Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
If you’re in the mood for an ultra-satisfying meal that marries savory-sweet flavors with ultra-tender noodles, Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are about to become your new weeknight favorite. This recipe brings together rich ground beef, aromatic ginger and garlic, and a glossy soy-based sauce tossed with springy noodles—every twirl is pure comfort. Whether you’re whipping up dinner for the family or looking for the perfect “something different” for a potluck, Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles check every box for ease, flavor, and fun presentation.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles rely on easy-to-find staples that pack serious flavor into every bite. Each ingredient plays its part, building umami, texture, and those craveable saucy noodles everyone fights over.
- Spaghetti or lo mein noodles (8 ounces): The bouncy backbone of the dish—go with what you have, both work beautifully.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Rich, meaty flavor and quick cooking make this a weeknight hero; lean or regular both shine here.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Helps brown the beef evenly and brings all the aromatics to life.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The king of flavor—use fresh for the brightest punch.
- Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): Adds fragrant warmth and depth; don’t skip this!
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1/2 cup): Savory-salty base to balance with the sweetness of brown sugar.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Caramel notes create that signature Mongolian-style sweet-savory sauce.
- Hoisin sauce (2 tablespoons): Deep, slightly sweet flavor and glossy texture that clings to every noodle.
- Cornstarch mixed with water (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water): The magic touch for a shiny, thickened sauce.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For those who like a gentle, spicy tingle in the background.
- Green onions (4, sliced): These add pop of color and fresh crunch.
- Sesame seeds (for garnish): Nutty finish and a lovely visual flair—don’t forget them for that extra wow!
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling a large pot of water and cooking your spaghetti or lo mein noodles according to the package directions. You want them just al dente, so they’ll soak up the sauce later without getting mushy. Drain the noodles and set them aside, ready and waiting for the flavor party.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
While the noodles cook, heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high and swirl in the vegetable oil. Crumble in the ground beef and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through—about 6 to 8 minutes. If there’s excess grease, go ahead and drain it. This step gives you the savory, meaty base for your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger right into the sizzling beef. Let them cook for just a minute or two, stirring often, to unlock their aromas—your kitchen will smell incredible! This quick sauté infuses the meat with depth and warmth.
Step 4: Stir in the Sauces
Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and hoisin sauce. If you want a gentle kick, gently sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, bubbling gently, as the sauce deepens and thickens slightly.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Give your cornstarch and water mixture a quick stir, then drizzle it into the pan. Toss everything well and watch as the sauce transforms, turning lush and glossy in just a minute or two, clinging to every morsel of beef.
Step 6: Toss with Noodles
Add your drained noodles right into the pan, tossing and turning with tongs or two forks until every strand is lusciously coated in sauce. It’s at this point that Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles really earn their name—savory, silky, and totally irresistible! Remove from heat and get ready to garnish.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the sliced green onions and a generous handful of sesame seeds over the top. Their freshness and crunch will brighten each bite. Plate up immediately and prepare for the “wow” factor at your table.
How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

Garnishes
The finishing touches make all the difference here. A sprinkle of green onions adds fresh color and flavor, while sesame seeds give a subtle nutty crunch. If you want to go even further, try an extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or a few drops of toasted sesame oil for an aromatic boost.
Side Dishes
Balance Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles with simple, bright sides. Steamed broccoli, sugar snap peas, or sautéed bok choy are perfect partners. Set out some crisp cucumber salad or quick pickled veggies for contrast, or pair with a bowl of miso soup to round out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles in individual bowls for easy weeknight dining or pile them onto a big platter for a casual family-style meal—watch everyone dig in! For a showy twist, twirl portions into “nests,” top with an extra sprinkle of green onion, and serve with chopsticks for an elevated experience that turns dinner into an event.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any extra Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days and actually taste even more flavorful after the noodles have soaked up that savory sauce overnight.
Freezing
If you want to freeze Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a well-sealed freezer-safe container. For best texture, freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for lunch or another easy dinner.
Reheating
To reheat, add a small splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles and microwave in bursts, or gently warm in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally as it heats through, so the sauce gets glossy again and everything is hot and ready to devour.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are just as delicious with ground turkey or chicken. The sauce shines with any ground meat, so use your favorite or whatever you have on hand for a lighter twist.
What type Main Course
Both spaghetti and lo mein noodles work great for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles. If you want a classic takeout feel, go for lo mein, but regular spaghetti is a fantastic substitute and easy to find.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To up the heat, simply add more crushed red pepper flakes or stir in a squirt of Sriracha along with the sauce ingredients. You can also offer chili oil at the table so everyone can spice their bowl to taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! For gluten-free Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles, swap in gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and use your favorite gluten-free noodles. Double-check your hoisin sauce or choose a certified gluten-free brand.
What vegetables can I add to this dish?
Try tossing in quick-steamed broccoli, snap peas, red bell pepper strips, or even shredded carrots for extra crunch and color. Add them during the last minute or two before tossing in the noodles so they stay vibrant and fresh.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving big flavors and comfort without the fuss, Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are the answer—fast, craveable, and ready to steal the show at your dinner table! Don’t be surprised when everyone goes back for seconds. Dive in and make this new favorite your own!
Print
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a flavorful and easy-to-make Asian-inspired dish that combines savory ground beef with tender noodles in a delicious sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Spaghetti or Lo Mein Noodles:
8 ounces
Ground Beef:
1 pound
Vegetable Oil:
1 tablespoon
Garlic, minced:
4 cloves
Fresh Ginger, grated:
1 tablespoon
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce:
1/2 cup
Brown Sugar:
1/4 cup
Hoisin Sauce:
2 tablespoons
Cornstarch mixed with Water:
1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional):
1/2 teaspoon
Green Onions, sliced:
4
Sesame Seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Cook the noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef in oil until fully cooked.
- Add aromatics: Add garlic and ginger to the beef and cook until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for a few minutes.
- Thicken the sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Combine everything: Toss in the cooked noodles and mix until well coated.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat, top with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Add steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg