Description

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a quick, flavorful fusion dish inspired by classic Mongolian beef flavors but made accessible with everyday ground beef and pantry noodles. Sweet, savory, and rich, this satisfying one-pan meal comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

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For the Sauce

1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for umami depth)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Noodles

8 ounces dried ramen, lo mein, or spaghetti noodles
Water for boiling
Salt, for seasoning pasta water

For the Beef

1 pound lean ground beef
1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or canola)
2–3 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
1 cup shredded carrots (optional, for added crunch)

To Finish

Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Additional green onions, for garnish

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Instructions

Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce (if using), minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add Aromatics: Add the green onions (white and light green parts) and carrots (if using) to the skillet with the beef. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Combine Beef, Sauce, and Noodles: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the beef and vegetables. Stir well, then add the drained noodles. Toss everything together to coat the noodles evenly in the sauce, cooking for another 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld and the noodles are glossy.
Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with additional green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal.
Add veggies like bell pepper, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
For a gluten-free version, use tamari and gluten-free noodles.
Omit oyster sauce for a strictly vegetarian version (or use vegetarian oyster sauce).
This dish reheats beautifully – perfect for meal prep!

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 520
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 1000mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 59g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 65mg