Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef

Ingredients
🍜 For the Noodles and Beef:
8 oz (225 g) lo mein or spaghetti noodles
1 lb (450 g) ground beef 🥩
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped 🧅
3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced 🌿
2 cups broccoli florets (optional) 🥦
🧄 For the Mongolian Sauce:
1/3 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
1/3 cup brown sugar 🟤
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water
🍽️ For Garnish (Optional):
Chopped green onions 🌿
Sesame seeds
Directions
1️⃣ Cook the Noodles:
Boil the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove any excess grease from the skillet.
3️⃣ Sauté Aromatics:
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet with the cooked beef. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until fragrant.
4️⃣ Cook the Broccoli (Optional):
If using broccoli, add it to the skillet and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
5️⃣ Prepare the Mongolian Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture.
6️⃣ Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
7️⃣ Combine with Noodles:
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
8️⃣ Serve:
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add more veggies like carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Adjust sweetness and saltiness by tweaking the brown sugar and soy sauce quantities to taste.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: ~35 minutes
Servings: 4