Ever had one of those nights where you’re craving something bold, savory, and satisfying—but you’ve only got 20 minutes to spare? That’s exactly where these Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles come in. With a rich, slightly sweet soy-garlic sauce, tender noodles, and hearty ground beef, this dish delivers the comfort of your favorite takeout without the wait (or the price tag).
What I love most? It’s incredibly versatile. You can toss in your favorite veggies, spice it up with a dash of red pepper flakes, or keep it simple for picky eaters. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just need a quick win after a long day, this Asian-inspired noodle dinner checks every box—fast, flavorful, and fuss-free.
Ready to stir up something irresistible in your skillet tonight? Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let’s be real—some nights, we all just need a quick noodle dinner that hits the spot without draining our energy. That’s where these Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles truly shine. They’re not just fast—they’re packed with flavor, wallet-friendly, and ridiculously easy to customize.
Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:
Bursting with Flavor in Every Bite
The savory Mongolian sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of brown sugar creates that classic sweet-and-salty balance we all crave. The rich beef absorbs it beautifully, coating the noodles in a glossy, flavorful glaze that tastes like it simmered all day—but really, it came together in minutes.
Dinner in 20 Minutes or Less
No complicated steps, no obscure ingredients. From start to finish, this easy ground beef recipe is on your table in under half an hour. It’s ideal for weeknights when time (and patience) is limited.
Budget-Friendly and Pantry-Ready
Using simple staples like ground beef, noodles, and a handful of seasonings, this recipe is gentle on your grocery bill. Even better? Chances are, your pantry is already stocked with most of what you need for this recipe.
Family-Friendly and Customizable
Feeding picky eaters? Skip the spice. Want to sneak in extra veggies? Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or shredded carrots. This stir fry noodle dish is a blank canvas for your cravings.
Simple Ingredients to Make This Recipe
One of the best parts about these Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is how simple and accessible the ingredients are. No specialty grocery trips needed—just everyday staples that come together to create a seriously delicious Asian-inspired noodle dish in no time.
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this recipe to life:
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
Lean or regular ground beef both work. Just drain excess fat if needed for a cleaner sauce finish. - 8 oz noodles
Lo mein, ramen, or even spaghetti will do the trick. Pick what you love or what’s already in your pantry. - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Adds the deep umami base to your savory Mongolian sauce. Opt for a low-sodium version if you like to adjust the salt level yourself. - 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Balances the salt with a hint of sweetness. It’s that classic Mongolian flavor combo. - 2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh garlic adds bold aroma and depth—don’t skip it. - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Gives the sauce a warm, slightly spicy edge. Ground ginger works in a pinch, but fresh is best. - 1 tablespoon cornstarch + ¼ cup water
This slurry thickens the sauce to a perfect, glossy consistency that clings to the noodles beautifully. - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Adds a subtle nuttiness and authentic finish. A little goes a long way. - ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Toss these in if you like a little kick. Adjust to your spice comfort level.
Optional Add-Ins and Toppings
- Toasted sesame seeds – For texture and a bit of flair on top.
- Sliced green onions – For a pop of freshness and color.
- Steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or shredded carrots – Great for sneaking in veggies.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic and ginger from a jar work too. It’s all about getting that quick, flavorful beef noodle stir fry on the table fast—with zero stress.

How to Make This Recipe
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up these Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles—we’re talking one skillet, minimal prep, and max flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this quick noodle dinner goes from pantry to plate in just 20 minutes. Let’s break it down step by step:
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add your choice of noodles (lo mein, ramen, or even spaghetti).
- Boil the noodles until just tender, following the package directions, then drain and keep them aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet or wok, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes).
- Drain any excess fat for a cleaner sauce.
Step 3: Make the Mongolian Sauce
While the beef cooks, whisk together in a small bowl:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Step 4: Thicken and Combine
- Add the sauce to the browned beef and mix thoroughly so everything is evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with ¼ cup water to create a slurry.
- Mix in the cornstarch slurry and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy finish.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until evenly coated.
Optional Add-Ins: Feel free to throw in steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, or bell peppers here for extra nutrition and color.
Quick Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh garlic and ginger for bold, authentic flavor.
- Don’t overcook the noodles—they’ll soak up sauce better with a bit of firmness.
- Double the sauce if you like your noodles extra juicy.
That’s it! You’ve just made a cozy, crave-worthy dish that tastes like takeout—but better, faster, and way more satisfying.

