Name: Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles – A Quick Flavor Explosion
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Flank Steak (You can substitute with skirt steak or ribeye.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Omit for a gluten-free option.); 8 ounces Lo Mein/Udon Noodles (Substitute with spaghetti or linguine if needed.); 1/4 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (Regular soy sauce increases sodium content.); 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (Coconut sugar or honey are alternatives.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic is preferable.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Ground ginger can be used in a pinch.); 1/4 cup Water (Replace with low-sodium broth for extra flavor.); 1 cup Red Bell Pepper (Snow peas or snap peas can be used.); 1/4 cup Green Onions (Chives can be substituted or omitted.); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.)

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The tantalizing aroma of garlic and ginger fills my kitchen as I prepare to whip up a dish that has become a weeknight staple in my home: Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can transform into a vibrant, flavorful meal that feels both comforting and gourmet. Picture this: tender strips of beef seared to perfection, coated in a glossy soy-based sauce that dances with flavors, paired with chewy noodles and fresh vegetables for a satisfying crunch.

When life gets hectic, making dinner can feel like a daunting chore—but this dish is here to save the day! Ready in under 30 minutes, Mongolian Beef Noodles deliver a delightful take-out experience right in the heart of your home. And the best part? You can customize each plate to your liking, whether that means adding extra veggies or switching out the beef for a meat-free option. Ready to impress your family or treat yourself to something special? Let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe that guarantees a delicious dinner without the fuss!

Why are Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles so popular?

Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying dinner that takes the stress out of weeknight cooking.

Bold Flavor: The unique blend of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a rich, savory experience that’s sure to please any palate.

Customizable: Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer plant-based options, you can easily adapt this dish to suit your tastes.

Textural Delight: Tender beef, chewy noodles, and crisp vegetables combine for a mouthwatering experience that’s reminiscent of your favorite takeout.

Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe is quick to make and absolutely delicious, making it perfect for family meals or impressing guests. If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dinner, you might also love this Savory Sheet Pan option!

Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles Ingredients

• Discover the essential components for this delicious dish!

For the Beef

Flank Steak – Offers rich flavor and tenderness; skirt steak or ribeye can enhance the taste.
Cornstarch – Creates a crispy coating on the beef; omit for a gluten-free twist.

For the Noodles

Lo Mein/Udon Noodles – The hearty base; substitute with spaghetti or linguine if needed.

For the Sauce

Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides a savory depth; regular soy sauce works but increases sodium content.
Brown Sugar – Balances the salty notes; coconut sugar or honey are great alternatives.
Garlic – Infuses bold flavor; fresh garlic is preferable for more intensity.
Fresh Ginger – Adds warmth and a hint of spice; substitute with ground ginger in a pinch.
Water – Ensures a smooth sauce consistency; replace with low-sodium broth for extra flavor.

For the Vegetables

Red Bell Pepper – Adds a crunchy, fresh element; snow peas or snap peas can be switched in.
Green Onions – Enhances the dish with mild onion notes; chives can be a substitute or omit as desired.

For Cooking

Sesame Oil – Imparts essential nuttiness during stir-frying; vegetable oil can substitute but misses that distinctive flavor.

These savory Mongolian Beef Noodles are a feast for the senses and easily tailored to your tastes!

How to Make Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles

Prepare the Beef: Toss the sliced flank steak with cornstarch and let it sit for 10 minutes. This helps achieve that perfect crispy texture when cooked.
Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, fresh ginger, and water until well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
Sear the Beef: Heat sesame oil in a wok or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped red bell pepper and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant.
Combine & Simmer: Return the seared beef to the pan, pour in the prepared sauce, and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, enveloping the beef perfectly.
Toss with Noodles: Add the cooked lo mein or udon noodles to the pan, tossing gently until they are evenly coated with the glossy sauce and heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
Garnish & Serve: Plate the noodles and beef mixture, garnishing with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve immediately for the best experience!

Optional: Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chili flakes for an extra kick!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles

Slice Against the Grain: For the most tender bites, slicing the flank steak against the grain makes a significant difference in texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Searing the beef in batches prevents steaming and ensures that each piece gets that delicious, crispy exterior.
Use Fresh Aromatics: Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the dish’s flavor profile. Avoid using powdered substitutes when possible for the best taste.
Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water (or broth) to maintain that glossy, silky texture of the Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles.
Customize to Taste: Feel free to toss in extra veggies or switch out the beef for tofu or mushrooms to suit your dietary preferences!
Store Smartly: Leftovers are great but ensure you cool the noodles completely before storing to maintain their deliciousness when reheated.

