Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

Introduction

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles have quickly become a family favorite in our home. The rich, savory sauce perfectly coats the tender noodles, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. My kids are always excited when they see this meal on the dinner table, and I love how quickly I can prepare it. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe brings a burst of flavor that transports us to a cozy Asian bistro. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, these noodles are sure to hit the spot!

Ingredients

• For the Noodles:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 10 oz linguine
• For the Sauce:
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flake (optional for a spicy kick)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• For Garnish:
• 4 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the linguine according to the package instructions in a large pot of boiling water. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat as needed.

3. Add Aromatics and Sauces

Add the minced garlic to the browned beef and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flake. Stir to combine.

4. Thicken the Sauce

Mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth and stir into the skillet. Bring to a gentle boil; the sauce will thicken.

5. Combine with Noodles

Toss the cooked noodles in the skillet, ensuring they are fully coated with the sauce. Allow to simmer together for 2-3 minutes.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle sliced green onions over the noodles and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 650 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 80g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 800mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve hot straight from the skillet.
• Garnish with extra sliced green onions for color and flavor.
• Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Use Lean Ground Beef: For a healthier version, opt for lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
2. Spice It Up: If you enjoy spicy food, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sriracha for an extra kick.
3. Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to the beef mixture for added nutrition and color.
4. Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free version or use tamari sauce.
5. One-Pot Meal: To simplify cleanup, consider using one pot for both the pasta and the beef mixture by cooking the pasta in the same skillet after the beef is browned.

Recipe Variations

• Chicken or Turkey: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat or tofu crumbles for a vegetarian alternative.
• Different Noodles: Try using rice noodles or udon noodles for a different texture.
• Add Spice: Incorporate fresh chili peppers or chili garlic sauce to increase heat.
• Different Sauces: Experiment with adding sesame oil or peanut sauce for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of crispy spring rolls or dumplings for an appetizer.
• Pair with a light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar to balance the richness of the dish.
• Offer a selection of condiments, such as chili oil, soy sauce, or pickled ginger, for customization.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the noodles in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet or microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use different types of meat?

• Yes! Ground chicken, turkey, or pork can be used as substitutes.

1. What if I don’t have hoisin sauce?

• You can replace hoisin sauce with a mix of soy sauce and a touch of honey for sweetness.

1. Is this dish spicy?

• It has a mild spice level, but you can adjust the red pepper flakes to your preference.

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time and cook the noodles just before serving.

1. What should I serve with this dish?

• It pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

1. Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?

• Absolutely! Using low-sodium soy sauce can help reduce the overall sodium content.

1. How do I store leftovers?

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

1. Can I add more vegetables?

• Yes, feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or broccoli.

1. What kind of noodles can I use?

• Linguine works well, but you can also use spaghetti, rice noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

1. Is it suitable for meal prep?

• Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Just store the components separately until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. With a delightful combination of savory flavors and a quick cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or make it your own with variations, you’re sure to create a dish that everyone will ask for again and again. Enjoy your cooking!

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