Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
This Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, this dish makes a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. It’s versatile enough to suit various occasions, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. The tender ground beef, enriched with garlic and ginger, pairs perfectly with noodles, making it a standout choice for any dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavorful Sauce: The combination of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and ginger creates a rich and delicious flavor profile.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the noodles or add vegetables to customize the dish to your liking.
- Easily Scalable: Perfect for feeding a crowd or adjusting for smaller servings without hassle.
- Kid-Friendly: The sweet and savory taste appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is crucial. Here are some essential items you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling noodles
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the ground beef and helps develop flavor.
- Whisk: Using a whisk helps create a smooth slurry when mixing cornstarch and water.
Ingredients
This quick and tasty dish features tender ground beef coated in a sweet, savory sauce with garlic, ginger, and hoisin flavors. Tossed with noodles for an easy 30-minute meal.
For the Beef Mixture
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Noodles
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine noodles
For Thickening the Sauce
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
For Garnish
- 4 green onions (sliced)
How to Make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, which takes about 5 minutes. Add the grated ginger and minced garlic during the last 2 minutes of cooking for added flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
While the beef is cooking, bring water to a boil in a pot. Cook the linguine or fettuccine noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them and set aside.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add brown sugar, low-sodium beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the beef mixture in the skillet. Bring it to a simmer until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Toss in Noodles
Add your cooked noodles directly into the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss everything together to ensure that all noodles are evenly coated in that delicious sauce. Allow it to sit for another 2-3 minutes so that the noodles soak up more flavor.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles garnished with sliced green onions for an added touch of freshness! Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles make a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want a simple meal or a more elaborate presentation, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve the noodles directly from the skillet for a casual family meal. This allows everyone to help themselves and enjoy the dish warm.
Individual Bowls
- Dish out individual portions in bowls for a more formal setting. Top each bowl with extra green onions for added color and flavor.
With a Side of Vegetables
- Accompany the noodles with a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed bell peppers to add some crunch and nutrition to the meal.
As a Lunch Meal Prep
- Pack leftovers in meal prep containers for an easy lunch option throughout the week. The flavors will deepen as they sit!
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Add fresh cilantro or basil on top of each serving for an aromatic touch that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
With Additional Sauces
- Provide soy sauce or chili sauce on the side so guests can customize their level of flavor and heat.
How to Perfect Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
To achieve the best results with your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, keep these tips in mind. They will help you elevate this quick meal into something extraordinary.
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Use lean ground beef: This helps keep the dish healthier by reducing excess fat, allowing the flavors of the sauces to shine through.
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Fresh ingredients are key: Using fresh garlic and ginger enhances flavor significantly compared to pre-packaged versions.
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Do not overcook noodles: Cook them just until al dente to avoid mushy noodles that can ruin the texture of your dish.
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Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar according to your taste preference; this will personalize your sauce.
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Let it rest: Allowing your noodles to sit in the sauce for a few minutes helps them absorb all those delicious flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Pairing your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas cooked quickly in sesame oil adds freshness.
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Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar provides a refreshing contrast to the savory noodles.
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Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat add crunch and are always a crowd-pleaser alongside Asian-inspired dishes.
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Fried Rice: Serve fried rice loaded with peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs for an extra hearty addition to your meal.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the flavors well, adding warmth and depth without overpowering the main dish.
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Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp or tofu offer a light and refreshing bite that pairs nicely with noodles.
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Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing brings brightness and texture, balancing out the richness of beef.
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Kimchi: For those who enjoy bold flavors, serving kimchi adds spice and tanginess that can elevate any meal experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using the wrong noodles: Opt for linguine or fettuccine to ensure the sauce clings well. Avoid thin noodles that may break easily.
- Overcooking the beef: Brown the ground beef just until cooked through to maintain tenderness. Overcooked beef can become tough and dry.
- Neglecting to drain excess fat: Always drain excess fat after browning the beef. This helps keep your dish from becoming greasy.
- Skipping the cornstarch slurry: The slurry thickens your sauce and helps it coat the noodles better. Don’t skip this step for optimal texture.
- Not letting noodles absorb flavor: Allowing the tossed noodles to sit in the sauce for a few minutes enhances their taste. Skipping this step can lead to bland noodles.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing it tightly.
Freezing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- For best results, freeze without green onions, adding them fresh when reheating.
Reheating Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles that might help you while making this dish.
What goes well with Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
You can serve these noodles with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad to balance the meal.
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option while keeping similar cooking times.
How spicy is Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
The spice level depends on whether you include red pepper flakes. Feel free to adjust according to your preference!
Can I make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it ahead and reheat when ready to serve. Just follow storage instructions for optimal taste.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the sauce’s sweetness. Give this delightful dish a try, and enjoy its comforting flavors!
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles are a quick and delightful dish that brings together tender ground beef, savory sauces, and perfectly cooked noodles in just 30 minutes. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying meal that everyone will love. The rich combination of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates an irresistible flavor profile that can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or noodle types. Whether you’re serving it family-style from the skillet or in individual bowls garnished with fresh green onions, this comforting dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine noodles
- 4 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 4 green onions (sliced)
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef (about 5 minutes). Add ginger and garlic during the last 2 minutes.
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions; drain.
- Remove excess fat from the skillet and add brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry; add to the skillet and simmer until thickened (2-3 minutes).
- Toss cooked noodles into the skillet and mix well. Let sit for another few minutes to absorb flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
