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A close-up of Mongolian ground beef noodles in a bowl, showing the savory sauce and tender beef.

Classic Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

This recipe features tender ground beef and a savory, slightly sweet sauce, tossed with noodles for a quick and satisfying meal. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner and comes together in about 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

  • large skillet or wok
  • small bowl

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 or leaner will work well
  • 8 oz dried ramen noodles or your favorite stir-fry noodles
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated

Mongolian Sauce

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce low sodium preferred
  • 1/2 cup water or beef broth
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a hint of heat

Garnish & Serving

  • 2 green onions sliced
  • Sriracha or extra red pepper flakes for serving (if desired)

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Cook the ramen or stir-fry noodles according to the package directions, then drain them well and set aside.
  • Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, and then drain any excess fat.
  • Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan with the beef and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water (or broth), brown sugar, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth.
  • Pour the sauce mixture over the beef in the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until thickened and glossy.
  • Add the cooked and drained noodles to the skillet with the beef and sauce, then toss everything together until the noodles are thoroughly coated.
  • Divide the noodles among bowls and garnish generously with sliced green onions; serve with Sriracha or extra red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of Sriracha directly to the sauce. You can also add some mixed vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli florets during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.