Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a delicious one-pan dish that brings together the savory and sweet flavors of ground beef in a rich sauce served over linguine. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packs a punch in taste, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Why Make This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
There are plenty of reasons to whip up this fantastic dish. First and foremost, the combination of flavors is simply irresistible. The sweet brown sugar balances the salty soy sauce and hoisin sauce, while the garlic adds a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one bowl. With protein from the beef and carbs from the noodles, it satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds without requiring a long list of complicated side dishes. Best of all, you can get it on the table in less than 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for those busy nights!
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Making Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is simple and straightforward. With just a few ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delightful, flavorful dish ready to serve.
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 of red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- 10 oz linguine
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 4 green onions, sliced for garnish
Directions:
- Begin by cooking the linguine according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the minced garlic to the browned beef and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked linguine to the skillet. Toss the noodles in the sauce until they are well coated.
- Garnish the dish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Nutritional Information
A serving of Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles contains approximately:
- Calories: 520
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 27g
These values may vary based on specific ingredients and portions used.
How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
This dish is best enjoyed hot straight from the skillet. Serve it in generous bowls and top with extra green onions for a fresh crunch. You could also pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad to add more colors and textures to your meal. For a more festive occasion, consider serving it alongside a light Asian-inspired appetizer, like spring rolls.
How to Store Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of water or beef broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Expert Tips for Perfect Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat without sacrificing flavor.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with plant-based ground meat or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- For egg noodles or rice noodles, adjust cooking times as necessary.
- Feel free to adjust the sugar and spice levels according to your taste preference.
- To make it a one-pan meal, toss in some bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas when cooking the beef.
Delicious Variations
Switch things up with these easy variations:
- Spicy Mongolian Noodles: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for an extra kick.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a drizzle of heavy cream or coconut milk after adding the sauce for a richer flavor.
- Beef and Broccoli: Mix in some steamed broccoli florets for added nutrition and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground chicken or turkey works well in this recipe. Simply follow the same cooking instructions.
2. What if I can’t find hoisin sauce?
If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can make a quick substitute by mixing soy sauce with a bit of peanut butter and sugar.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Store in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is an easy-to-make dish bursting with flavor that will surely become a go-to recipe in your household. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can create a comforting meal that everyone will love. Give it a try tonight, and let the sweet and savory aroma fill your home. Don’t forget to share your experience or any tweaks you made to the recipe with us! Happy cooking!