These Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are a tasty way to whip up dinner in no time! With tender noodles and tasty beef, this dish is sure to be a hit.
It’s so simple to make that even I can’t mess it up! Just cook the beef, toss in some veggies, and mix it all with the noodles. Dinner is ready in a flash, and it’s super fun to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: I recommend using spaghetti or udon noodles, but feel free to swap in rice noodles or even whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option. Just adjust cooking times based on your choice.
Ground Beef: While ground beef is the main protein here, you can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. If you’re reducing fat, lean ground turkey works great.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce. Low-sodium soy sauce is a good alternative if you’re watching your salt intake.
Brown Sugar: In a pinch, you can replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that this may slightly change the flavor and sweetness level.
Sesame Oil: If you don’t have sesame oil on hand, try using a little olive oil or canola oil. It won’t have the same nutty flavor, but the dish will still taste good!
How Do I Make Sure My Ground Beef Stays Tender?
Keeping ground beef tender is all about how you cook it. Follow these simple tips:
- Cook the beef over medium-high heat. This helps it brown nicely without becoming tough.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If cooking a lot, do it in batches to ensure even cooking.
- As the beef cooks, use a spatula to break it apart gently. Avoid stirring too much, as it can firm up.
- Once it’s browned, avoid overcooking it. Just a few minutes with the garlic and ginger is enough to keep it juicy!
Following these tips will ensure your beef remains tender and delicious, ready to mix nicely with the noodles and sauce!
Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles for Quick Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz spaghetti or udon noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes or chili paste for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish can be prepared in about 15 minutes with another 10 minutes of cooking time, making a total of 25 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once they are ready, drain them and set them aside. If you want, you can toss them with a little oil to keep them from sticking.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and use a spatula to break it apart. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Remember to stir occasionally!
3. Add Flavor:
Once the beef is cooked, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. This will add a fantastic aroma to your dish!
4. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, and water until the sugar fully dissolves. Pour this sauce over the beef mixture in the skillet, stirring to combine everything. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked noodles and sliced green onions to the skillet. Toss everything together so the noodles are evenly coated with that tasty sauce. Heat through for an extra minute or so!
6. Finish and Serve:
Drizzle the sesame oil over the noodles and toss again. Now it’s ready to serve! Plate the noodles and sprinkle sesame seeds and extra green onions on top. If you like some heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or chili paste too. Enjoy your meal!
This Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles dish is a flavorful treat that packs both savory and sweet bites in every noodle strand. Enjoy your speedy dinner!
FAQ for Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Can I Use Different Noodles for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or udon noodles work great, you can substitute them with rice noodles, whole wheat pasta, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them or warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! You can add red pepper flakes or chili paste during the cooking process to adjust the spiciness to your taste. If you enjoy a kick, feel free to sprinkle some extra on top before serving!
Is There a Way to Make This Dish Healthier?
Yes! To make it healthier, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and add more vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. You could also reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute to lighten it up!
