When it comes to quick, flavorful meals, Mongolian noodles with ground beef are delivered in spades. This recipe combines savory sauces, tender noodles, and perfectly seasoned ground beef into a one-pan dinner that’s ready in just 15 minutes.
A busy professional or a parent searching for a kid-friendly dish will find this recipe the ultimate solution for weeknight dinners.
Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Speed and Simplicity: Ready in 15 minutes, it’s perfect for those hectic evenings.
- Versatile Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and allows substitutions for dietary needs.
- Family-Friendly: The sweet-savory flavor profile appeals to kids and adults alike.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need to make the dish, along with optional swaps and enhancements to tailor it to your tastes:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes and Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Swap with ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based crumbles for a healthier or vegetarian option. |
| Soy sauce | â…“ cup | Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt content. |
| Hoisin sauce | â…“ cup | Adds sweetness; substitute with oyster sauce for less sweetness. |
| Beef broth | â…” cup | Vegetable broth works for vegetarians. |
| Brown sugar | ¼ cup | Freshly grated ginger offers a sharper flavor. |
| Ground ginger | ¼ tsp | Fresh grated ginger offers a sharper flavor. |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Garlic powder can work in a pinch. |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ tsp | Adjust to your spice tolerance or omit for mild flavor. |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Add to taste; white pepper can be a substitute. |
| Noodles (linguine or spaghetti) | 16 oz | Rice noodles or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs. |
| Green onions | Optional | Use as a garnish for color and freshness. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfection
Photo Credit: shakentogetherlife
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start, measure out your ingredients. This ensures a smooth cooking process and prevents overcooking while juggling tasks.
2. Cook the Noodles
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook your noodles according to the package instructions.
- Tip: Add a teaspoon of salt to the boiling water for extra flavor.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.
3. Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula.
- Tip: Drain excess grease to avoid a greasy dish.
4. Build the Sauce
- To the browned beef, add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
- Stir well and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Combine Noodles and Sauce
- Once the sauce is ready, add the drained noodles to the skillet.
- Toss thoroughly to ensure every strand is coated in a rich, savory sauce.
- Tip: If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a burst of freshness and color.
- Optional: Add sesame seeds for a nutty crunch or a drizzle of sesame oil for depth.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal | Based on standard ingredients, excluding garnishes. |
| Protein | 22 g | Add more with extra meat or tofu. |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g | Adjust by using zoodles or shirataki noodles. |
| Fat | 12 g | Reduce by using leaner ground beef or turkey. |
| Sodium | 950 mg | Use low-sodium soy sauce to cut down. |
Summary
In just 15 minutes, this Mongolian noodle recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal bursting with flavor. It’s the ideal combination of quick, customizable, and utterly satisfying. Perfect for busy nights or last-minute cravings, it’s sure to become a family favorite.