Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe

Introduction

There’s something magical about a dish that combines tender ground beef, chewy noodles, and a rich, savory Mongolian-style sauce. The irresistible blend of flavors in Mongolian ground beef noodles makes it a standout meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, preparing for a busy week ahead, or just craving something hearty and delicious, this dish is the perfect solution.

Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it also brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen without the hassle. Imagine enjoying the savory richness of ground beef noodle recipes, elevated by the sweet and salty depth of Mongolian sauce, all in under 30 minutes. This is a recipe you’ll turn to again and again, whether you’re using the instant pot beef and noodles method or cooking it on the stove. Perfect for those busy nights or meal prep sessions, this dish is as simple as it is satisfying.

Get ready for a delightful experience that brings bold flavors and comfort in every bite—without the complexity or the time commitment.

What Are Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?

Mongolian cuisine is known for its bold, hearty flavors that combine a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami. At the heart of many Mongolian dishes is a rich, soy-based sauce enhanced by ingredients like ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. The distinctive sweetness from brown sugar or hoisin sauce, combined with the saltiness of soy sauce, creates a depth of flavor that is both comforting and exciting. This blend of flavors makes Mongolian dishes incredibly satisfying, whether they’re served with beef, chicken, or vegetables.

How This Dish Differs from Traditional Mongolian Beef

While traditional Mongolian beef often features strips of steak cooked in a wok with vegetables, Mongolian ground beef noodles offer a quicker, more accessible take on this beloved flavor profile. Instead of steak, this dish uses ground beef, making it more budget-friendly and easier to prepare. The ground beef takes less time to cook and absorbs the sauce more quickly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Unlike its traditional counterpart, which typically involves stir-frying beef and vegetables together, Mongolian ground beef noodles bring together the rich sauce with soft, chewy noodles, creating a one-pot, comforting meal.

The Use of Ground Beef Instead of Steak for Convenience

One of the key differences between this dish and traditional Mongolian beef is the use of ground beef. Ground beef cooks much faster than whole cuts of beef, and it’s often more affordable, making this a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Additionally, using ground beef eliminates the need for slicing steak into thin strips, further reducing preparation time. The result is a delicious and hearty meal that doesn’t require hours of preparation or specialty ingredients.

Related Dishes to Try

If you enjoy the flavors of Mongolian ground beef noodles, you may want to explore other beef and noodle recipes that provide similar comforting elements. Here are a few related dishes you might like:

• Braised Beef Noodles: Slow-cooked beef in a rich, savory broth served with noodles. The braising process makes the beef incredibly tender, and the sauce soaks into the noodles, creating a deeply satisfying dish.
• Slow Cooker Beef Noodles: This version of beef noodles uses a slow cooker to tenderize the beef over several hours, infusing the noodles with all the flavors of the beef and sauce. It’s a great hands-off recipe for busy days.
• Beef Tips and Noodles Crock Pot: Like the slow cooker beef noodles, this dish features beef tips that cook in a savory sauce. It’s an easy, low-maintenance recipe that’s perfect for meal prep or a comforting dinner after a long day.

These related dishes all offer similar flavors and comfort, but each brings its own twist to the beef-and-noodle combination. Whether you prefer the slow-cooked richness of braised beef or the quick and easy convenience of Mongolian ground beef noodles, there’s something for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy—Ready in Under 30 Minutes

One of the best things about Mongolian ground beef noodles is how quickly it comes together. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a full meal on the table that’s both flavorful and satisfying. The combination of ground beef, noodles, and a savory Mongolian sauce cooks up fast, making it the ideal weeknight dinner when time is short but you still want something delicious.

Budget-Friendly, Made with Pantry Staples

This recipe is incredibly cost-effective, relying on ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. With ground beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and a few other staples, you can create a dish that’s not only tasty but also affordable. You won’t need to break the bank for a flavorful meal, making this a perfect choice for those on a budget or looking for ways to stretch their grocery dollars.

Family-Friendly, with Customizable Spice Levels

Mongolian ground beef noodles are a great option for families, especially because the spice level is entirely customizable. While the traditional recipe might include a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, you can adjust the spiciness to suit the tastes of everyone at your table. Whether you prefer it mild or want to kick up the heat, this dish can be tailored to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, kids love the tender beef and noodles!

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

If you’re looking to get ahead with your meals, Mongolian ground beef noodles are ideal for meal prep. The recipe makes plenty of servings, and the leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply reheat and enjoy the same delicious flavors without any extra work. You can even double the recipe for a week’s worth of lunches or dinners, making it a convenient and time-saving choice for busy schedules.

Comparison with Other Popular Beef Noodle Recipes

When comparing Mongolian ground beef noodles to other beef-and-noodle dishes, it’s easy to see why it stands out. Here’s how it measures up:

• Old Fashioned Beef and Noodles Recipe: While both dishes feature beef and noodles, the old fashioned beef and noodles recipe typically calls for slow-cooked beef in a rich gravy-like sauce. It’s comforting but requires more time and effort to prepare. On the other hand, Mongolian ground beef noodles are faster to make, lighter in sauce, and offer a more distinct sweet-savory flavor profile that’s a bit different from the classic beef and gravy combo.
• French Onion Beef and Noodles: Another beloved beef noodle dish, French onion beef and noodles often incorporates caramelized onions and a deep, savory flavor. While both this recipe and Mongolian ground beef noodles have a beef base, the Mongolian version tends to be more vibrant with its soy sauce and brown sugar, while the French onion version leans more into the richness of the onion and beef broth combination.

