Mongolian Ground Beef and Noodles is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings together tender ground beef, savory soy sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles, all in one skillet. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal when you need something quick, hearty, and full of flavor. The combination of sweet and savory sauce with the beef and noodles makes this dish a family favorite. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti noodles
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Cook the linguine or spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Garlic and Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, hoisin sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce into the skillet with the ground beef.
- Combine with Noodles: Stir in the cooked noodles and sliced green onions. Toss everything together until the noodles are coated in the sauce and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with additional sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Noodle Choice: You can use any long pasta, such as linguine, spaghetti, or even udon noodles. For a more authentic touch, try using rice noodles.
- Ground Beef Fat Content: If using a higher-fat ground beef, be sure to drain off excess fat to avoid a greasy dish.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Mongolian Chicken and Noodles: Replace the ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version of this dish.
- Add Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas for extra texture and nutrition. Sauté the vegetables with the ground beef until tender-crisp.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dish: Serve with steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or bok choy, for a balanced meal.
- Garnish: Top with chopped cilantro or extra green onions for added freshness.
- Appetizer: Pair with egg rolls or spring rolls to create a complete takeout-style dinner at home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Freeze Mongolian Ground Beef and Noodles?
While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the noodles may change slightly upon reheating. If you choose to freeze it, let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Hoisin Sauce?
If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can substitute with a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and a splash of rice vinegar for a similar flavor.
How Do I Make This Dish Spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a tablespoon of Sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
Can I Use Fresh Ginger Instead of Grated Ginger?
Yes, finely mince or grate fresh ginger for the best flavor. Fresh ginger adds a bright, aromatic note to the dish.
Mongolian Ground Beef and Noodles in Skillet is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender ground beef, savory sauce, and satisfying noodles, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, and enjoy a homemade takeout-style meal without the wait. Gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and get ready for a delicious dinner!
Happy Cooking!