Name: Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 12 oz spaghetti, linguine, or rice noodles (cooked and drained); 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup beef broth (or water); 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry); 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 4 green onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish); Sesame seeds, for garnish

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If you’re craving a quick, flavor-packed dinner that feels like pure comfort in a bowl, these Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles absolutely fit the bill. In just 20 minutes, humble ground beef and simple noodles transform into a savory-sweet masterpiece draped in glossy Mongolian-inspired sauce. Tangle your fork through silky noodles with pops of garlic, ginger, and a luscious, umami-rich glaze — it’s no wonder Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles have become a go-to weeknight hero. You’ll want to add this stunning dish to your recipe rotation after just one bite!

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe leans into pantry staples and just-right seasonings to deliver big taste with minimal effort. Every ingredient, from the aromatics to the finishing touches, plays a key role in making Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles really sing with flavor and color.

Ground beef: Choose 80-85% lean for juicy flavor without being greasy; it forms the hearty base of the dish.
Spaghetti, linguine, or rice noodles: Go with your family’s favorite noodle, or use rice noodles for a gluten-free spin; cooked and drained just until tender.
Vegetable oil or sesame oil: A light layer for stir-frying, but sesame oil adds an extra hit of nutty aroma if you’re feeling fancy.
Garlic, minced: Four cloves bring warmth and bold depth — fresh is best here for fragrant results.
Fresh ginger, grated: A teaspoon brightens the sauce with zippy, citrusy notes; it’s worth grating it fresh if you can.
Low-sodium soy sauce: The backbone of that signature Mongolian flavor, delivering salt and umami without overpowering the other ingredients.
Brown sugar: Brings caramelized sweetness that balances the soy and gives the sauce a beautiful sheen.
Beef broth or water: Adds depth and keeps the sauce perfectly pourable; broth is extra savory while water is lighter.
Hoisin sauce: Adds a hit of complexity and sweetness; it helps nail that irresistibly sticky-sweet glaze.
Cornstarch + water (slurry): Just a touch thickens the sauce to coat every noodle strand luxuriously.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Totally up to your heat preferences! A pinch brings gentle warmth.
Green onions, sliced: Their crunchy bite and grassy notes finish the dish with freshness and color — don’t skip!
Sesame seeds (for garnish): Sprinkle on right at the end for nutty crunch and an extra pop of visual flair.

How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by cooking your chosen noodles according to their package instructions. Make sure they’re just al dente — you want them to soak up that beautiful Mongolian sauce later, not turn mushy. Once they’re drained, set them aside, ready to unite with the stir-fried beef.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat your oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart as it cooks, letting it get beautifully browned and fragrant. If there’s more fat than you’d like, take a moment to drain any excess before moving on.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

With the beef sizzling, stir in your minced garlic and grated fresh ginger. Let them cook just until the kitchen fills with their vibrant aroma, about 30 seconds — that’s when you know they’re releasing all their good stuff into the pan.

Step 4: Make the Mongolian Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together your soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and hoisin sauce. Pour this mixture straight into the skillet with your beef. Instantly, those classic Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles flavors come to life as the sauce bubbles and simmers.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Mix your cornstarch and water together, then stir that slurry into the skillet. Let everything simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring gently, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy and clingy — this is the magic moment that sets Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles apart.

Step 6: Toss Noodles and Finish with Green Onions

Add your cooked noodles and most of the sliced green onions to the skillet. Toss and stir until everything is coated in that deeply savory sauce, making sure every noodle gets its fair share of flavor. If you love a little heat, this is the time to sprinkle in those red pepper flakes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Take the pan off the heat. To serve, scatter the reserved green onions and sesame seeds over the top. Serve up giant forkfuls right away while everything is hot and the kitchen still smells like a sweet-salty dream.

How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

Garnishes

This dish truly shines with its fresh and crunchy garnishes. Top your bowl with a shower of sliced green onions and a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Both add a pop of color and a depth of texture that takes every bite of Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles to the next level.

Side Dishes

While Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are truly satisfying on their own, you can round out your meal with simple sides like steamed broccoli or snap peas, a light cucumber salad, or even crunchy Asian slaw. These additions bring freshness and balance, letting your main dish be the star.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fresh twist, try serving Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles in individual bowls, piled high and twirled into neat nests, or use chopsticks for an authentic touch. If you’re entertaining, present the noodles family-style on a big platter surrounded by bowls of extra toppings — everyone gets to create their perfect bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles keep well! Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a perfect grab-and-go lunch the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles for up to 2 months, though the noodles may soften a bit upon thawing. For best results, cool quickly, pack into freezer-safe containers, and press a piece of parchment down to help prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring every so often. This brings the noodles back to life while keeping everything silky and delicious — top with fresh green onions if you have them!

FAQs

Can I use a different protein in Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?

Absolutely! If you want to change it up, swap in ground chicken, turkey, or pork. The sauce pairs beautifully with all sorts of ground meats, so feel free to use whatever you have on hand.

What’s the best noodle type for this dish?

The recipe is flexible! Spaghetti and linguine give a classic, satisfying chew, while rice noodles are great for a gluten-free version. You could even try udon or soba noodles for a new twist on Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles.

How spicy is this recipe?

The base dish is mild, but a sprinkle of red pepper flakes brings a gentle kick. To amp up the heat, add more pepper or even a squirt of Sriracha — tailor it to your own spice tolerance.

Can I make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is fantastic for meal prep! Cook everything as directed, cool quickly, and store in the fridge. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers extra delicious.

How can I add more vegetables?

Don’t hesitate to toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots during the last few minutes of cooking. Not only do they taste great, but they also add gorgeous color and extra nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Once you try Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles, you’ll see why this recipe wins hearts any night of the week. Cozy, speedy, and wildly flavorful, it’s the kind of dinner worth sharing — so grab your chopsticks and let those noodles bring joy to your table!