If you’re looking for a comforting meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, these Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles will quickly become a family favorite. Tender noodles tossed in a savory soy-based sauce with juicy ground beef create a dish that’s both cozy and practical. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights when you want something homemade, flavorful, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
- Quick and easy, ready in about 30 minutes.
- Uses simple pantry staples you probably already have.
- Family-friendly and picky-eater approved.
- Versatile, customize with vegetables, spice, or your favorite noodles.
- Perfect for meal prep or leftovers the next day.
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground beef : Lean ground beef works best, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Noodles : Lo mein, spaghetti, or rice noodles all work. Use gluten-free noodles if needed.
- Soy sauce : Regular or low-sodium. For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos.
- Brown sugar : Adds the signature Mongolian sweetness. Substitute honey or maple syrup.
- Garlic & ginger : Fresh adds bold flavor, but powder works in a pinch.
- Green onions : For garnish and freshness.
- Cornstarch slurry : Helps thicken the sauce to coat the noodles beautifully.
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
- Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
- Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
- Toss in the cooked noodles, stirring until coated.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the noodles, slightly al dente works best since they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger for the most authentic flavor.
- For a glossy sauce, make sure to add the cornstarch slurry while the sauce is simmering.
Variations of Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
- Spicy version: Add chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
- Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for crumbled tofu, tempeh, or extra mushrooms.
- Healthier option: Use zucchini noodles or whole wheat spaghetti.
- Kid-friendly: Use less garlic and add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
- Steamed or stir-fried vegetables (broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy).
- A light cucumber salad with sesame dressing.
- Egg rolls or dumplings for a takeout-inspired spread.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles.
- For meal prep, portion into containers and add fresh green onions right before serving.
Memories Made Around the Table
This recipe always takes me back to cozy weeknights when I needed something hearty but easy to make. The aroma of soy, garlic, and ginger simmering on the stove fills the kitchen with warmth and makes dinnertime feel special, even on the busiest days.
FAQs
Can I make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the beef and sauce ahead, then toss with fresh noodles right before serving.
What’s the best noodle for this recipe?
Lo mein or rice noodles are closest to takeout-style, but spaghetti works well too.
Can I make this recipe healthier or gluten-free?
Absolutely ! swap soy sauce for tamari, use gluten-free noodles, and try ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Final Thoughts & Printable Recipe
These Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are quick, flavorful, and endlessly versatile, the perfect recipe to keep in your weeknight rotation. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for family, or just craving takeout-style comfort food, this dish checks all the boxes. Try it this week, pin it for later, or share it with someone who loves a quick, cozy dinner.
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot
- Strainer
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz noodles (lo mein, spaghetti, or rice noodles) gluten-free if needed
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or substitute honey/maple syrup
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
- 2 tbsp green onions sliced, for garnish
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
- ¼ cup water for sauce base
- 1 tsp sesame seeds optional garnish
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Add garlic and ginger to the beef. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer.
- Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Add cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.