This dish features tender ground beef and soft noodles tossed in a deliciously sweet and savory sauce. Perfect for busy nights when you want a yummy meal in no time!
Honestly, it’s a lifesaver on hectic days when cooking feels like a puzzle. I love popping this together in just 30 minutes—quick, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: Spaghetti works great, but you can switch it up with Chinese egg noodles or even rice noodles for a gluten-free option. Each type brings a different texture!
Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner meat. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, crumbled tofu or lentils could also stand in quite nicely.
Soy Sauce: I recommend low-sodium soy sauce for better control of saltiness. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari sauce instead. Coconut aminos is another tasty substitute.
Brown Sugar: For a healthier touch, try honey or maple syrup. They add sweetness without refined sugar. Just remember to adjust the amount based on your taste!
How Do I Get the Beef to Brown Perfectly?
Getting that perfect browned ground beef is key to flavor! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet and enough oil to coat the bottom. This allows for a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if you have a lot. This prevents steaming and helps browning.
- Let the beef sit without stirring for a couple of minutes, then break it up and stir. This develops nice color and flavor.
Remember, patience is key. Following these tips will give you delicious, aromatic beef that’s the backbone of your dish!
Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles for a Quick Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or Chinese egg noodles
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon hoisin sauce (optional, for extra depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 green onions, sliced thinly (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal comes together in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and cooking the noodles, and another 20 minutes finishing the beef and sauce. Quick and easy for a busy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside while you prepare the beef.
2. Brown the Beef:
While the noodles are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, using a spatula to break it apart. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and fully cooked. If there’s any excess fat, you can drain it now.
3. Add Aromatics:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for about 1 minute, just until the mixture becomes fragrant. This step adds a wonderful flavor base to your dish!
4. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, hoisin sauce (if you choose to use it), and black pepper. Pour this sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef and stir well to combine. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes for the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Combine with Noodles:
Now, it’s time to add the cooked noodles and most of the sliced green onions to the skillet. Toss everything well to ensure the noodles are coated with the beef and sauce mixture.
6. Heat Through:
Cook everything together for an additional 1-2 minutes so everything is heated through. The noodles should be nice and warm along with the beef.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the noodles and beef to serving plates or bowls. Top each serving with the remaining green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
Now your quick and easy Mongolian ground beef noodles are ready to enjoy! It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
FAQ about Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, you can substitute with crumbled tofu or even lentils for a hearty, plant-based meal.
What If I Don’t Have Hoisin Sauce?
No problem! Hoisin sauce adds a sweet and savory depth, but it’s not essential. You could enhance the sauce’s flavor by adding a little extra brown sugar or a splash of barbecue sauce instead.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the beef and sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet, and then toss in the freshly cooked noodles to keep them from getting mushy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