Variations & Substitutions for Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make this dish your own!

Vegetarian: Swap out beef for tofu or tempeh for a hearty plant-based option. It absorbs the flavors beautifully and adds a satisfying texture.
Gluten-Free: Use rice noodles or zucchini noodles instead of lo mein or udon for a light and gluten-free meal. You’ll still enjoy that wonderful sauciness!
Spicy Kick: Add chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce for an exciting heat level. Just a pinch can transform the flavor profile!
Extra Crunch: Swap red bell pepper for snap peas or water chestnuts for added crunch and freshness. Each bite will pop with texture!
Flavor Varieties: Incorporate a splash of hoisin sauce for sweetness or add Szechuan peppercorns for a unique twist that elevates the spice level.
Sauce Brilliance: Try using teriyaki sauce instead of soy for a sweeter twist. It gives a different layer of flavor while still staying deliciously rich.
Crispy Veggies: Toss in some baby corn or broccoli, sautéing them until tender-crisp for added color and nutrition. It’s a vibrant way to enhance your dish!
Noodle Alternatives: If you don’t have lo mein or udon, spaghetti or egg noodles can step in just fine, capturing that savory sauce and completing the meal.

Customize your Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles in any way that tickles your taste buds, making each serving unique. Happy cooking!

Storage Tips for Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles

Fridge: Store any leftover noodles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to retain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the noodles in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Separate portions for easy reheating later.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the noodles in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water to keep the sauce silky and prevent drying out.
Airtight Reminder: Always store your Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles in airtight containers to maintain flavor and texture during storage.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes during your busy weeknight dinners! You can slice the flank steak and toss it with cornstarch, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to maintain its crispy coating. Additionally, mix the sauce (soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and water) and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sear the beef and sauté the vegetables as instructed, then add the sauce and cooked noodles for a quick finish. This way, you can enjoy the same freshly prepared flavors while reducing meal prep time!

What to Serve with Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles?

Elevate your dining experience with the perfect sides that complement the vibrant flavors of this quick and easy dish.

Steamed Broccoli: Infuses a fresh, green crunch that balances the richness of the beef and sauce.
Egg Rolls: Crisp and savory, these make a delightful appetizer or side that adds a satisfying crunch.
Sesame Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad offers a light, tangy contrast to the savory noodles, making each bite a pleasure.
Fried Rice: Adding a hearty serving of fried rice can round out the meal with extra texture and flavor to enhance the experience.
Wontons: Soft and flavorful, these dumplings can complement the bold flavors of the noodles, making for a comforting pairing.
Hot and Sour Soup: A warming soup adds a contrasting flavor to the meal, bringing a little spice and tang that harmonizes beautifully with the noodles.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy option balances the savory notes of the main dish, leaving you with a delightful finale.

Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right flank steak?
Absolutely! Look for flank steak that is bright red with a bit of marbling. The marbling indicates tenderness and flavor. If your local store is out of flank steak, both skirt steak and ribeye can work beautifully, offering a different but delightful taste in your Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles.

What’s the best way to store leftover Mongolian Beef Noodles?
To store, allow your noodles to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a skillet on medium heat with a splash of water to keep them from drying out and to maintain that glossy sauce.

Can I freeze Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles?
Yes! You can freeze these noodles for up to 2 months. To do so, wait until the dish is completely cooled, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out excess air to prevent freezer burn, and when ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of water as needed for moisture.

What should I do if my sauce gets too thick?
If your sauce thickens too much, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of water or low-sodium broth to the pan while reheating. This will help restore the glossy, silky texture that makes Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles so delightful. Stir until you achieve the desired consistency, and consider tasting to adjust seasoning as necessary.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Of course! The dish can be easily tailored for dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch. If you have a soy allergy, try using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. For a vegetarian or vegan variation, substitute flank steak with tofu or mushrooms, and ensure that the other ingredients are packaged without animal products.

How can I customize the flavors in my Mongolian Beef Noodles?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables—broccoli, snap peas, or carrots can all be great additions. For a spicier kick, mix in chili paste or red pepper flakes into the sauce. Additionally, experimenting with different types of noodles like rice noodles or even zucchini noodles can bring exciting new flavors and textures to your Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles!

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