15-Minute Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef

Introduction

There’s something magical about a quick meal that packs a flavorful punch, and these 15-Minute Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef are no exception! I recently whipped up this dish for my family on a busy weeknight, and let me tell you, it was a hit! The combination of savory beef, aromatic ginger and garlic, and the rich soy sauce glaze created a delightful harmony of flavors that had everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, the fact that it took just 15 minutes to make was a game changer. Whether you’re short on time or just craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 8 oz noodles (lo mein or spaghetti)
• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• Red pepper flakes, optional for spice
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles:

• Start by cooking the noodles according to package instructions. Once they are al dente, drain and set aside.

1. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and cornstarch until smooth. Set this mixture aside as it will be added to the beef later.

1. Cook the Beef:

• In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 3-5 minutes.

1. Add Aromatics:

• Once the beef is browned, add minced ginger and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.

1. Thicken the Sauce:

• Pour in the sauce mixture from step 2 and stir until the sauce begins to thicken, which should take about 2 minutes.

1. Combine Noodles and Beef:

• Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the noodles in the savory sauce. Sprinkle in the chopped green onions and red pepper flakes, if you like a little heat.

1. Serve:

• Serve the noodles hot, garnished with sesame seeds and additional green onions for a fresh touch.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 320 kcal
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 15g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Hot and Fresh: Serve the noodles immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
• Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
• Accompaniments: Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad to balance the meal.

Additional Tips

1. Noodle Choice: You can use lo mein noodles for an authentic taste, but spaghetti works just as well in a pinch.
2. Customize the Heat: If you like it spicier, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even some sliced jalapeños.
3. Make it Veggie: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or tofu for a lighter option.
4. Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and prepare the sauce ahead of time to make the cooking process even quicker.
5. Leftover Beef: This recipe is also a great way to use up leftover cooked beef; just skip the browning step!

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable Stir-Fry: Add a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots, for extra nutrition and crunch.
• Noodles with Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for shredded chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Szechuan: Incorporate Szechuan peppercorns and a dash of chili oil for a fiery twist on this dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Egg Rolls: For a more substantial meal, serve alongside crispy egg rolls or spring rolls.
• Drinks: A light, refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade complements the rich flavors of the noodles nicely.
• Garnish Options: Consider adding sliced cucumbers or pickled vegetables on the side for contrast.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked noodles and beef mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to prevent sticking.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of noodles?

• Yes, feel free to use any noodle type you prefer, such as udon or rice noodles.

1. Is this dish gluten-free?

• To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

• Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

1. What can I serve with Mongolian noodles?

• These noodles pair well with spring rolls, fried rice, or a simple vegetable stir-fry.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

1. Can I add more vegetables?

• Yes! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots can enhance nutrition and flavor.

1. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

• Yes, it’s a great option for meal prep. Just store the noodles and sauce separately until you’re ready to heat and serve.

1. What if I don’t have sesame oil?

• You can substitute with vegetable oil or olive oil, but you might miss the distinct nutty flavor of sesame.

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Absolutely! Just make sure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the increased ingredients.

1. What’s the best way to reheat these noodles?
   • The best way is to reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth or water to keep them moist.

Conclusion

These 15-Minute Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef are not only quick and easy to make but also deliciously satisfying. The combination of savory flavors and tender beef wrapped around perfectly cooked noodles creates a dish that will become a regular in your weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a satisfying meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try, and you’ll see just how simple and rewarding a homemade meal can be!

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