Name: Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 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); 10 ounces noodles (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; 4 medium green onions (sliced)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sweet and savory Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles dish is packed with bold flavors, tender beef, and chewy noodles coated in a rich umami sauce. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight meal. Plus, it’s better than takeout and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet or wok
Large pot for boiling noodles
Mixing bowls
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Preparation Tips

Mince the garlic and ginger in advance for quicker cooking.
Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth process.
Use lean ground beef to minimize excess grease.

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
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)
10 ounces noodles (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
4 medium green onions, sliced

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef.
Add the minced ginger and garlic during the last 2 minutes of browning.
Break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.

2. Cook the Pasta

While the beef is cooking, boil the pasta according to package instructions.
Do not salt the pasta water, as the sauce is already salty.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Make the Sauce

Drain any excess fat from the cooked 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.

4. Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in water to create a slurry.
Add the slurry to the skillet and stir well.
Bring the mixture to a low boil and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Combine the Noodles and Sauce

Add the cooked and drained noodles to the skillet.
Stir to ensure the noodles are well coated with the sauce.
Let the noodles sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

6. Serve

Garnish with sliced green onions.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

With Vegetables: Add broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, or carrots for extra nutrition.
With a Side Dish: Serve with egg rolls, steamed dumplings, or a crisp cucumber salad.
With a Soup: Enjoy with miso soup or hot and sour soup for a complete meal.
With Rice: Pair with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for extra substance.
With Pickled Vegetables: Serve alongside kimchi or pickled radishes for a tangy contrast.
With a Fresh Salad: A simple Asian-style slaw or sesame cucumber salad complements the dish well.
With Spring Rolls: Add a light, crunchy appetizer to balance the rich flavors.
With a Fried Egg: Top your noodles with a fried egg for extra texture and protein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the beef: Cook just until browned to keep it tender.
Skipping the cornstarch slurry: This helps thicken the sauce for better coating.
Overcooking the noodles: Slightly undercook them before adding to the sauce to prevent mushy texture.
Using too much sugar: Adjust the sweetness according to your preference.
Not draining excess fat: If using high-fat ground beef, drain well to prevent a greasy dish.
Forgetting to taste-test: Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Recipe Tips, Storage, and Reheating Instructions

Recipe Tips

For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Try different noodles like udon or rice noodles for variation.
Double the sauce if you prefer a saucier dish.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the noodles may become mushy.

Reheating Instructions

Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative, though it may have a slightly different flavor.

What type of noodles work best?

Linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine work well, but you can also use rice noodles for a gluten-free option.

How can I make this spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add sriracha to taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but store the sauce and noodles separately to prevent sogginess.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles recipe is an easy, delicious meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavors in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors!

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