste.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a fragrant punch that wakes up the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced): Brings a lively warmth that complements the beef beautifully.
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended): Provides depth of flavor and savory saltiness without overpowering.
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce: Adds sweetness and a hint of tangy complexity to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the salty and spicy notes for a well-rounded profile.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: For an extra layer of umami richness that makes the sauce truly pop.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick of heat to awaken your taste buds.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water: A slurry that thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- 3 green onions (sliced plus extra for garnish): Brings fresh, crisp bites and a mild onion flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish): Adds a toasty crunch and visual appeal to finish the dish.
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Begin by cooking your noodles according to the package instructions. Whether you’re using lo mein or ramen noodles, make sure they are tender but still have that slight chew. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside. This step gives the noodles the perfect texture to soak up the delicious sauce later on.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook it until it is nicely browned and fully cooked through, usually about 5 to 6 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy, but leave just enough to carry those wonderful flavors forward.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Ginger
Next, toss the minced garlic and ginger into the browned beef. Sauté this mixture for about a minute or until it becomes fragrant. This step is key as it infuses the beef with those signature aromatic notes you’ll find in every bite of this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe.
Step 4: Combine Sauces and Flavorings
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, and red pepper flakes if using. Pour this savory-sweet mixture over the beef and stir well to coat. This sauce is where all the magic happens, uniting every ingredient in perfect harmony.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then stir it into the beef and sauce mixture. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and become glossy. This luscious coating is what clings lovingly to the noodles in the final step.
Step 6: Toss the Noodles
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss them with the beef and sauce until every strand is evenly coated and heated through. This ensures that each mouthful is packed with flavor and texture.
Step 7: Add Green Onions
Finally, stir in the sliced green onions just before taking the skillet off the heat. These fresh bursts of flavor and color elevate the dish, giving it a bright, crisp finish. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if you feel it needs a little more salt, heat, or sweetness.
Step 8: Serve with Garnishes
Scoop the noodles into bowls and garnish with extra green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. This final touch adds a beautiful look and a subtle crunch that perfectly complements the silky noodles and tender beef.
How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds gives the dish an appealing freshness and texture contrast. You might even try a drizzle of toasted sesame oil or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for another layer of flavor and crunch that friends will rave about.
Side Dishes
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe shines as a complete meal, but pairing it with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a crunchy Asian slaw highlights a variety of flavors and textures on your plate while balancing the richness of the noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to dazzle your guests? Serve the noodles in individual mini bowls or cute Asian-style soup spoons as appetizers. For a family dinner, present the dish family-style right from the skillet and let everyone help themselves to the deliciousness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As the noodles absorb the sauce over time, gently reheat to bring back that glossy, saucy goodness without drying out.
Freezing
Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. When thawing, do so overnight in the refrigerator for best texture retention.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers over medium-low heat in a skillet or wok with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! While lo mein or ramen noodles are recommended for their texture and ability to soak up the sauce, you can also use spaghetti, rice noodles, or even udon for a different twist that still works beautifully.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or plant-based ground meat alternatives. Make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly and keep the same flavorful sauce for authenticity.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?
The dish has a mild heat level thanks to red pepper flakes, which are optional. Feel free to omit them or add more if you love spicy food. You can also add chili paste or fresh chilies for an extra kick.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make the recipe gluten-free, choose gluten-free noodles and swap soy sauce and oyster sauce for gluten-free versions. Many brands offer tamari or coconut aminos as soy sauce alternatives that work wonderfully.
What are some good protein substitutes?
If you want to switch things up, ground turkey, chicken, or even finely chopped mushrooms can replace ground beef while keeping the dish hearty and delicious. Just adjust cooking times to ensure your protein is cooked through.
Final Thoughts
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe is truly a gem that combines simplicity and bold flavor to create a meal that everyone will love. From the quick prep to the irresistible sauce, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. I encourage you to make it your own, share it with loved ones, and watch it become a go-to favorite that fills your kitchen with warmth and joy.
Print
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
A quick and flavorful Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe featuring tender ground beef cooked in a savory, umami-rich sauce served over perfectly cooked noodles. This dish combines the bold flavors of soy, hoisin, oyster sauce, garlic, and ginger, finished with a touch of heat and garnished with fresh green onions and sesame seeds for a satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 8 ounces noodles (lo mein or ramen noodles)
Beef and Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef (lean)
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced)
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (for deeper umami)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
Garnish
- 3 green onions (sliced plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them thoroughly and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Brown the ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook it, stirring occasionally, until fully browned and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and fresh ginger to the cooked beef. Sauté for about one minute, stirring frequently until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Prepare and add the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, and optional red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over the beef in the skillet and stir to combine thoroughly.
- Thicken the sauce: Mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then stir it into the skillet. Continue cooking and stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef nicely.
- Toss noodles with beef and sauce: Add the drained noodles to the skillet and toss well to ensure the noodles are fully coated with the flavorful sauce and beef mixture. Heat through evenly.
- Finish with green onions: Stir in the sliced green onions to add freshness and a mild onion flavor. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve and garnish: Transfer the prepared noodles to serving bowls or plates. Garnish each serving with extra sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use low sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness of the dish.
- Oyster sauce can be omitted for a slightly different but still delicious flavor, or replaced with vegetarian mushroom sauce if needed.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes amount based on your preferred spice level or omit for no heat.
- For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and calories.
- Adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas can enhance texture and nutrition.
- The cornstarch slurry is essential to achieve the thick, glossy sauce characteristic of Mongolian-style dishes.
