This Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles dish is a quick and tasty meal that combines savory beef with noodles and a hint of sweetness. It’s a one-pan wonder that will have everyone smiling!
You just throw everything together, and before you know it, dinner is served. I love how it’s ready in no time, leaving more moments for fun with family or friends. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the star here, but you can easily swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Vegetarian alternatives like crumbled tofu or tempeh work well too.
Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but you could use rice noodles, spaghetti, or even zucchini noodles to make it gluten-free or low-carb. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds a nice depth of flavor, but if you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, low-sodium soy sauce works just as well. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative too.
Brown Sugar: For a healthier option, try using honey or agave syrup. You can also reduce the amount if you prefer it less sweet.
Why is Properly Cooking the Beef Important?
Cooking the beef properly is key for great texture and flavor. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice sear while keeping it juicy.
- Break the beef apart as it cooks for even browning and cook until it’s no longer pink.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you need, cook in batches for the best results.
Following these steps will ensure your beef is full of flavor and has a great texture!
Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) ground beef
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles or your choice of noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and another 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, plan for around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Noodles:
Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re done, drain and set them aside. This step is important because it gives you the perfect base for the tasty beef sauce!
2. Browning the Beef:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked—this should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat in the pan, carefully drain it out.
3. Aromatics Time!
Once the beef is cooked, add in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook these for about 1 minute, stirring until they’re fragrant. This will add a wonderful flavor to your dish!
4. Making the Sauce:
Now, stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, water (or beef broth), and red pepper flakes if you want a bit of spice. Let this sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Combining Noodles and Beef:
Add the cooked noodles back into the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the savory sauce and heated through. This is where the magic happens!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the noodles hot, garnished with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles!
This dish is not only flavorful but also quick to make, making it a fantastic choice for any meal!
FAQ for Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be substituted for ground beef. You can also use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce. This will keep the flavor while accommodating dietary restrictions.
What Can I Do with Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent sticking.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just sauté them along with the garlic and ginger for a nutritious boost!
