This mongolian ground beef recipe is loaded with savory-sweet flavor and comes together in just 20 minutes. It features succulent ground beef simmered in a tangy sauce with hints of garlic and ginger. Best of all, you can serve it over rice or noodles for a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner.
Ever find yourself craving a big, satisfying bowl of something delicious, only to settle for an uninspiring meal? Most people assume this kind of savory Asian-inspired dish is either too complicated or too easy to mess up—resulting in dry, bland beef and an overly sweet sauce. But this mongolian ground beef recipe is your no-fuss solution to creating the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and aromatic flavors without any guesswork.
In this article, we’ll walk through the simple step-by-step process, share expert tricks for extra flavor, and even show you how to make it your own with noodles or different sauces. Get ready to enjoy a foolproof way to cook ground beef that’s both scrumptious and easy enough for any night of the week!
Why You’ll Love Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe
Mongolian ground beef is one of those magical dishes that looks and tastes like it took hours, yet can be on your table in no time. You’ll love the sweet and savory interplay of soy sauce, brown sugar, and aromatic spices, all coating crispy-yet-juicy ground beef. Plus, it’s easy to tailor the spice level to your preference—spice lovers can add red pepper flakes or chili paste, while those seeking something mild can keep it simple.
- Quick Cooking: Ground beef cooks faster than steak strips, meaning you get your meal done swiftly.
- Budget-Friendly: Ground beef tends to be more cost-effective than other cuts, giving you that classic Mongolian-style taste without breaking the bank.
- Flexible Serving Options: Serve it with steamed rice or turn it into a mongolian ground beef noodle recipe for a complete one-bowl dinner.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This is a dish that appeals to both kids and adults, thanks to its balanced sweetness and gentle savory tang.
- Easily Adaptable: You can swap in ground turkey or chicken, use different vegetables, or adjust the sauce’s sweetness to suit various dietary preferences.
Craving a detailed ingredient breakdown? Let’s hop right into that next.
Ingredients for Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe
When it comes to mongolian ground beef recipes, the flavor largely hinges on a handful of pantry staples. Here are the essentials, plus optional add-ins to make it your own:
- Ground Beef (1 lb.)
- Role: Delivers robust flavor and a hearty texture. Choose lean ground beef (around 85% lean) to reduce excess grease.
- Soy Sauce (¼ cup)
- Role: Provides the salty, umami foundation of the sauce. For lower sodium, opt for a light soy sauce.
- Brown Sugar (2–3 tablespoons)
- Role: Balances the saltiness with a mild sweetness. You can dial it down or up based on taste.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Role: Adds depth and a classic aromatic flair. Fresh minced is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced or grated)
- Role: Brings zing and warmth to your mongolian beef recipe with ground beef. Fresh ginger is highly recommended.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon)
- Role: Helps thicken the sauce so it clings to the beef and noodles (if you opt to make a mongolian ground beef noodles recipe).
- Green Onions (2–3 stems, sliced)
- Role: For garnish and a bit of mild onion flavor. Reserve some slices to sprinkle on top.
- Sesame Oil (1 teaspoon, optional)
- Role: Infuses a nutty aroma. A little goes a long way.
- Beef Broth or Water (¼ cup, optional)
- Role: Helps the sauce spread more evenly if you like it saucier.
- Optional Add-Ins
- Red Pepper Flakes or Chili Paste: For heat.
- Vegetables (broccoli florets, snap peas, carrots): Quickly stir-fry them with the ground beef for added nutrition.
- Sesame Seeds: A finishing touch that adds visual appeal and subtle crunch.
Pro Tip: If you prefer a bit more tang, you can splash in a teaspoon of rice vinegar or lime juice to brighten the sauce. Interested in a fusion twist? A dash of hoisin sauce or a spoonful of peanut butter can transform the classic flavors into a whole new culinary adventure.
Ready to see how it all comes together? Let’s move to the next section on how to make this dish.
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe
Making a mongolian ground beef noodle recipe or a simple rice bowl is straightforward. Here’s how to do it efficiently, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor:
- Prepare the Sauce Base
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, and cornstarch.
- If you prefer a saucier dish, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out slightly.
- Brown the Ground Beef
- Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper (keep in mind soy sauce also provides saltiness).
- Continue cooking until the meat is browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Combine with Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the browned beef.
- Stir well to coat, allowing the sauce to bubble and thicken for 2–3 minutes.
- Add Optional Ingredients
- If using vegetables, stir them in and sauté for a few minutes until tender-crisp.
- For heat lovers, sprinkle in chili flakes or add a small spoonful of chili paste.
- Garnish and Taste
- Turn off the heat and swirl in the sesame oil if you want a nutty hint.
- Toss in sliced green onions or sesame seeds on top.
- Taste and adjust sweetness, salt, or spice as desired.
That’s it—you have a mongolian ground beef recipe with noodles or rice (depending on your preference) practically ready to devour! Next, let’s explore some chef tips to perfect your dish.
Chef Tips and Variations for Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe
Want to customize your mongolian beef recipe ground beef style even further? Here are some ideas to up your game:
- Choose the Right Beef
- While lean ground beef is often recommended (around 85% lean), you could use 90% lean to cut down on grease. Higher-fat beef can be drained to control the oil.
- Adjust Sweetness
- If you prefer a stronger savory note, reduce the brown sugar by 1 tablespoon.
- For a sweeter glaze, add an extra tablespoon or even a drizzle of honey.
- Vegetarian Twist
- Swap ground beef for a plant-based alternative crumbles to create a vegetarian version of mongolian ground beef and noodles recipe. The sauce pairs perfectly with meat substitutes.
