Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

When it comes to satisfying your craving for Chinese cuisine, Mongolian Beef is often at the top of the list. There’s something about the sweet and savory sauce that makes it irresistible. But here’s the great news – you don’t have to wait for takeout to enjoy it! This recipe for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is not only quick and easy to make (just fifteen minutes!), but it also delivers that beloved flavor in a comforting noodle form. It’s a win-win-win!

Traditional Mongolian Beef calls for flank steak, but this noodle version uses ground beef to keep things simple, speedy, and budget-friendly. Chances are, you have a pound of ground beef tucked away in your freezer, making this recipe perfect for those nights when dinner plans are non-existent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The combination of sweet and savory notes in the sauce brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Plus, it’s an economical meal that can be whipped up with ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Pinch red pepper flake, optional
• 10 oz linguine
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 4 green onions, sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large pot of boiling water, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink.
3. Drain fat as needed, then add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, ginger, red pepper flake, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoons cold water and add to the ground beef. Stir and bring to a gentle boil. Once the sauce has thickened, add noodles and stir to combine.
6. Let the noodles sit in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb some flavor. Top with green onions and serve. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Be sure to brown the beef well to enhance its flavor.
• For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer after adding the cornstarch mixture.
• Adjust the heat level by adding more or less red pepper flake according to your preference.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrients and color.
• Use gluten-free soy sauce and noodles to make this dish gluten-free.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This recipe is a good source of protein and offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates and fats. For exact nutritional information, please calculate based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the meat in advance. Just reheat and add the cooked noodles when ready to serve.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best not to freeze the noodles as they can become mushy. However, you can freeze the sauce and beef mixture separately and add fresh noodles when ready to eat.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and devouring these Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles as much as we do! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of a favorite takeout dish right at home. Give it a try and don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you come up with. Happy cooking!