Can I make Mongolian ground beef noodles ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep Mongolian ground beef noodles in advance by cooking the beef and sauce first. Store the sauce and meat mixture separately, and cook the noodles fresh when you're ready to eat. Reheat everything together just before serving for the best texture. This method keeps the noodles from becoming soggy while saving time on busy days.

Are Mongolian ground beef noodles spicy?

Traditionally, Mongolian ground beef noodles are more sweet and savory than spicy. However, the heat level is totally up to you. If you like a bit of kick, add chili garlic paste, red pepper flakes, or a splash of chili oil. These additions can bring balance to the sweetness and add depth without overpowering the dish.

Can I freeze leftovers of Mongolian ground beef noodles?

Yes, Mongolian ground beef noodles can be frozen, though for best results, freeze the beef and sauce separately from the noodles. Noodles tend to soften in the freezer. When ready to eat, reheat the beef mixture and cook fresh noodles to toss together. This keeps the texture just right while still making it meal-prep friendly.

How do I keep Mongolian ground beef noodles from getting soggy?

Cook your noodles until just al dente, rinse them in cold water to stop cooking, and toss them with the sauce right before serving. Avoid letting them sit in the sauce too long. This keeps the texture chewy and lets the sauce cling without turning mushy.

Mongolian ground beef noodles - Oh Là Là Recipes

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz thick wheat noodles (like udon or lo mein)

1 lb ground beef

1 tbsp fresh garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced

⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce

3 tbsp brown sugar

1 tbsp cornstarch

⅓ cup water or low-sodium broth

1 tsp sesame oil

1 tbsp oyster sauce or hoisin sauce (optional)

1 tsp chili garlic paste or red pepper flakes (optional)

2 green onions, chopped

Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Toasted sesame seeds and chili flakes, for topping

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the noodles
Boil noodles until just tender. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

2️⃣ Sauté the aromatics
Heat oil in a skillet over medium. Add garlic and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3️⃣ Brown the beef
Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

4️⃣ Build the sauce
Whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, sesame oil, and any optional sauces. Pour into skillet and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until thickened.

5️⃣ Toss in the noodles
Add noodles to the skillet. Toss until fully coated in the sauce. Let sit for a minute to soak it all in.

6️⃣ Finish and serve
Add green onions and toss once more. Plate and garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, and chili flakes if desired.

Notes

Pro oh là là tip: for next-level flavor, let the noodles sit in the sauce for a minute off the heat before serving. It helps them soak up every drop.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes