This Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles dish is packed with flavor! You’ll enjoy delicious beef cooked with tasty sauces over warm, chewy noodles. It’s quick to make, perfect for any night!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that’s ready in a flash? I whip this up on busy evenings, and my family gives it two thumbs up every time! Plus, you can add veggies for extra crunch! 🥦🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, providing protein and a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead. They will still taste great but with less fat!
Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but any noodles will work. Try rice noodles, udon, or even whole wheat pasta for a twist. If gluten-free is needed, look for gluten-free noodles available at most grocery stores.
Soy Sauce: This provides the salty, umami flavor. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari. Coconut aminos is a fantastic soy-free alternative that works well here too!
Brown Sugar: It balances the salty soy sauce. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup if needed. For a sugar-free option, stevia works okay but adjust to taste.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Aromatics?
Getting the most flavor from garlic and ginger is crucial. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding garlic and ginger. This helps release their oils quickly.
- Don’t cook them too long; 1-2 minutes is enough! Overcooking can lead to a bitter taste.
- Keep stirring to prevent burning. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat!
Using fresh garlic and ginger makes a big difference in this dish! Fresh boosts flavor compared to powdered varieties.
Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz ground beef
- 8 oz egg noodles or any preferred noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 25 minutes total. You will need around 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes to cook everything. Quick and easy, perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start off by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add in the egg noodles (or your preferred noodles). Cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, then drain them and set aside. Keep them warm while you prepare the beef!
2. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula. This should take about 4-5 minutes. Keep stirring to ensure all sides are cooked well.
3. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté them together for about 1-2 minutes until you can smell that delicious aroma. Be sure not to burn them!
4. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Mix it well until the sugar is dissolved.
5. Combine Sauce with Beef:
Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly and really soak into the meat.
6. Mix in the Noodles:
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together, mixing thoroughly until the noodles are well coated with that savory sauce. Cook for another minute or two, just to heat everything through!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from heat. Serve your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. They add a nice crunch and look great on the plate!
Enjoy your easy and flavorful Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles! Perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional for this dish, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time and seasonings as needed!
What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
No worries! You can use tamari as a gluten-free alternative, or coconut aminos for a soy-free option. Both will add a delicious umami flavor to your dish without sacrificing taste!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if the noodles seem dry.
Can I Add Vegetables?
Definitely! You can toss in vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to add color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the beef before adding the garlic and ginger for a delicious crunch!
