Mongolian Beef and Noodles: A Flavorful Fusion of Savory and Sweet! 🍜🥩🥢
Get ready for a satisfying and flavorful twist on a takeout favorite with this Mongolian Beef and Noodles recipe! Tender ground beef is simmered in a rich and savory-sweet sauce, infused with garlic, ginger, and a hint of spice, then tossed with perfectly cooked noodles. The reserved pasta water creates a luscious coating that clings beautifully to every strand. Topped with fresh green onions, this dish is a quick and easy way to bring a taste of Asian-inspired comfort to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
12 oz noodles (fettuccine, linguine, spaghetti, or your favorite long pasta)
1 lb ground beef (the hearty protein base)
1 tbsp minced garlic (or 1 tsp garlic powder – for that aromatic punch)
½ cup soy sauce (for that umami-rich, savory depth)
½ cup packed light brown sugar (for a touch of sweetness and caramelization)
3 tbsp hoisin sauce (adds a complex, sweet, and savory flavor)
2 tsp ground ginger (warm, aromatic spice)
1–2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to your preferred level of heat!)
2 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp cold water (to create a thickening slurry)
Green onions, sliced (for a fresh, vibrant garnish)
Let’s Get Cooking!
Step 1: Cook the Noodles and Save the Liquid Gold!
Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente.
Before draining, reserve about 1½ cups of the pasta water. This starchy liquid is key to creating a silky and cohesive sauce that beautifully coats the noodles. Drain the remaining water and set the cooked noodles aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Infuse with Garlic
In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add the ground beef.
Cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through.
Add the minced garlic (or garlic powder) and continue to cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce
Stir in the soy sauce, packed light brown sugar, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes into the skillet with the cooked ground beef.
Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce to Perfection
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until you have a smooth slurry with no lumps.
Pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet with the beef and sauce.
Stir continuously as the sauce comes to a gentle simmer. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Create a Luscious Coating with Pasta Water
Pour the reserved pasta water into the skillet with the thickened sauce and ground beef.
Bring the mixture back to a simmer and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce becomes glossy and slightly thickened. The pasta water adds body and helps the sauce cling beautifully to the noodles.
Step 6: Toss and Coat the Noodles
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the flavorful Mongolian beef sauce.
Toss the noodles thoroughly, ensuring that every strand is evenly coated with the rich and savory-sweet sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve Immediately!
Transfer the Mongolian Beef and Noodles to serving bowls.
Garnish generously with sliced fresh green onions for a pop of color and a fresh, mild oniony flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal!
Tips for Delicious Mongolian Beef and Noodles:
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Al dente noodles hold their shape better when tossed with the sauce.
Adjust the Heat: Taste the sauce before adding all the red pepper flakes and adjust to your preference.
Fresh Garlic and Ginger: If you have them on hand, fresh minced garlic and grated ginger will provide the best flavor.
Deglaze the Pan (Optional): After browning the beef, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of beef broth or water before adding the other sauce ingredients to scrape up any flavorful browned bits.
Add Vegetables (Optional): Feel free to stir-fry some vegetables like sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas in the skillet before adding the ground beef for a more complete meal.
Variations for Your Culinary Adventure:
Use Different Proteins: You can adapt this recipe using thinly sliced steak or chicken instead of ground beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Spice it Up Further: Add a dash of sriracha or your favorite chili garlic sauce for an extra kick.
Sesame Oil: A teaspoon of sesame oil added at the end can enhance the nutty aroma and flavor.
Noodle Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of noodles like ramen, udon, or even rice noodles.
This Mongolian Beef and Noodles recipe is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful way to enjoy a satisfying Asian-inspired dish at home. The combination of savory beef, sweet and tangy sauce, and perfectly coated noodles is a guaranteed winner! Enjoy every delicious bite! 🍜🥩🥢😋