Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are a tasty mix of warm, chewy noodles and seasoned ground beef. It’s a quick and filling dish that’s perfect for dinner!
One of my favorite parts? The sauce really packs a punch! I could eat it every night and still not get tired of it. Pair it with some veggies, and you’re all set! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These are classic for this dish, but you can use rice noodles, udon, or even zoodles for a healthier twist. I enjoy the texture of egg noodles, but feel free to experiment with what you have on hand!
Ground Beef: If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works great. You could also use ground chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian take. I’ve used turkey before and loved the lighter flavor!
Green Onions: Besides flavor, they add a lovely crunch. If you don’t have them, chives or diced onions can work too. I always keep extra green onions on hand for garnishing, they add a fresh touch!
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, tamari is a fantastic substitute. I often blend a bit of low-sodium soy sauce with some coconut aminos for a different taste that’s still savory.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a distinct flavor. If you’re out, consider using olive oil or peanut oil, but sesame oil really enhances the dish. It’s my go-to!
How Do I Enhance the Flavors with Garlic and Ginger?
Garlic and ginger are key aromatics that give this dish its charm. Mince them finely so their flavors seep into the dish effectively. Here’s how to prepare them:
- For garlic, remove the skin, smash a clove under a knife to make mincing easier, and chop finely.
- With ginger, peel it with a spoon for easy removal, then slice into thin coins before dicing. This will help release its strong flavor.
- Cook them right after browning the beef; this ensures they don’t burn and keeps their aroma intact.
Using fresh garlic and ginger makes a big difference; trust me, it’s worth it!
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz. egg noodles (or any noodles of choice)
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 3 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes to prepare this delicious dish. This includes around 10 minutes for prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking the egg noodles according to the instructions on the package. Once they’re cooked, drain them well and set them aside for later. This will ensure they’re ready to mix in with the beef!
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula. Keep stirring until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Garlic and Ginger:
After the beef is cooked through, pour off any excess fat from the skillet. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir them in and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until you can smell that yummy fragrance. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Mix in Sauce Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Mix everything well, so the beef is coated in a delicious sauce. If you want some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes to taste. Yum!
5. Combine Noodles and Beef:
Add the cooked noodles to the beef mixture in the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce. This step is where everything comes together beautifully!
6. Add Green Onions:
Stir in the chopped green onions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until everything is heated through and the onions are slightly softened. Make sure to enjoy the bright, fresh smell!
7. Season and Serve:
Finally, season with salt and pepper to your taste. Serve the noodles hot, garnished with sesame seeds and extra green onions on top. Enjoy your delicious Mongolian ground beef noodles!
Can I Use a Different Type of Noodle?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are great for this dish, you can use other noodles like spaghetti, rice noodles, or even whole wheat noodles. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodle you choose!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef for Another Meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. If using turkey, be mindful that it may result in a slightly drier dish, so adding a little extra sesame oil or soy sauce might be beneficial.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
For extra heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even some sliced fresh chili peppers. You could also serve it with a side of sriracha for those who like to spice things up individually!