In comparison, Mongolian ground beef noodles offer a quicker, more accessible recipe with a unique flavor that balances sweetness, saltiness, and a hint of spice. Whether you’re craving a comforting old-fashioned beef noodle dish or a new take with Mongolian-inspired flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Ingredients Needed

This recipe avoids pork, bacon, wine, alcohol, beer, and similar ingredients, focusing instead on fresh and pantry-friendly staples.

How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles (Step-by-Step Guide)

This simple and delicious recipe will have your family asking for seconds! Follow these easy steps for a flavorful Mongolian-inspired dish in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

• Boil egg noodles in a large pot of salted water until al dente (about 7-9 minutes).
• Drain the noodles and set them aside. You can toss them with a small drizzle of oil to prevent sticking if you prefer.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
• Drain excess fat if necessary, leaving a small amount for flavor.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
• Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the cornstarch is fully incorporated, creating a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Aromatics

• Add the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger to the skillet with the cooked ground beef.
• Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 5: Combine Everything

• Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked ground beef in the skillet.
• Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
• Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are fully coated in the rich sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Top with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an optional spicy kick.
• Serve hot and enjoy this savory, comforting meal!

This step-by-step guide ensures your Mongolian ground beef noodles come out perfect every time—quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!

Cooking Methods: Instant Pot & Slow Cooker Adaptations

If you’re looking for even more convenience, the Mongolian ground beef noodles recipe can be adapted to either an Instant Pot or a Slow Cooker. These methods save time and make cleanup even easier, while still delivering that rich, comforting flavor.

Instant Pot Beef and Noodles Version

For a quicker, hands-off approach, the Instant Pot is your best friend. Here’s how you can make this recipe in a fraction of the time:

1. Sauté the Beef:
   • Use the sauté function on the Instant Pot to brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. This step should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Sauce Ingredients and Noodles:
   • Once the beef is browned, add the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, cornstarch, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to the pot. Stir well to combine.
   • Add the uncooked noodles directly to the Instant Pot, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce mixture.
3. Pressure Cook:
   • Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 3 minutes.
   • Once the timer goes off, use the quick release to release the pressure.
4. Final Touches:
   • Open the lid, give everything a stir, and allow the sauce to thicken slightly as the noodles absorb the flavor.
   • Garnish with green onions and red pepper flakes before serving.

The Instant Pot version is a great way to enjoy Mongolian ground beef noodles quickly with minimal effort!

Slow Cooker Beef Noodles Version

If you have a bit more time and prefer the slow cooker method, here’s how you can make Mongolian ground beef noodles with ease:

1. Brown the Beef:
   • Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add to Slow Cooker:
   • Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker and add the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, cornstarch, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on Low:
   • Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and tenderizes the beef beautifully.
4. Add Cooked Noodles:
   • About 15 minutes before serving, cook the noodles separately and add them to the slow cooker. Stir to coat the noodles in the flavorful sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Top with green onions and red pepper flakes for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!

The slow cooker method requires a bit more time, but the end result is just as satisfying, with rich, tender beef and perfectly cooked noodles. Plus, the ease of letting your slow cooker do all the work makes this a great option for busy days.

Whether you choose the Instant Pot or Slow Cooker method, both adaptations ensure you get a flavorful, comforting meal with minimal effort. The key is letting the ingredients combine and soak up all the delicious flavors!

Tips for the Best Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

To make sure your Mongolian ground beef noodles turn out perfectly every time, here are some key tips to elevate the flavor and texture:

1. Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic for Authentic Flavor

Fresh ginger and garlic bring a level of brightness and depth that powdered or pre-minced versions just can’t replicate. Grate or finely mince fresh ginger, and use fresh garlic for that vibrant, aromatic flavor that forms the base of the Mongolian sauce. This will make your dish taste much more authentic and aromatic.

2. Adjust the Sauce’s Sweetness and Saltiness to Taste

Everyone has different preferences when it comes to the balance of sweet and salty. If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add a bit more brown sugar or hoisin sauce. On the other hand, if you like it saltier, a splash more soy sauce will do the trick. Taste the sauce before adding the noodles, and adjust the seasoning until you’re happy with the flavor profile.

3. Opt for Wider Noodles Like Egg Noodles for Better Sauce Absorption

While you can use any noodle type for this dish, egg noodles are particularly great because their slightly wider surface area helps absorb the savory sauce better. The texture of egg noodles works perfectly with the thick sauce, making every bite extra flavorful. You can also use other noodles like udon or wide rice noodles if you prefer.

