Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are a tasty mix of beef, veggies, and noodles all tossed in a savory sauce. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy days!
Every time I make this, it feels like a cozy dinner party! I love adding some extra veggies to sneak in more color and crunch. You just can’t go wrong with this easy dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lo Mein Noodles: These are soft and chewy, ideal for this dish. If you can’t find them, regular spaghetti works too. It’s a great substitute that’s usually easier to get. Just cook it a bit less to keep it firm!
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for less grease. You can easily switch to ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option or even plant-based crumbles if you want a vegetarian dish!
Soy Sauce: Both regular and dark soy sauces add flavor. If you want less sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce. You can also try tamari for a gluten-free version.
Oyster Sauce: This adds a rich depth. If you need a substitute, try hoisin sauce for a similar sweet and savory profile. Or, simply skip it if you’re vegan—it’ll still taste good!
Brown Sugar: Gives a touch of sweetness. You can swap it with honey or maple syrup if you prefer something more natural.
How Do I Ensure My Noodles Don’t Stick Together?
To keep your noodles from clumping, a couple of steps matter. First, cook them just until al dente—you want them firm enough to hold up with the sauce. After draining, toss the noodles in a bit of oil right away; this keeps them separate.
- Follow the cooking time on the package for lo mein or spaghetti.
- Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking, then toss with a little vegetable oil.
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
For the Beef and Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 3 green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Additional green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, for a total of about 25 minutes. You’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking the lo mein noodles (or spaghetti) according to the package instructions. Once they’re done, drain them well and set them aside. This step is important to ensure your noodles are just right when you mix everything together.
2. Cook the Garlic and Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through.
3. Make the Flavorful Sauce:
Once the beef is browned, stir in the minced ginger, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them for some heat), soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and brown sugar. Mix everything well and let it cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend beautifully.
4. Combine the Noodles:
Now it’s time to add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the noodles are well coated with the delicious sauce. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
5. Add Green Onions and Serve:
Finally, stir in the sliced green onions, saving a few for garnishing later. Serve your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles hot, topped with sesame seeds and the reserved green onions for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Another Type of Noodle Instead of Lo Mein?
Absolutely! If you can’t find lo mein noodles, spaghetti or even rice noodles work well as substitutes. Just be sure to cook them according to their package instructions before adding them to your dish.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! If you prefer more heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh sliced chilies when cooking the ground beef. Alternatively, a splash of chili oil at the end adds a nice punch!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the noodles from drying out, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can definitely swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken! Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, and be sure to season well to enhance the flavor.
