Mongolian Ground Beef and Noodles is a quick, delicious one-skillet meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender noodles with savory ground beef in a sweet and tangy Mongolian-style sauce. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish delivers a takeout-inspired flavor without ever needing to leave your kitchen. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine noodles
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 4 green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Noodles
- Boil Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the Mongolian Sauce
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Add Sauce to Skillet: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Combine with Noodles
- Add Noodles and Green Onions: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce until well coated. Stir in the chopped green onions and sesame oil.
Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar to 1/4 cup.
- Noodle Choice: You can use any type of long pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, or even use rice noodles for a more traditional Asian-inspired touch.
- Cornstarch: The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce, giving it a rich, glossy texture. Be sure to whisk it well with the soy sauce mixture to prevent clumps.
Variations
- Vegetarian Mongolian Noodles: Substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Add Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas to the skillet for added color, texture, and nutrition.
- Spicy Mongolian Beef: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to increase the spice level.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve with a simple cucumber salad or mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Steamed Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
- Egg Rolls: Serve alongside crispy egg rolls for an extra fun takeout-inspired experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the noodles fresh to avoid them becoming too soft. Store the beef and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked noodles.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Mongolian Ground Beef and Noodles?
You can freeze the cooked beef and sauce, but it’s recommended to cook the noodles fresh when reheating. Store the beef and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?
You can use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce. Keep in mind that tamari tends to be saltier, so you may want to reduce the amount.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to beef. It’s lighter and works well with the flavors of the sauce.
Mongolian Ground Beef and Noodles is an easy and satisfying one-skillet meal that brings together the savory flavors of Mongolian-style cooking with the convenience of ground beef and noodles. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please. Gather your ingredients, cook, and enjoy this flavorful, takeout-inspired meal!
Happy Cooking!