Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

This easy-to-make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles recipe is a flavorful combination of sweet and spicy flavors with tender noodles. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and tastes better than takeout! Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a quick meal for yourself, these Mongolian noodles will satisfy your cravings and elevate your dining experience.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweet and spicy flavors create a deliciously balanced taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the recipe by adding vegetables or adjusting the sweetness to suit your preferences.
• Better Than Takeout: Enjoy restaurant-quality Mongolian noodles at home without the hassle of takeout.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe serves eight, making it perfect for family gatherings or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Having the right equipment on hand ensures everything comes together perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking pot
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning ground beef evenly and mixing ingredients without spilling.
• Cooking pot: Essential for boiling noodles efficiently while keeping them perfectly al dente.

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 4 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup brown sugar (reduce to ⅓ or ¼ cup for less sweetness)
• ½ cup beef broth
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce (low-sodium, if available)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Noodles

• 10 ounces noodles (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

For Thickening Sauce

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish

• 4 medium green onions, sliced

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How to Make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet with high sides, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
Add the minced ginger and garlic during the last 2 minutes of browning. Be sure to break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the ground beef is cooking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Note: Do not salt the pasta water, as the sauce is already salty. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Once the ground beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from it and return it to the skillet. Add soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in water to create a slurry. Pour this slurry into the skillet and stir well. Bring this mixture to a low boil and cook until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine the Noodles and Sauce

Add your cooked and drained noodles directly to the beef mixture in the skillet. Stir thoroughly to ensure that all noodles are well coated with tasty sauce. Allow them to sit in the sauce for a few minutes so they can absorb those wonderful flavors.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with sliced green onions for freshness before serving hot. Enjoy this delightful sweet and savory noodle dish that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

Serving Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your meal enjoyable and visually appealing.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Green Onions: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a pop of color and a fresh flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty taste and crunch, enhancing the dish’s texture.

Pair with a Refreshing Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad balances the dish’s sweetness and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage and carrots complements the rich flavors of the noodles.

Serve with Additional Sauces

• Chili Sauce: Offer chili sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick.
• Soy Sauce: A small dish of soy sauce can be a great addition for anyone wanting more umami flavor.

How to Perfect Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

To achieve the best Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, consider these helpful tips.

• Use High-Quality Beef: Selecting lean ground beef ensures a healthier dish while maintaining flavor.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: This texture helps them hold up better when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Tailor the amount of brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
• Add Fresh Vegetables: Incorporating vegetables not only adds nutrition but also enhances flavor and color.
• Let Flavors Meld: Allowing the noodles to sit in the sauce for a few minutes before serving boosts the overall taste.

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Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

Complementing your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles with delicious sides can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Steamed Broccoli: This healthy side provides a nice crunch and bright color, balancing out the noodles’ flavors.
2. Fried Rice: A classic choice that’s easy to prepare, adding more texture and heartiness to your meal.
3. Egg Rolls: These crispy treats are perfect for snacking while enjoying your main dish.
4. Miso Soup: A light soup that adds warmth and depth, perfect as a starter alongside noodles.
5. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls are refreshing and light, providing a contrast to the rich noodles.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Their tangy flavor cuts through the sweetness, offering a delightful taste combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the Noodles: If you cook the noodles for too long, they can become mushy. Follow the package instructions carefully and aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Using Regular Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce can make the dish too salty. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness without losing flavor.
• Skipping the Ginger and Garlic: These ingredients add depth to your dish. Don’t skip them; instead, add them just before finishing browning the beef for maximum flavor.
• Not Adjusting Sweetness: The amount of brown sugar can be adjusted based on personal preference. Start with less and taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
• Neglecting Vegetables: Adding vegetables like broccoli or carrots enhances nutrition and texture. Incorporate them into your skillet for a heartier meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread noodles in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Place noodles in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option while still enjoying great flavors in your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase spiciness in your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, add more red pepper flakes or top with sriracha before serving.

What kind of noodles work best?

You can use linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti. Choose whatever noodle you prefer for your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding veggies like bell peppers or snap peas can enhance both nutrition and flavor in your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is an appealing dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its sweet and savory sauce coating tender noodles, it’s sure to satisfy. Plus, this recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with different proteins or vegetables to suit your taste!