Serving Suggestions
Now that your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are hot, saucy, and ready to go, let’s talk about how to serve them for maximum flavor and satisfaction. This dish is incredibly versatile, which means you can dress it up or keep it simple—whatever works for you!
Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal
If you’re looking to round out your Asian-inspired dinner, here are some easy side options that complement the sweet and savory noodles beautifully:
- Steamed or roasted vegetables
Think broccoli, bok choy, snow peas, or carrots for added crunch and color. - Asian-style cucumber salad
Light and refreshing, with a tangy bite that balances the rich beef. - Egg rolls or potstickers
Store-bought or homemade, these make a fun appetizer or crunchy side. - Fried or steamed rice
A small scoop of jasmine or sticky rice on the side works well if you want extra carbs or have extra sauce to soak up.
Garnish Like a Pro
Toppings aren’t just pretty—they add flavor and texture too. Try:
- Chopped green onions – For a burst of freshness
- Toasted sesame seeds – For crunch and a nutty finish
- A drizzle of chili oil or sriracha – If you love a little heat
Pro Tip: Serve noodles in shallow bowls for easier tossing and that satisfying restaurant-style presentation.
Make It Family or Guest Friendly
Feeding a crowd? This recipe is super easy to double. You can even set up a DIY noodle bar and let everyone top their bowls with veggies, heat, and garnishes of their choice.
Whether you serve it solo or as part of a larger meal, these flavor-packed beef noodles are sure to impress. They’re cozy enough for a weeknight, yet tasty enough to serve to guests—what more could you ask for?
Conclusion
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making a dish that’s fast, flavorful, and family-approved—and these Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles check all those boxes with ease. Whether you’re racing through a busy weeknight or simply craving that sweet-savory takeout flavor at home, this recipe delivers every time.
With simple ingredients, one skillet, and just 20 minutes, you’ve created a dish that tastes like it took much longer. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a go-to dinner—one that’s easy to tweak, easy to love, and hard to mess up.
Let’s recap why this dish is a keeper:
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Budget-friendly and made with pantry staples
- Full of bold, Asian-inspired flavors
- Perfect for the whole family
So next time you’re staring into the fridge wondering what to make, remember this delicious solution is just 20 minutes away.
Ready to bring this savory noodle stir fry into your regular dinner rotation? Give it a try, and don’t forget to make it your own with your favorite add-ins or spice level.
Dinner doesn’t need to be fancy—it just needs to taste amazing.
You might also enjoy our delicious Hearty Chili made with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef.

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz noodles
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Optional Add-Ins and Toppings
- Sliced green onions
- Steamed broccoli bell peppers, or shredded carrots
- Toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add your choice of noodles (lo mein, ramen, or even spaghetti).
- Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Pro Tip: Toss cooked noodles with a tiny drizzle of sesame oil to prevent sticking and add an extra layer of flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet or wok, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes).
- Drain any excess fat for a cleaner sauce.
Step 3: Make the Mongolian Sauce
- While the beef cooks, whisk together in a small bowl:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Stir until the sugar dissolves. This is your flavor-packed, Asian-inspired sauce base.
Step 4: Thicken and Combine
- Pour the sauce over the cooked beef and stir well to coat.
- In a separate bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with ¼ cup water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Optional Add-Ins: Feel free to throw in steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, or bell peppers here for extra nutrition and color.
Notes
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 485 kcal |
Total Fat | 19g |
Saturated Fat | 6g |
Cholesterol | 65mg |
Sodium | 890mg |
Carbohydrates | 48g |
Fiber | 2g |
Sugars | 9g |
Protein | 26g |
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! While traditional lo mein noodles are a great choice, you can use any kind of noodle you like. Ramen, egg noodles, or even spaghetti work in a pinch. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they hold up when tossed with the flavorful sauce.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any extra noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to keep them moist and flavorful. You can also microwave them, but a quick stovetop reheat adds extra texture.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply make a bit more cornstarch slurry. Start with an extra teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water, then add it to the skillet during Step 3. Stir well and let it simmer until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the soy sauce for tamari (a gluten-free alternative), and use gluten-free noodles such as rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. It’s an easy tweak to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! This is a great dish to sneak in extra veggies. You can add broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots—just stir them into the beef when it’s almost done cooking. For added texture and nutrition, these veggies will blend seamlessly into the rich, savory sauce.