- Thicken or Thin the Sauce
- For a thicker sauce, add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water (a cornstarch slurry) and let it simmer.
- For a lighter consistency, add a bit more broth or water.
- Spice It Up
- Incorporate chili paste, sriracha, or even a dash of cayenne for an extra kick.
- Top with extra fresh chilies if you want a blazing heat level.
- Flavor Infusions
- Add a splash of fish sauce for deeper umami or a teaspoon of hoisin sauce for a rich sweetness.
- Experiment with a pinch of five-spice powder or star anise for a more authentic Asian flair.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas—each variation is a step toward discovering the best mongolian ground beef recipe for your personal taste. Up next, let’s talk about serving suggestions that make this dish a showstopper.
Serving Suggestions for Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe
The beauty of this mongolian ground beef recipe with noodles or rice is its versatility when it comes to plating and side dishes. Here are some serving ideas to level up your meal presentation:
- Classic with Rice
- Serve the savory, sauce-coated ground beef over a bed of steaming white or brown rice. This classic approach ensures the sweet and salty sauce is absorbed perfectly.
- Noodle Bowl
- Turn it into a recipe for mongolian ground beef noodles by mixing the cooked beef and sauce with lo mein, rice noodles, or even spaghetti.
- Add stir-fried veggies—like bell peppers, carrots, or bok choy—for a balanced meal in one bowl.
- Lettuce Wraps
- Spoon the beef into crisp lettuce leaves (e.g., Romaine or iceberg) for a lighter, hand-held meal.
- Top with shredded carrots, bean sprouts, and a drizzle of extra sauce.
- Tacos or Wraps
- If you’re feeling creative, load the beef into tortillas for an Asian-fusion taco night.
- Throw in some chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a fresh pop.
- Side Dishes
- Complement with quick stir-fried veggies (broccoli, snow peas, or zucchini), a simple cucumber salad, or roasted bok choy.
- A bowl of egg drop soup can also pair nicely for a more complete meal.
Up next, we’ll discuss how to store and reheat any leftovers you might have.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers for Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe
Nothing beats leftovers when they taste just as good the second time around. Here’s how to keep your mongolian ground beef noodle recipe (or rice version) fresh:
- Cool Quickly and Store Properly
- Let the dish cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you need longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating Tips
- Stovetop: Place the beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir until heated through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until piping hot.
- Maintaining Texture
- Add a little fresh green onion after reheating to restore some crunch and flavor brightness.
- If you used noodles, you may want to add a spoonful of water or sauce before microwaving to prevent dryness.
Following these steps ensures your mongolian ground beef recipe remains delicious and safe. Now, let’s wrap up the key points before we dive into FAQs.
Related Recipes You May Love
If you enjoyed this mongolian ground beef recipe, here are some other flavorful beef dishes to try:
- Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe – A comforting, island-inspired stew packed with bold flavors.
- Wagyu Ground Beef Recipe – Experience the richness of Wagyu beef in this mouthwatering dish.
- Pastalaya Recipe – A Cajun fusion of pasta and jambalaya that’s packed with spices.
- Sub in a Tub Recipe – A delicious low-carb twist on a classic sub sandwich.
- Beef Cheek Meat – Learn how to cook this tender and flavorful cut of beef.
- Shaved Beef Recipes – Discover multiple ways to prepare thinly sliced beef for quick meals.
Savory Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for sauce mixing
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef 85–90% lean
- ¼ cup soy sauce low-sodium if preferred
- 2 –3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 –3 green onions sliced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup beef broth or water optional, for a thinner sauce
Optional: Red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, your choice of vegetables
Instructions
- Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Add broth or water if you want a thinner consistency.
- Brown the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the ground beef, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour sauce over beef, stirring until it begins to simmer and thicken (2–3 minutes).
- Optional Extras: Stir in vegetables or chili flakes for added crunch or heat.
- Finish: Turn off heat, stir in sesame oil if desired, and top with green onions or sesame seeds.
Notes
Key Takeaways
- Quick and Flavorful: Mongolian ground beef packs sweet-savory notes in minimal cooking time.
- Versatile: Enjoy it with rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness, spice, and vegetables to suit your preferences.
- Simple to Store: Leftovers keep well and reheat easily in a skillet or microwave.
- Budget-Friendly: Ground beef is more economical than traditional steak strips, making it a go-to weeknight dinner.
If any questions remain, the next FAQ section will clarify common concerns.
FAQs
Is ground beef safe at medium-rare?
According to the USDA, ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it’s free from harmful bacteria.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute regular soy sauce with a certified gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Also, verify your cornstarch and other ingredients are gluten-free.
How do I make this dish less sweet?
Reduce the brown sugar to just 1 tablespoon or swap it out for a sugar alternative like monk fruit sweetener. You can also add more soy sauce or a dash of vinegar to balance sweetness.
What’s the best way to add vegetables?
Chop veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Stir-fry them in the skillet before browning the beef or toss them in right after draining the beef so they cook in the sauce.
Can I use this sauce for other meats?
Definitely. The same sauce works well with chicken, turkey, or even tofu. Just follow similar cooking steps and ensure the meat (or alternative) is properly cooked.
Which noodles pair best?
Lo mein, rice noodles, udon, or even spaghetti all work. For a mongolian ground beef recipe with noodles, simply cook the noodles separately and toss them into the sauce at the end.
Conclusion
This delightful dish proves that flavorful, restaurant-inspired meals don’t have to be reserved for special occasions. When you whip up this Mongolian ground beef, you bring together sweet and savory elements in a way that makes any dinner table feel special. We hope it brings warmth and satisfaction to your next meal—feel free to share your feedback and let us know how you’ve customized it!