If you’re looking for a surefire way to win over your family at dinner time, look no further than this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe. Perfect for those busy weeknights, this dish combines savory flavors with a quick prep time, ensuring that you can serve a satisfying meal without a hitch. With its succulent ground beef, tender noodles, and a tangy sauce, it’s an immediate crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about.
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. In just a few simple steps, you’ll whip up a dish that brings the rich tastes of Mongolian cuisine right into your kitchen. Plus, with its customizable ingredients, you can tweak the flavor profiles to match your family’s preferences. Whether you keep it simple with the classic options or explore the delightful variations, Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is sure to be a favorite at your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes minimal effort and time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavors: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that enhances the dish.
- Family-Friendly: Its savory and slightly sweet flavor is appealing for all ages, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
- Customizable: With options for gluten-free noodles or alternative proteins, this recipe can easily cater to various dietary needs.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making this delicious dish, it’s important to prepare your kitchen space. Start by gathering all your ingredients and the following essential tools:
- A large skillet or frying pan for sautéing the beef and vegetables.
- A pot for boiling the noodles.
- Measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
- A cutting board and sharp knife for chopping the onion, carrot, and green onions.
Once you have everything ready, you can start cooking with confidence. Prepare your noodles according to the package instructions while simultaneously preparing the other components. This will help expedite the cooking process and ensure everything is ready at the same time.
Ingredients
- 8 oz noodles (lo mein or spaghetti)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add your choice of noodles—lo mein or spaghetti works best. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until they are tender yet firm to the bite. Once ready, drain the noodles in a colander and set aside. This step ensures the noodles will be fully ready to absorb the flavors once combined with the beef and sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef
Next, heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook the beef until it’s well-browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. It’s important to drain any excess fat that may accumulate, as this will keep the dish from becoming too greasy. Once drained, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of cooking oil. Introduce the finely chopped onion, diced carrot, and minced garlic. Sauté these vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and aromatic. This process not only caramelizes the onions but also allows the garlic to infuse its flavor into the dish.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
While the vegetables are sautéing, mix your sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, ground ginger, and black pepper, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Once your vegetables are sautéed, pour this mixture directly into the skillet with the veggies, allowing them to absorb the rich, savory flavors.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Now, return the prepared ground beef to the skillet. Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and stir everything together. As the contents cook for an additional 2 minutes, you’ll observe the sauce thickening to the perfect consistency, adhering to both the beef and vegetables.
Step 6: Mix in the Noodles
Once the sauce has thickened, it’s time to add the cooked noodles. Carefully toss them into the skillet, ensuring every strand is evenly coated with the delicious sauce. Stir well to combine, and feel free to add a splash of water if the noodles seem too dry—this will help in mixing it all together.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a fresh finish. Serve your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles immediately while they’re still warm. The vibrant colors and delicious aroma will have everyone eagerly anticipating their first bite!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even try tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or any seasonal vegetables you enjoy for extra nutrition and color.
- Spices: For an extra kick, include red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy twist.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure not to overcrowd the skillet when browning the beef; this allows for better browning and prevents steaming.
- If using rice noodles, soak them in warm water before stir-frying to achieve the perfect texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Serve with a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty finish.
Tips
- Cook your noodles al dente since they will continue to cook when added to the skillet.
- Personalize the dish based on family preferences by adjusting ingredient ratios or adding different toppings.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 820mg
FAQs
Can I use different types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap lo mein for rice noodles, spaghetti, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the beef and sauté the vegetables in advance. Simply combine everything and heat through when ready to serve.
What can I serve with Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?
This dish pairs excellently with a variety of sides, such as steamed broccoli, a fresh salad, or even egg rolls for an Asian-inspired spread.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles instead of traditional wheat noodles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is an outstanding option for a quick, delicious, and satisfying family meal. Its wonderful blend of flavors, simplicity, and adaptability makes it a top choice for busy weeknights. Don’t hesitate to experiment with various ingredients or serve it alongside your favorite sides. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences in the comments below. Your families are going to love it!
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Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is a delicious and quick dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 8 oz noodles (lo mein or spaghetti)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add your choice of noodles—lo mein or spaghetti works best. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until they are tender yet firm to the bite. Once ready, drain the noodles in a colander and set aside.
- Next, heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook the beef until it’s well-browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. It’s important to drain any excess fat that may accumulate, as this will keep the dish from becoming too greasy. Once drained, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of cooking oil. Introduce the finely chopped onion, diced carrot, and minced garlic. Sauté these vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and aromatic.
- While the vegetables are sautéing, mix your sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, ground ginger, and black pepper, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Once your vegetables are sautéed, pour this mixture directly into the skillet with the veggies.
- Now, return the prepared ground beef to the skillet. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir everything together. As the contents cook for an additional 2 minutes, you’ll observe the sauce thickening to the perfect consistency.
- Once the sauce has thickened, it’s time to add the cooked noodles. Carefully toss them into the skillet, ensuring every strand is evenly coated with the delicious sauce.
- Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a fresh finish. Serve your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles immediately while they’re still warm.
Notes
Ensure not to overcrowd the skillet when browning the beef; this allows for better browning and prevents steaming.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Protein: 25 g