Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe

Introduction to Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal, Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles might just become your new favorite. This easy dish combines tender noodles with savory ground beef, infused with a rich, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce. It’s a great recipe for busy weeknights, offering big flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking to impress family and friends with an Asian-inspired dish, this recipe has you covered.

What Makes Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Special?

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles stand out due to their perfectly balanced flavors. The combination of soy sauce, hoisin, and brown sugar creates a harmony of sweet and savory, while the optional red pepper flakes add a gentle heat. This dish provides a great alternative to takeout, giving you control over the ingredients and customization. The simplicity of ground beef combined with linguine or other pasta adds heartiness, making it both filling and flavorful. It’s a delicious and affordable meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

To make this flavorful dish, here are the essential ingredients you’ll need. The quantities are flexible depending on taste, and I’ll also suggest some swaps if needed.

• 1 lb ground beef – lean ground beef is best for a lighter dish
• 5 cloves garlic, minced – adds depth and aromatics
• 1/3 cup brown sugar – for that signature Mongolian sweetness
• 1/4 cup beef broth – helps develop the sauce’s rich flavor
• 1/3 cup soy sauce – the savory base; use low sodium if preferred
• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce – adds a layer of sweetness and umami
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger – for warmth and subtle spice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper – enhances overall flavor
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) – add for a spicy kick
• 10 oz linguine – you can use other long pasta like spaghetti or rice noodles for a gluten-free version
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – to thicken the sauce
• 2 tablespoons water – to dissolve the cornstarch
• 4 green onions, sliced – for garnish and a pop of freshness

this RECIPE

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Here’s a list of kitchen tools that will make cooking Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles quick and easy:

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan for browning the beef
• Knife and cutting board for chopping garlic and green onions
• Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredients
• Small bowl for mixing cornstarch
• Tongs or large spoon for tossing the noodles

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the linguine (or your preferred pasta) in a large pot of salted, boiling water. Cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter. Once the beef is fully cooked, reduce the heat to medium.

3. Add Garlic and Aromatics

Next, add the minced garlic to the browned beef and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together well to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add this mixture to the skillet and stir it into the sauce. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

5. Combine with Noodles

Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked and drained linguine to the skillet. Toss the noodles thoroughly in the sauce until fully coated. Allow the noodles and beef to simmer together for 2-3 minutes so the flavors can fully absorb into the pasta.

6. Garnish and Serve

To finish, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top of the dish for a fresh, vibrant garnish. Serve the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles hot and enjoy every savory bite!

Tips for Perfect Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

• Use lean ground beef to avoid an overly greasy sauce. Draining the fat will also help keep the dish lighter.
• Balance the sweetness and savory by adjusting the amount of brown sugar or soy sauce to your liking.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente pasta will hold up better in the sauce and create a more satisfying texture.
• Control the heat by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch and increase as needed.

Substitutions and Variations

• Swap the protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Try different noodles: If you’re gluten-free, rice noodles or gluten-free pasta work perfectly in this dish.
• Add vegetables: Toss in stir-fried veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it low-carb: For a healthier twist, try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Serving Suggestions

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles can be served on their own as a complete meal, but they also pair well with:

• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, bok choy, or green beans are great sides.
• Fresh salad: A simple cucumber or mixed greens salad with a light dressing balances the richness of the dish.
• Rice: You can also serve the beef mixture over a bed of steamed white or brown rice for a different twist.

How to Store and Reheat Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

Storing leftovers: Place any leftover noodles in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating tips: Reheat the noodles on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to rehydrate the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid drying out the noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the noodles: Make sure to cook your pasta to al dente, as it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce.
• Using too much fat: Always drain excess fat from the ground beef, or the dish may become greasy.
• Not thickening the sauce properly: Ensure the cornstarch mixture is fully dissolved before adding it to the skillet, and let the sauce simmer until it thickens.

FAQs about Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even egg noodles would work well in this dish.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the beef and sauce ahead of time, then cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve. Just reheat the sauce and toss with freshly cooked noodles.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute the linguine with gluten-free pasta or rice noodles.

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