Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of savory ground beef and tender noodles, all enveloped in a sweet and tangy sauce. This quick 30-minute meal is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends and family. With its robust notes of garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of ginger, garlic, and hoisin sauce creates an irresistible taste experience.
- Customizable: Easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
- Family-Friendly: With its delicious flavors, this meal is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing ground beef makes this dish economical without compromising on taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, gather your tools to streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling noodles
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the ground beef and helps in thickening the sauce perfectly.
- Pot for boiling noodles: A sturdy pot allows you to boil the noodles efficiently without overcrowding.
- Whisk: Using a whisk helps create a smooth slurry when mixing cornstarch with water.
Ingredients
For the Main Dish
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine noodles
For the Sauce
- 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
Thickening Agent
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 4 green onions (sliced)
How to Make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned (about 5 minutes). Add ginger and garlic during the last 2 minutes to infuse their flavors into the meat.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente; drain well. Set aside while you work on the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Drain excess fat from the skillet. Add brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes; stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry; add this mixture to the skillet. Simmer until thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
Step 5: Combine Noodles with Sauce
Toss the cooked noodles in the sauce for an even coating. Allow them to sit for an additional 2-3 minutes before serving to let flavors meld together.
Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles as a satisfying main course!
How to Serve Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you want to keep it simple or make it a full meal, there are plenty of options to consider.
Family Style
- Serve the noodles in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves. This encourages a communal dining experience and is great for family gatherings.
With Extra Vegetables
- Add sautéed bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas on top of the noodles for added nutrition and color. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more visually appealing.
Garnished with Green Onions
- Finish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh sliced green onions. This adds a pop of freshness and complements the savory flavors of the dish.
As Part of a Meal Prep
- Divide leftovers into meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week. This makes it easy to enjoy your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles on busy days.
With Soy Sauce on the Side
- Offer additional soy sauce on the side for those who prefer extra seasoning. It allows guests to customize their flavor intensity according to their taste.
Served with Chopsticks
- Present your noodles with chopsticks for an authentic Asian dining experience. This can make mealtime feel special and fun, especially for kids.
How to Perfect Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
To achieve the best results with your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and vegetables elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Cook noodles al dente: This ensures they maintain their texture when tossed in the sauce.
- Balance sweetness: Start with less brown sugar and adjust according to personal preference while tasting the sauce.
- Let flavors meld: Allow the finished dish to sit for a few minutes before serving so that flavors can combine.
- Explore protein variations: Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Customize your spice level: Adjust red pepper flakes based on your heat preference to tailor it to your taste.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Pairing side dishes with your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty suggestions:
- Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame complements the richness of the noodles without overpowering them.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These add crunch and are perfect for dipping in sweet chili sauce or soy sauce.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing provides a nice textural contrast.
- Garlic Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice pairs wonderfully with Mongolian noodles, making it a filling combination.
- Miso Soup: A light miso soup adds warmth and depth without being too heavy alongside your main dish.
- Cucumber Salad: A simple salad with cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar offers a cool balance to hearty noodles.
- Vegetable Tempura: Crispy vegetable tempura adds an indulgent element that pairs well with any noodle dish.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate and provide a sweet ending after enjoying rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
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Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spices can lead to bland noodles. Always taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
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Overcooking the noodles: Cooking noodles for too long makes them mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best texture.
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Not draining excess fat: Leaving too much fat in the skillet can make your dish greasy. Remember to drain the excess fat after cooking the ground beef.
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Ignoring vegetable additions: Missing out on veggies can reduce nutrition and flavor. Customize with bell peppers or broccoli for added texture and taste.
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Rushing the sauce thickening: Failing to let the sauce thicken properly will result in a watery dish. Allow sufficient time for simmering after adding cornstarch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Freezing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water and reheat over medium heat, stirring until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use other types of meat for Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken as healthier options while still enjoying great flavor.
How can I make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles spicier?
To increase heat, add more red pepper flakes or stir in some sriracha into your sauce.
What vegetables can I add to Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
Feel free to include bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, or snow peas for added nutrition and color!
Can I prepare Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook everything in advance and store it in the fridge or freeze it for later use.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is a delightful meal that brings comfort and satisfaction to your table. Its quick preparation makes it perfect for busy nights, while its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious dinner that everyone will love!
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is a quick and flavorful dish that combines savory ground beef with tender noodles in a delightful sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to favorite for families. With robust notes of garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables.
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
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- Green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned (about 5 minutes). Add ginger and garlic during the last 2 minutes.
- Cook noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet. Add brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes; stir to combine.
- Whisk cornstarch with water in a bowl to create a slurry; add to the skillet and simmer until thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
- Toss cooked noodles in the sauce for an even coating before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