4. Let the Beef Caramelize Slightly for a Richer Taste

Allow the ground beef to brown and caramelize a bit before adding the aromatics. This extra step creates a deeper, more complex flavor in the beef, which enhances the overall richness of the dish. Don’t rush this process—let the beef sit in the pan for a minute or two before stirring to develop that rich, golden-brown color.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your Mongolian ground beef noodles are packed with flavor, the perfect balance of sweet and savory, and have a satisfying texture that everyone will love.

Serving Suggestions

While Mongolian ground beef noodles are already a complete and satisfying dish on their own, adding a few sides can elevate the meal and create a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some great serving ideas:

1. Serve with a Side of Stir-Fried Vegetables

Pairing your noodles with stir-fried vegetables adds color, crunch, and extra nutrients to the meal. Vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas work especially well. Stir-fry them with a bit of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil for a perfect complement to the savory Mongolian beef.

2. Pair with Steamed Rice for a Heartier Meal

If you’re looking for a more filling meal, serve your Mongolian ground beef noodles alongside a bowl of steamed rice. The rice helps balance the flavors and texture of the noodles while soaking up any extra sauce. It’s the perfect addition if you want to make the dish even heartier.

3. Add a Simple Cucumber Salad for a Refreshing Contrast

A light and refreshing cucumber salad provides a crisp contrast to the rich, savory noodles. You can quickly prepare a simple salad with thinly sliced cucumbers, a dash of rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. The cool, tangy flavor complements the warm noodles and adds a refreshing element to the meal.

These serving suggestions will not only enhance the taste and texture of the dish but also create a more balanced meal with variety and freshness. Enjoy!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Whether you’re meal prepping or simply have leftovers, here are the best ways to store and reheat your Mongolian ground beef noodles while keeping them fresh and flavorful:

1. Refrigeration

• Store in an airtight container: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Pro Tip: When storing, you can keep the noodles and beef sauce mixed together, or store them separately to prevent the noodles from absorbing too much sauce.

2. Freezing

• Freeze for up to 3 months: If you want to store the dish for a longer period, you can freeze the Mongolian ground beef noodles. Place the noodles and sauce in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bags. When freezing, remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Pro Tip: If you’re freezing the noodles and sauce separately, it’ll be easier to reheat and maintain the best texture when thawed.

3. Reheating

• Warm in a skillet: To maintain the flavor and moisture, reheat your noodles in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent the noodles from drying out.
• Microwave: If you’re in a rush, you can microwave the noodles in short bursts, stirring in between, with a small amount of broth to ensure the noodles stay moist.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Mongolian ground beef noodles for days to come without sacrificing quality.

Variations & Substitutions

This Mongolian ground beef noodles recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Here are some great options to make the dish your own:

1. Protein Options

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a lighter protein, you can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Both options will absorb the rich flavors of the sauce and still provide a satisfying meal with fewer calories.
• Beef Tips or Stew Meat: For a heartier version, consider using beef tips or cubed stew meat instead of ground beef. You can sear and cook these in the sauce until tender, giving the dish a more luxurious feel.

2. Noodle Alternatives

• Ramen: Instead of egg noodles, try ramen noodles for a more traditional Asian touch. Be sure to discard the seasoning packet and use the plain noodles for this dish.
• Udon: For a thicker, chewier noodle, udon noodles are a great option. Their texture holds up beautifully to the sauce.
• Rice Noodles: For a gluten-free option or just a different texture, rice noodles work well in this dish. They’ll absorb the sauce and provide a light, satisfying bite.

3. Gluten-Free

• Tamari instead of Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free version of the recipe, simply swap the regular soy sauce for tamari. It’s a gluten-free alternative that will provide the same depth of umami flavor.
• Gluten-Free Noodles: Use gluten-free noodles like rice noodles or gluten-free egg noodles to keep the entire dish free from gluten. There are several gluten-free noodle options available in most grocery stores, so you can easily find one that suits your preferences.

4. Spice Adjustments

• Add Spice: If you like a bit more heat, consider adding sriracha, chili paste, or fresh chopped chili peppers to the sauce.
• Milder Flavor: For a milder dish, reduce the amount of soy sauce or skip the red pepper flakes and ginger. You can also balance the spice with a bit more brown sugar for extra sweetness.

These variations and substitutions give you the flexibility to create a version of Mongolian ground beef noodles that suits your taste or dietary needs while still keeping the dish flavorful and satisfying.

Nutritional Information (Estimated Per Serving)

Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional content for each serving of Mongolian ground beef noodles. Keep in mind that exact values may vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used:

This dish provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. Adjusting ingredients, such as using leaner beef or a lighter sauce, can help modify the calorie and fat content as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

In conclusion, Mongolian ground beef noodles is a quick, flavorful, and family-friendly dish that combines savory ground beef, hearty noodles, and a rich, sweet-savory sauce. It’s perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or a cozy family dinner. The best part? It’s easy to make and customizable to suit your taste preferences.

We encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the bold flavors of Mongolian cuisine right at home! Once you’ve made it, we’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to leave feedback and share any variations you tried in the comments.

If you’re looking for more delicious beef noodle recipes, consider exploring similar dishes like braised beef noodle soup or French onion beef and noodles. Both offer rich, comforting flavors that will keep your family coming back for more.

Happy cooking!