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Savory Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

Mongolian ground beef noodles - featured image

A quick and easy dinner recipe featuring caramelized ground beef tossed with egg noodles in a sweet-savory Mongolian-inspired sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and packed with bold flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) hoisin sauce
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 8 oz (225 g) egg noodles or spaghetti
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) of egg noodles or spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside. Toss with a drizzle of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup (60 ml) hoisin sauce, 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if using. Set aside.
  3. Cook the ground beef: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and slightly crispy around the edges, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Add aromatics: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  5. Combine sauce and beef: Pour the sauce mixture over the beef. Stir thoroughly to coat the meat evenly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of water to loosen.
  6. Toss noodles with beef: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Using tongs or two forks, toss until noodles are coated in the sauce and mixed well with the beef. Cook together for another 1-2 minutes to marry the flavors.
  7. Finish and garnish: Remove from heat. Stir in sliced green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more soy sauce or a pinch of sugar if needed.
  8. Serve hot: Dish out immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

If beef releases too much liquid, increase heat to evaporate moisture and achieve caramelization. Avoid overcrowding the pan by cooking beef in batches if needed. Toss noodles with sesame oil after draining to prevent sticking. Adjust sweetness by adding sugar last to balance flavors. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and use rice noodles. Variations include using ground turkey, chicken, tofu, or adding vegetables and spices like fresh chili or Sriracha.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mongolian beef, ground beef noodles, easy dinner, weeknight recipe, savory noodles, hoisin sauce, quick meal