Mongolian ground beef noodles

If you’re craving something savory, saucy, and satisfying, Mongolian ground beef noodles are about to become your go-to comfort food. This dish brings together tender noodles coated in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce, paired with perfectly seasoned ground beef that soaks up every bit of flavor. It’s bold, rich, and incredibly easy to make in under 30 minutes. The glossy noodles and juicy beef come together in one glorious bowl that’s just as perfect for a quick weeknight dinner as it is for a casual dinner party. Grab your chopsticks, this one’s worth slurping.

---

---

Ingredient lineup

To create the perfect bowl of Mongolian ground beef noodles, you’ll need just the right mix of pantry staples, fresh aromatics, and a few bold flavor boosters. Each ingredient plays a role in building that deep, savory-sweet profile the dish is known for. Here’s everything you’ll need, plus easy substitutes to make it work with what’s already in your kitchen.

The essentials

• Ground beef: the rich and savory base of the dish
  (Substitute: ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option)
• Noodles: thick wheat noodles or udon-style noodles work best for soaking up the sauce
  (Substitute: lo mein, rice noodles, or even spaghetti in a pinch)
• Garlic: fresh minced garlic adds aromatic depth
  (Substitute: garlic paste or garlic powder if needed)
• Ginger: brings warmth and brightness to the sauce
  (Substitute: ground ginger if fresh is unavailable)

Sauce components

• Soy sauce: the salty umami backbone of the sauce
  (Substitute: tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
• Brown sugar: adds the signature sweet contrast
  (Substitute: honey or maple syrup for a natural alternative)
• Cornstarch: thickens the sauce to help it cling to the noodles
  (Substitute: arrowroot powder or potato starch)
• Water or low-sodium broth: balances the sauce and brings it together
  (Substitute: chicken or vegetable broth for added depth)
• Sesame oil: adds a nutty, toasty finish to the sauce
  (Substitute: omit if unavailable, or use a drizzle of neutral oil for texture)

Optional flavor boosters

• Chili flakes or chili garlic paste: adds gentle heat to cut the sweetness
  (Substitute: sriracha or hot sauce for a punchier kick)
• Oyster sauce or hoisin sauce: intensifies umami and adds a slight stickiness
  (Substitute: soy sauce with a pinch of sugar and a splash of vinegar)

Fresh additions

• Green onions: stir some into the sauce and reserve more for garnish
  (Substitute: chives or shallots for a milder onion note)
• Cilantro: fresh garnish for brightness and balance
  (Substitute: Thai basil or skip if preferred)

Optional toppings

• Toasted sesame seeds: add a gentle crunch and extra nuttiness
  (Substitute: chopped peanuts or cashews for a different texture)
• Crushed red pepper: boosts heat and adds color
  (Substitute: a drizzle of chili oil or a few fresh sliced chilis)

---

Step-by-step directions

Let’s bring these Mongolian ground beef noodles to life. The key is layering flavor as you go, so the beef stays juicy, the noodles soak up the sauce, and every bite delivers that sweet-savory punch. Here’s how to do it, bowl by bowl.

Cook the noodles

Start by boiling your noodles according to package instructions until they’re tender but still have a bit of bite. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside while you prep the beef and sauce.

Sauté the aromatics

In a large skillet or wok over medium heat, drizzle in a little oil and add the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Don’t rush this, it’s where the flavor starts.

Brown the beef

Add the ground beef directly into the skillet with the aromatics. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink. Let it sit undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring to get a nice sear on some of the pieces. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Build the sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, water or broth, and a splash of sesame oil. If you’re using oyster sauce or chili paste, stir them in now. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and stir to coat. Let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until thickened and glossy.

Toss in the noodles

Add the cooked noodles directly to the skillet. Use tongs or two forks to toss everything together until the noodles are fully coated in that rich, sticky sauce. Let them sit for a minute or two to soak it all in.

Finish and serve

Sprinkle in some chopped green onions and give it one last toss. Divide into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, or a pinch of chili flakes if you like extra heat. Serve hot and get ready for the flavor to speak for itself.

---

Pro oh là là tips

Give your Mongolian ground beef noodles an upgrade with these smart, creative tips. From clever swaps to thoughtful pairings, this is how you make the dish your own.

Customization and variations

• Switch up the base: use spiralized veggies for a low-carb option or serve it over rice for a comfort food twist.
• Add crunch: stir in water chestnuts or chopped peanuts for extra texture.
• Add veggies: sautéed bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas make it heartier and more colorful.
• Tame the sweetness: reduce the brown sugar and balance with a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice.
• Try hoisin magic: add a spoonful of hoisin for an extra layer of umami and complexity.
• Make it saucy: double the sauce ingredients for extra drizzle potential or if you love a juicy noodle bowl.

Pairings and serving ideas

• Pair with green apple juice: the crisp, tart flavor of green apple juice cuts through the richness perfectly.
• Serve with steamed veggies: a side of steamed bok choy, green beans, or edamame rounds out the meal with balance.
• Try with cucumber salad: a light cucumber vinegar salad refreshes your palate between bites.
• Finish with rose ice cream: cool things down with floral rose ice cream for dessert.
• Top with a jammy egg: a soft-boiled egg on top makes it extra satisfying and photogenic.
• Elevate the serving experience: warm your bowls before plating or serve straight from the skillet for a cozy, family-style vibe.

---

Frequently asked questions

---

There’s something irresistible about a big bowl of Mongolian ground beef noodles. Between the savory caramelized sauce, chewy noodles, and tender beef, every bite hits that perfect comfort spot. It’s simple, hearty, and customizable enough to make it your own with whatever veggies or garnishes you like. If this became your new weeknight favorite, we wouldn’t blame you.

Leave a comment below with your spin on the dish or your favorite way to serve it. We’d love to hear how you make it yours.

Bon appétit!

---

Recipe card

Print