This Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles dish is a tasty mix of beef, veggies, and noodles tossed in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s quick to make and super satisfying!
I love how everything cooks in one pan! It makes cleanup easy, and the best part? The noodles soak up all that delicious sauce. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Udon Noodles: These chewy noodles are perfect for this dish. If you can’t find them, thick spaghetti works well too! Rice noodles can be a gluten-free option. Just pay attention to the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Ground Beef: I usually go for lean ground beef to keep it lighter. Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute if you prefer less fat. For a plant-based option, try using textured vegetable protein or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat!
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is my go-to for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. You can substitute it with tamari for a gluten-free version or coconut aminos for a sweeter taste.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives that nice sweetness, but you can use honey or maple syrup as substitutes. For a lower-calorie option, try a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener!
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor. If you don’t have any, you can use olive oil, although it won’t have the same taste. Just drizzle a little at the end for a hint of flavor.
How Do I Cook the Noodles Perfectly?
Cooking noodles can sometimes be tricky, but here’s how you get them just right:
- Follow package instructions, but aim for ‘al dente’ for the perfect texture—slightly firm to the bite.
- Use plenty of salted water to boil the noodles, which helps flavor them.
- Once cooked, don’t forget to drain them well, but don’t rinse! Rinsing washes away the starch that helps the sauce stick later.
- Set them aside to keep warm while you cook the rest. You can toss them with a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking!
Following these tips will help your noodles enhance the overall dish and soak up that flavorful sauce beautifully!
How to Make Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 12 oz dried udon noodles (or thick spaghetti noodles)
- 1 lb ground beef
Flavor Additions:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 4 green onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
Garnishes:
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes or chili sauce for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking, making the total time around 30 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Boil water in a large pot. Add the udon noodles (or spaghetti) and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside. Don’t rinse them; you want that starch to help the sauce stick later!
2. Sauté the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Aromatics:
Once the beef is cooked, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Stir well and let them cook together for about 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, water (or beef broth), brown sugar, and sesame oil. Stir until the brown sugar is fully dissolved. Pour this delightful mixture over the beef in the skillet.
5. Simmer:
Give everything a good stir to combine it nicely. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This will bring all those flavors together beautifully!
6. Combine with Noodles:
Now, add your cooked noodles and most of the sliced green onions (save a few for garnishing) into the skillet. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, making sure the noodles are coated well with the delicious sauce.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your noodles a taste. If you like it spicier, now’s the time to add red pepper flakes or a squeeze of chili sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Plate up your Mongolian noodles while they’re hot. Garnish with the reserved green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch. Enjoy your comforting and savory meal!
You’re ready to dig in—enjoy your flavorful Mongolian Beef Noodles! 🍜
FAQ for Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Can I Use Another Type of Noodle?
Absolutely! While udon noodles provide a delicious chewiness, you can substitute them with thick spaghetti or even rice noodles for a gluten-free option. Just pay attention to the cooking times for each type!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want some heat, add red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce when mixing in the sauce. You can also toss in sliced jalapeños for an extra kick before serving!
What Are Some Good Storage Tips for Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas when you sauté the beef. Just make sure to cook them until they’re tender but still crisp for the best texture!
