Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Mongolian beef is a dish many people associate with takeout nights, rich sauces, and sizzling skillets. But you do not need to visit a restaurant to enjoy those bold flavors. This version transforms the classic into a comforting noodle dish using ground beef. It is fast, satisfying, and packed with sweet and savory notes that stick to the noodles and melt into every bite.
Combining familiar pantry ingredients with Asian-inspired sauces, this one-pan meal is the kind you turn to when time is tight but taste still matters. The star of the dish is the sauce — a glossy mixture of soy, garlic, brown sugar, and ginger that clings to every strand of noodle. The beef adds heartiness, and the green onions bring a fresh lift at the end.
Whether you are feeding a hungry family or cooking just for yourself, this meal delivers big on flavor without demanding much effort. It works equally well for weeknight dinners, packed lunches, or lazy weekends when you want something warm, comforting, and completely slurp-worthy.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a breakdown of the ingredients along with their approximate calorie counts per amount used in this recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (85% lean) | 1 pound | 960 |
| Spaghetti or lo mein noodles | 12 ounces | 1260 |
| Soy sauce (low sodium) | ½ cup | 45 |
| Brown sugar | ⅓ cup | 275 |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | 20 |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 1 tablespoon | 5 |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon | 30 |
| Water | ¼ cup | 0 |
| Green onions (sliced) | ½ cup | 10 |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ¼ teaspoon | 2 |
Estimated Total Calories: ~2847
(Serves 4 to 5 generous portions)
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by cooking the noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or lo mein noodles and cook according to the package directions until tender. Drain and set aside.
While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the vegetable oil and the ground beef. Use a spatula to break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Sauté for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until fully browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Push the beef to one side of the skillet and add sesame oil to the empty space. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then mix it into the cooked beef.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and cornstarch. Pour this sauce over the beef mixture in the pan. Stir well and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. The sauce will thicken and become glossy as it heats up.
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Use tongs or a spatula to toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes at this point.
Top the dish with freshly chopped green onions and serve hot. You can garnish with toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of extra sesame oil if desired.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have at home. Ground chicken or turkey can be used instead of beef for a lighter version. If you prefer a vegetarian meal, substitute the meat with plant-based crumbles or even crumbled tofu.
For a more traditional Mongolian flavor, use hoisin sauce in place of some of the brown sugar. You can also add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, snow peas, or shredded carrots to make it a complete one-dish meal.
Rice noodles, udon, or soba can also be swapped in depending on your taste or dietary needs. For gluten-free diets, use tamari instead of soy sauce and pair it with gluten-free noodles.
Want it creamier? Add a splash of coconut milk to mellow out the salty and sweet combo and bring a richer texture.
Nutritional Information
Here is the approximate nutrition per serving (based on 5 servings):
- Calories: 570
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Sugar: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
This dish offers a hearty balance of protein, carbs, and fats. Ground beef provides iron and protein, while garlic and ginger contribute natural antioxidants and digestive benefits. The noodles bring energy and comfort in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mongolian ground beef noodles hot straight from the pan. They go well with steamed broccoli or a quick cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar for a cooling side.
For a more filling meal, add a soft-boiled egg or pan-fried dumplings on the side. If packing leftovers, consider reheating with a tablespoon of water or broth to bring back the silky texture.
This dish also pairs beautifully with miso soup or an Asian-inspired slaw. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts or sesame seeds can add extra texture for those who love a little crunch.
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Conclusion
Mongolian ground beef noodles offer a perfect combination of ease and taste. With simple ingredients and bold flavor, it is a meal that comes together quickly and pleases everyone around the table. The rich sauce, tender beef, and chewy noodles make it a comfort food favorite that feels like a treat even on a weeknight.
Once you try this dish, it is likely to join your list of go-to recipes. It is the kind of meal you will turn to again and again for its convenience, taste, and versatility. Whether you keep it classic or make it your own with custom twists, the result is always delicious.
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