Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender ground beef, sweet and savory sauces, and perfectly cooked noodles. This quick and easy recipe is suitable for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. With its unique combination of garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce, this dish stands out as a comforting favorite that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Rich Flavors: The blend of ginger, garlic, and hoisin creates a deliciously complex sauce that coats the noodles perfectly.
- Versatile Meal: Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles can be served as a main course or as part of a larger spread at gatherings.
- Easy Cleanup: One skillet cooking means less mess and hassle in the kitchen.
- Family-Friendly: With its appealing tastes, this recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pot for boiling noodles
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking and makes it easy to combine ingredients.
- Whisk: Using a whisk helps create a smooth slurry with the cornstarch and water for thickening the sauce.
Ingredients
This quick and tasty dish features tender ground beef coated in a sweet, savory sauce with garlic, ginger, and hoisin flavors. Tossed with noodles for an easy 30-minute meal.
For the Beef Sauce
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 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
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Noodles
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine noodles
For Thickening
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
For Garnish
- 4 green onions (sliced)
How to Make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the grated ginger and minced garlic during the last 2 minutes of cooking to infuse their flavors into the meat.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
While the beef is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain them well and set aside.
Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients
After draining any excess fat from the skillet with beef, add brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Pour this mixture into your beef sauce. Bring everything to a simmer for about 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Toss in Noodles
Add the cooked noodles directly into the skillet with your beef mixture. Toss gently to ensure all noodles are evenly coated in that delicious sauce. Let sit for an additional 2-3 minutes so they can absorb more flavor.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles hot, garnished with sliced green onions for an extra touch of freshness. Enjoy!
How to Serve Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Green Onions: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh crunch and vibrant flavor.
- Cilantro: Add chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness that complements the savory sauce.
Pair with Chilled Beverages
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea balances the savory flavors perfectly.
- Sparkling Water: For a light option, serve sparkling water with lemon or lime for a zesty kick.
Create a Bowl Presentation
- Layered Bowl: Serve noodles in a bowl topped with ground beef and drizzled sauce for an appealing presentation.
- Add Veggies: Include steamed broccoli or snap peas for color and added nutrition.
How to Perfect Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
To make your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Lean Beef: Choosing lean ground beef helps reduce excess fat while keeping the dish flavorful.
- Cook Noodles Al Dente: Cooking the noodles just right ensures they hold their texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preference for sweetness.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try adding different sauces like sriracha for heat or oyster sauce for depth.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Serving side dishes alongside your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles can enhance your meal and provide variety. Here are some excellent options:
- Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie adds color and complements the flavors of the noodles.
- Edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides protein and is great for snacking alongside the main dish.
- Fried Rice: A classic Asian side, fried rice offers a satisfying accompaniment to the savory noodles.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and tangy, this salad adds a crisp texture that balances the dish’s richness.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies offer a delightful crunch and contrast to the soft noodles.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and pairs nicely with Asian flavors, enhancing your dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s important to avoid common pitfalls when making Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the Fresh Ingredients: Using pre-minced garlic or ginger can dull the flavor. Always opt for fresh ingredients to enhance the dish’s taste.
- Overcooking the Noodles: Cooking noodles too long can make them mushy. Follow the package instructions and aim for al dente for better texture.
- Not Tasting the Sauce: Failing to taste the sauce before serving can lead to unbalanced flavors. Adjust sweetness or saltiness as needed for a perfect blend.
- Ignoring the Resting Time: Skipping the resting time after mixing noodles with sauce means missing out on flavor absorption. Let it sit for a few minutes to enjoy maximum flavor.
- Using Regular Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce can make your dish too salty. Opt for low-sodium versions to control saltiness and enhance flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing it.
Freezing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Portion out individual servings for easier thawing.
Reheating Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish, covered, in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles are a quick, flavorful dish made with ground beef, noodles, and a savory sauce that includes garlic and ginger.
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes! You can substitute linguine or fettuccine with any noodle type you prefer, such as rice noodles or spaghetti.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted by modifying or omitting red pepper flakes. It’s mild but can be made spicier based on your preference.
What sides pair well with Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
Consider serving this dish with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it separately from the noodles until you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles offer an amazing blend of flavors that is both comforting and easy to prepare. This versatile recipe allows for customization—add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli, or adjust spices according to your taste. Give it a try, and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is a delectable dish that harmonizes tender ground beef with a rich, sweet-savory sauce and perfectly cooked noodles. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends, bringing together the vibrant flavors of garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce for a cozy meal everyone will adore.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine noodles
- 4 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup low-sodium beef broth
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 green onions (sliced)
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned (about 5 minutes). Add ginger and garlic last to enhance their flavors.
- While the beef cooks, boil salted water in a pot and cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- To the skillet, add brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes; stir well.
- Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry; add to the sauce in the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Toss cooked noodles into the skillet with the beef mixture until evenly coated. Let sit for an additional few minutes for flavor absorption before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (335g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
