Imagine this: a weekday evening where you’re craving something rich, satisfying, and quick to make. Enter Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles, a dish that combines the savory, sweet, and tangy flavors of Mongolian beef with the cozy, comforting allure of noodles. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish—a true lifesaver for busy nights. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish has become a weeknight staple in households worldwide. Once you try it, you’ll understand why there are never any leftovers!
Ingredients
For a serving of 4, you’ll need:
- For the Noodles and Beef:
- 8 oz (225g) of lo mein or spaghetti noodles
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 4 green onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- Optional Garnishes:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Additional green onions
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles:
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the noodles according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and beef broth. Whisk until the sugar dissolves. Set aside. - Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat. - Add Aromatics:
Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. - Combine with Sauce:
Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked beef. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. - Add Noodles:
Toss the cooked noodles into the skillet with the beef and sauce. Use tongs to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the noodles are fully coated in the sauce. - Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped green onions (reserving some for garnish) and mix. Serve immediately, topped with sesame seeds and additional green onions if desired.
There you have it—a dish that’s rich in flavor, simple to make, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. The balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors paired with the soft noodles and hearty beef creates a meal that feels indulgent but is easy enough for any weeknight. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or enjoy it on its own; either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is perfect for those nights when you need something quick, delicious, and comforting. The next time you find yourself short on time but craving a home-cooked meal, remember this recipe—it just might become your new go-to!