Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender ground beef, a sweet and savory sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles. This quick meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering an easy way to impress family and friends with minimal effort. With its unique combination of garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce, this dish stands out for its mouthwatering taste and simplicity.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of garlic, ginger, and hoisin creates a savory sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or switch up the noodles based on what you have on hand.
- Feeding a Crowd: This recipe serves eight, making it great for family dinners or potlucks.
- Easy Cleanup: With just one skillet needed, you’ll spend less time cleaning up after cooking.
Tools and Preparation
To make Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, having the right tools can streamline your cooking process. Here are some essential items you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling noodles
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures that your ground beef cooks evenly and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Pot for boiling noodles: A large pot helps you cook noodles properly without overcrowding them, leading to better texture.
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 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 Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef 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, boil water in a pot. Add linguine or fettuccine noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them well and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Add brown sugar, low-sodium beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything well to combine.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the beef sauce. Bring to a simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens nicely.
Step 5: Combine with Noodles
Add the cooked noodles directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to ensure that all noodles are evenly coated in that delicious flavor. Let it sit for another 2-3 minutes so that they absorb more taste.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles hot from the skillet! Garnish with sliced green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor. Enjoy!
How to Serve Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize your serving style to enhance the meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
Serve with Fresh Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright and healthy, steamed broccoli adds a nice crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
- Sautéed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers provide sweetness and a pop of flavor that pairs well with the savory noodles.
Add a Spicy Kick
- Chili Sauce: Drizzle some chili sauce on top for an extra layer of heat that complements the hoisin sauce beautifully.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle more red pepper flakes on individual servings for those who love spice.
Garnish Creatively
- Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and makes the dish visually appealing.
- Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro introduces a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the beef.
Pair with Crunchy Snacks
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls make a great appetizer alongside this dish, enhancing the Asian cuisine theme.
- Crackers or Chips: Serve with rice crackers or fried wonton chips for a delightful crunch.
How to Perfect Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
Perfecting Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles involves attention to detail in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will provide a stronger flavor compared to dried versions. Always opt for fresh when possible.
- Cook Noodles Al Dente: Avoid overcooking your noodles; they should be firm but cooked enough to absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste preference, you can adjust the amount of brown sugar. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the noodles to sit in the sauce for a few minutes lets them soak up all those delicious flavors.
- Experiment with Proteins: While ground beef is fantastic, feel free to substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add More Veggies: For added nutrition and texture, consider mixing in vegetables like carrots or snap peas during cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
To round out your meal, consider pairing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles with these delectable side dishes. Each option complements the main dish while adding variety to your table.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with vinegar balances the rich flavors of the noodles.
- Fried Rice: This classic side is flavorful and filling, making it an excellent partner for your noodles.
- Egg Drop Soup: Light yet satisfying, egg drop soup adds warmth and comfort alongside your main course.
- Asian Slaw: Crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing offers a tangy contrast to the savory noodles.
- Dumplings: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables or meat can serve as a delightful appetizer or side.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is not only comforting but also enhances the Asian-inspired theme of your meal.
- Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried vegetables add crunch and flavor that pairs well with noodles.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn brushed with butter complements the savory taste of Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding mistakes can make your Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles even better. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the beef: Brown the beef just until it’s cooked through. Overcooking can make it tough.
- Skipping the ginger and garlic: These ingredients add essential flavor. Don’t skip them; add them at the right time for maximum impact.
- Not letting the noodles absorb the sauce: Allowing the noodles to sit in the sauce helps them soak up flavor. This step is crucial for a tasty dish.
- Using high-sodium sauces: Opt for low-sodium options to control saltiness. This ensures a balanced flavor without overwhelming your dish.
- Ignoring the optional red pepper flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, don’t overlook this ingredient! It can elevate your dish significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.
Freezing Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Keep frozen for up to 2 months to maintain quality.
Reheating Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water and reheat over medium heat, stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles, along with their answers.
Can I use other types of noodles?
You can substitute linguine or fettuccine with other types like spaghetti or rice noodles. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness largely depends on the optional red pepper flakes. Feel free to adjust or omit them based on your taste preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the sauce and cook the noodles ahead. Combine them before serving for best results.
What sides pair well with Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
Consider serving with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal that complements the rich flavors of the noodles.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is a delightful dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and ingredients based on your preferences, making each meal unique. Give it a try and enjoy!
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is an incredibly satisfying dish that combines the savory richness of ground beef with a delightful blend of garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce. This quick and easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. With its tender beef and perfectly cooked noodles tossed in a flavorful sauce, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Enjoy this comforting dish that brings the flavors of Asian cuisine right to your table!
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
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned (about 5 minutes). Add ginger and garlic during the last two minutes.
- Boil water in a pot and cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Drain excess fat from beef, then add brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
- Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Toss cooked noodles into the skillet with the sauce and let them absorb flavors for another 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
