Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings bold, savory flavors to your dinner table, Mongolian Ground Beef and Noodles is the perfect choice. Inspired by traditional Mongolian beef, this dish replaces steak with ground beef for a more affordable and accessible option while maintaining the signature sweet and savory sauce. The combination of caramelized ground beef, a rich Mongolian-style sauce, and tender noodles creates an incredibly satisfying dish that comes together in just 30 minutes.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily switch up the protein, use different types of noodles, or add vegetables to make it even more nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite.
Looking for another quick dinner idea? Try this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl for a flavorful meal packed with protein.
The History & Cultural Influence of Mongolian Beef
Despite its name, Mongolian beef does not originate from Mongolia. Instead, it is a dish that was popularized in Taiwan in the mid-20th century. Restaurants serving Chinese barbecue-style dishes created this flavorful stir-fried beef dish and labeled it as “Mongolian beef” to evoke the rustic, hearty flavors of Northern China and Mongolia.
In the United States, Mongolian beef became a staple in Chinese-American cuisine, typically served with a glossy sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Traditionally, the dish is made with flank steak or sirloin, stir-fried with scallions and served over steamed rice or noodles.
In this recipe, we modernize Mongolian beef by using ground beef instead of steak, making it quicker to prepare, more affordable, and perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients for Mongolian Ground Beef and Noodles
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Each component plays an essential role in bringing out the bold umami flavors in this dish.
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce – Provides deep umami flavor. If using regular soy sauce, reduce the salt in the recipe.
- ¼ cup brown sugar (or honey) – Balances the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness.
- ¼ cup beef broth (or water) – Adds depth to the sauce and prevents it from being too thick.
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce – Enhances the richness of the sauce with a slightly tangy, fermented taste.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Thickens the sauce, creating a glossy coating for the beef and noodles.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Infuses a nutty aroma and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Gives the dish a subtle kick of heat.
For the Noodles and Beef:
- 12 ounces egg noodles (or spaghetti) – Egg noodles provide a soft, chewy texture, but spaghetti or lo mein noodles work too.
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend) – A mix of 80% lean and 20% fat provides the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Helps brown the beef evenly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for a rich, aromatic base.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated – Brings warmth and depth to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Enhances the savory taste of the sauce.
- ½ cup green onions, sliced – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish) – Provides a final touch of crunch and nuttiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Cook the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
- Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent overcooking.
- Toss with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking, then set aside.
2: Make the Mongolian Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir well until the cornstarch is completely dissolved.
- Set aside—the sauce will thicken as it cooks.
3: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Once hot, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns.
- When the beef is almost cooked, stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper.
- Continue cooking for 2 more minutes until the garlic and ginger are fragrant.
4: Add the Sauce and Noodles
- Pour the prepared Mongolian sauce into the skillet with the ground beef.
- Stir well and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce
- Add the cooked noodles, tossing everything together to combine.
- Stir in green onions and cook for another 1 minute.
5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pairing Suggestions
Side Dishes That Go Well With Mongolian Beef and Noodles
- Steamed Broccoli or Bok Choy – A fresh, crunchy contrast to the savory noodles.
- Fried Rice – A delicious way to complement the dish with extra texture.
- Egg Rolls or Dumplings – Perfect as an appetizer.
- Asian Cucumber Salad – A light and refreshing side.
Best Drinks to Serve
- Jasmine Tea or Green Tea – Cleanses the palate.
- Cold Brewed Iced Tea – A light and cooling option.
- Light Beer or Sparkling Water – Complements the richness of the sauce.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~550 kcal |
| Protein | ~28g |
| Carbs | ~65g |
| Fat | ~18g |
| Sodium | ~1200mg |
| Fiber | ~4g |
To make the dish healthier, consider using whole wheat noodles, reducing the brown sugar, or adding more vegetables.
Final Thoughts
Mongolian Ground Beef and Noodles is the ultimate quick, easy, and budget-friendly meal. With its rich, flavorful sauce and satisfying noodles, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even a comforting homemade takeout meal.
So, why not make it tonight? Let us know how you enjoyed it!
If you love Asian-inspired meals, check out this Shrimp, Sausage, and Broccoli for another delicious option.
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