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.

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.

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.

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.