Seared Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe

Sizzling Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe for Cozy Nights

Weeknight dinners demand quick, flavorful solutions that satisfy hunger without sacrificing taste.

This mouthwatering mongolian ground beef noodles recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory and sweet in under 30 minutes.

Tender beef sizzles with aromatic garlic and ginger, creating layers of rich, complex flavors.

Green onions add a fresh crunch that cuts through the hearty meat and noodles.

Slurp-worthy and packed with umami, these noodles transform simple ingredients into an irresistible meal.

The sauce coats each strand with a glossy, tantalizing glaze that keeps you coming back for more.

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Favorite Qualities

  • Whip Up Quickly: This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal fast.
  • Customize with Ease: The dish allows for personal tweaks like adjusting spice levels or swapping noodles, giving home cooks flexibility to match their taste preferences.
  • Pack a Flavor Punch: Combining savory ground beef with bold seasonings like ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes creates an exciting taste experience that will wake up your palate.
  • Family Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love the hearty combination of tender noodles and well-seasoned beef, making it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.

Ingredients for Mongolian Noodle Bowls

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A rich and flavorful meat that provides the primary protein base for the Mongolian-style dish.
Aromatics and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic, Ginger: Fresh ingredients that add depth and traditional Asian-inspired fragrance to the beef mixture.
Sauce Components:
  • Soy Sauce: A salty and umami-rich liquid that creates the foundational flavor profile.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements of the dish.
  • Beef Broth: Provides additional depth and moisture to the sauce.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces a gentle heat and spicy undertone to the recipe.
Thickening Agent:
  • Cornstarch: A powder that helps create a smooth and glossy sauce consistency.
Noodle Base:
  • Noodles: The primary carbohydrate component that serves as the foundation of the dish.
Finishing Touches:
  • Sesame Oil: A nutty and aromatic oil that adds a signature Asian flavor.
  • Green Onions, Sesame Seeds: Fresh garnishes that provide color, texture, and additional layers of flavor.
  • Water: Used to mix with cornstarch for creating sauce thickness.

Steps for Mongolian Beef Noodles

Step 1: Boil Noodles

Prepare noodles following package directions.

Drain completely and set them aside, ready for later use.

Step 2: Brown Ground Beef

Heat skillet over medium-high temperature.

Cook ground beef until it turns rich brown, breaking meat into small crumbles.

Remove any excess fat from the pan.

Step 3: Infuse Aromatic Flavors

Toss minced garlic and grated ginger into the beef.

Stir quickly for about 60 seconds until the kitchen fills with a fragrant aroma.

Step 4: Create Flavor Sauce

Whisk together these ingredients in a separate bowl:
  • Soy sauce
  • Brown sugar
  • Beef broth
  • Red pepper flakes

Step 5: Simmer Sauce

Pour sauce mixture into skillet with beef.

Allow liquid to gently bubble and reduce for 2-3 minutes, developing deep flavors.

Step 6: Thicken Sauce

Blend cornstarch with water in a small cup.

Stir this mixture into the skillet, watching sauce transform and become glossy and thick.

Step 7: Combine Noodles

Add cooked noodles directly into skillet.

Toss everything together, ensuring noodles get completely coated with savory sauce.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Drizzle sesame oil over the dish.

Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top.

Serve immediately while hot and steaming.

Best Tips for Mongolian Beef Noodles

  • Remove extra grease from beef to reduce calories and create a cleaner, less oily dish.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat tolerance for a personalized flavor experience.
  • Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding to prevent lumps in the sauce.
  • Toast sesame seeds briefly in a dry pan to enhance their nutty aroma before sprinkling.
  • Replace wheat noodles with rice noodles or zucchini noodles for gluten-free or low-carb alternatives.

Mongolian Noodles Variations and Mix-Ins

  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace ground beef with crumbled tofu or plant-based meat alternatives for a meat-free version that maintains the dish's rich flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use rice noodles or zucchini noodles instead of wheat-based noodles, and substitute tamari for traditional soy sauce to create a celiac-friendly meal.
  • Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap noodles with spiralized vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping the classic Mongolian sauce intact.
  • Spicy Kick Variation: Increase red pepper flakes or add sriracha sauce for those who love extra heat, creating a more intense and fiery version of the original recipe.

Ways to Serve Beef Noodles

  • Flavor Explosion Plating: Serve this dish in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the glossy noodles and tender beef, allowing the sauce to pool beautifully around the edges.
  • Texture Balance Companion: Pair with crisp cucumber salad or quick pickled vegetables to add a refreshing crunch that contrasts the rich, savory noodles.
  • Quick Protein Boost: Top with a soft-fried egg to introduce extra protein and create a luxurious, silky texture when the yolk mixes with the sauce.
  • Spice Level Customization: Offer red pepper flakes or sriracha on the side, letting diners adjust the heat intensity to their personal preference.

Storing Mongolian Beef Noodles After Cooking

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the dish.
  • Pack cooled Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few drops of water to prevent drying. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

  • What type of noodles work best for this recipe?

Egg noodles or lo mein noodles are perfect because they absorb the sauce well and have a great chewy texture that complements the ground beef.

  • Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Increase the red pepper flakes or add sriracha sauce to boost the heat level according to your preference. You can also include fresh chopped chili peppers for extra kick.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free friendly?

Not as written. To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your noodles are gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels carefully.

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Seared Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe

Seared Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savory Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles bring robust Asian flavors straight to your kitchen, blending spicy and sweet notes. Hearty ingredients and quick preparation make this dish perfect for busy weeknight dinners you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) noodles (lo mein or spaghetti)

Aromatics and Seasonings:

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch ginger, grated
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Sauce and Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare noodles according to package directions, thoroughly draining and reserving to the side.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high temperature, browning ground beef completely and eliminating excess grease.
  3. Introduce minced garlic and freshly grated ginger to the meat, sautéing for approximately 60 seconds until aromatic.
  4. Create a flavor-packed sauce by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and crushed red pepper flakes in a separate mixing bowl.
  5. Transfer the sauce mixture into the skillet, allowing it to gently simmer and develop depth for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Create a cornstarch slurry by blending cornstarch with cool water, then incorporate into the simmering sauce to achieve a rich, glossy consistency.
  7. Carefully fold the previously cooked noodles into the beef mixture, ensuring each strand becomes thoroughly coated with the savory sauce.
  8. Enhance the dish’s complexity by drizzling with fragrant sesame oil, then artfully garnish with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
  9. Serve immediately while piping hot, allowing the bold flavors to shine.

Notes

  • Toast sesame seeds beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra crunch to the dish.
  • Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels and make the recipe more diet-friendly.
  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter, leaner protein option.
  • Quickly rinse noodles with cold water after cooking to prevent them from sticking together and maintain a perfect texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 523 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 1025 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

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