There's nothing quite like the savory, slightly sweet aroma of Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles wafting through your kitchen. This dish combines tender noodles, flavorful ground beef, and a luscious sauce with soy, garlic, and ginger—perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal.

I discovered this recipe during a hectic week when I needed something fast but still packed with flavor. Little did I know it would become a staple in my household! Ready to make your own? Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare. From start to finish, you’ll have a steaming plate of noodles in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those days when time is of the essence.

Second, this recipe uses affordable pantry staples, making it budget-friendly without sacrificing taste. Think soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and ground beef—all items you likely already have on hand.

Third, it’s a one-pan wonder. With minimal prep and clean-up, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy the meal with your family.

Finally, the flavors are simply irresistible. The combination of savory soy sauce, caramelized brown sugar, and a hint of spice creates a balanced and comforting dish that everyone will devour.

So, grab your skillet, and let’s get started!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect mix of flavors. Here’s a closer look:

Ground Beef: This forms the hearty base of the dish. I recommend using 85% lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor and minimal grease.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish from becoming overly salty. It provides the essential umami flavor.
Brown Sugar: This adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements. Light brown sugar works best, but dark brown sugar can add a richer depth.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger are key to achieving the signature Mongolian flavor. Grate or mince them finely for the best results.
Noodles: Lo mein or spaghetti are excellent choices. Their firm texture holds up well against the rich sauce. Rice noodles can work too for a gluten-free option.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce. A quick slurry ensures the sauce clings beautifully to the noodles.

No special equipment is needed—just a trusty skillet or wok and a large pot for boiling noodles!

How To Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

Making this dish is as easy as 1-2-3. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Cook the Noodles
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of vegetable oil. Cook the ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Once browned, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and a dash of chili flakes for some heat. Simmer the mixture for a couple of minutes.
Thicken the Sauce
Mix cornstarch with a bit of water to make a slurry. Stir it into the sauce and let it thicken until it coats the back of a spoon.
Combine Everything
Toss the cooked noodles and browned ground beef into the skillet. Mix well until the noodles are evenly coated in the glossy sauce.

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a touch of freshness and crunch!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish!), here’s how to store them:

Refrigerate: Place the noodles in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freeze: This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

To reheat, warm the noodles in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the noodles soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly versatile, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!

Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and load up on veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and broccoli.
Spice It Up: Add more chili flakes, or drizzle sriracha over the top for extra heat.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the noodles for rice noodles and use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Add Veggies: Stir in shredded carrots, snap peas, or baby spinach for a nutrient boost.

The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!

Conclusion

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With its quick cook time, simple ingredients, and customizable nature, it’s bound to become a regular on your dinner table. So, grab your chopsticks (or fork!) and dig into this delicious bowl of noodles—you won’t regret it!