Name: Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles: The Best Quick Dinner Ever
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound flank steak (cut into thin strips); 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for coating the beef); 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for sweetness); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated); 8 ounces lo mein or udon noodles (cooked); 1 medium red bell pepper (sliced); 2 stalks green onions (chopped); 2 tablespoons sesame oil

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When the clock ticks towards dinner time and I’m facing a busy weeknight, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a bowl of homemade Mongolian Beef Noodles. The anticipation starts as I slice tender strips of beef, just waiting to hit the hot skillet and sizzle — the rich aroma of garlic and ginger filling my kitchen. In under 30 minutes, this dish transforms into a savory masterpiece, combining chewy noodles and glossy sauce that rivals anything from my local takeout spot.

With every bite, you’ll discover the balance of salty and sweet, effortlessly blending the flavors into a dish that’s not just quick and easy but also a total crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a last-minute gathering with friends, these Mongolian Beef Noodles promise to deliver that satisfying taste without the fuss. So, let’s grab our ingredients and dive into this delightful recipe that brings the comfort of Asian cuisine right to our own tables!

Why are Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles so special?

Ease and Speed: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Bold Flavors: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet—truly irresistible!
One-Pan Wonder: No need for multiple dishes; everything cooks in one pan, cutting down on cleanup time.
Customizable: Want to cater to dietary needs? Easily swap out beef for tofu or veggies!
Crowd-Pleaser: The rich flavors and comforting textures make it an instant hit with friends and family, rivaling your favorite takeout. For other easy and delicious ideas, check out our Savory Sheet Pan recipes that are sure to impress!

Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles Ingredients

For the Beef
• Flank Steak – Cut into thin strips for tenderness and quick cooking; skirt steak or ribeye are great alternatives.
• Cornstarch – Coats the beef for a crispy texture during searing; ensures a delicious bite.

For the Sauce
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds depth to your sauce; opt for tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the savory elements with a hint of sweetness; it’s essential for that classic flavor!
• Garlic – Freshly minced or powdered, garlic enhances the aromatic profile of the dish.
• Fresh Ginger – Grated provides warmth and spice, elevating the overall taste.

For the Noodles
• Lo Mein/Udon Noodles – Serve as the base for this hearty dish, offering a chewy texture; spaghetti or linguine can work in a pinch.

For the Vegetables
• Red Bell Pepper – Adds freshness and a crunch; feel free to substitute with other bell peppers or snap peas.
• Green Onions – Garnish for both flavor and color; they add a nice finish to your meal.

For Flavor
• Sesame Oil – Essential for that authentic Asian taste; it infuses the dish with a lovely nutty aroma.

These savory Mongolian Beef Noodles not only come together quickly but excite the palate with their vibrancy and taste – a true delight for any home chef!

How to Make Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles

Prepare the Beef: Toss your thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch and let it sit for 10 minutes. This helps give the beef that wonderful crispy texture when seared.
Whisk the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, fresh ginger, and a splash of water. Whisk until well blended; this sauce will be the flavorful base for your noodles.
Sear the Beef: Heat sesame oil in a wok or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until it’s crisp and golden. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Peppers: In the same pan, add the sliced red bell peppers. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they’re just tender, keeping that lovely crunch intact.
Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything nicely.
Toss the Noodles: Add your cooked lo mein or udon noodles to the pan. Toss to mix thoroughly, ensuring every noodle is coated in that glossy, savory sauce; heat for another minute.
Garnish and Serve: Finish by garnishing with chopped green onions and serve immediately, enjoying the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Optional: Drizzle a little extra sesame oil before serving for enhanced flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing these delicious noodles with complementary sides and drinks.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites filled with vegetables or shrimp provide a delightful contrast to the tender beef and chewy noodles.
Sesame Garlic Green Beans: Fresh green beans sautéed with sesame oil and garlic offer a vibrant crunch and enhance the dish’s Asian flavors.
Steamed Broccoli: The mild taste and textural contrast of fresh broccoli add a nutritious element while balancing the rich sauce.
Garlic Fried Rice: Let the tasty garlic flavor permeate some fluffy rice for a satisfying side that absorbs every bit of delicious sauce.
Miso Soup: This comforting soup, with its umami-packed broth, serves as a perfect light starter to begin your meal.
Chilled Sake: Enjoy a glass of chilled sake to complement the flavors in the noodles, enhancing the overall dining experience with its smoothness.

Let these pairings enhance your homemade meal, transforming your dining table into a cozy little Asian bistro!

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the beef by tossing the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance; this ensures a crispy texture when seared. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to whisk it again before use to blend the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the vegetables and return the beef to the pan, adding your cooked noodles and sauce. This method ensures your meal remains just as delicious, delivering that crave-worthy flavor with minimal effort!

Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own with some delightful twists!

Vegetarian Delight: Substitute beef with firm tofu or mushrooms; sauté until golden for a hearty alternative.
Extra Heat: Add chili paste or sprinkle red pepper flakes to the dish to spice things up. A little heat can go a long way!
Noodle Swap: Use rice noodles or zoodles for a gluten-free version that’s equally delicious and light.
Veggie Boost: Toss in asparagus or bok choy along with the peppers for extra color and nutrition; they’ll add delightful crunch.
Sweet & Savory: Incorporate a splash of hoisin sauce for an added layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory elements.
Nuts for Crunch: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts to bring in extra texture and a lovely nutty flavor.
Citrus Zing: Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the finished dish for a refreshing brightness that elevates the overall taste.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh cilantro or Thai basil before serving; their aromatic qualities enhance the dish, making it even more irresistible!

Expert Tips for Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles

Slice with Care: Ensure tenderness by slicing the beef against the grain. If it’s too soft to cut, freeze for 15 minutes before slicing.
Batch Searing: Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing; this helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust on your beef during cooking.
Noodle Rescue: If you have leftovers, reheat them gently in a pan with a splash of water. This keeps the noodles saucy and prevents the beef from toughening.
Flavor Boost: To enhance the dish, consider adding chili paste or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick in your savory Mongolian Beef Noodles!
Vegetable Flexibility: Feel free to interchange the red bell peppers with snap peas, broccoli, or whatever vegetables you have on hand for added crunch.

Storage Tips for Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles

Fridge: Store cooled noodles in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the freshness of the beef while keeping the noodles soft.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the noodle and beef mixture in airtight bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a pan with a splash of water or broth. This will help revive the sauce and keep the noodles from drying out.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving leftovers out for more than 2 hours. When cooling, let them reach room temperature before refrigerating to ensure safety.

Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe FAQs

Why should I choose flank steak?
Flank steak is a lean cut that’s perfect for this dish due to its tenderness when sliced thin. Slicing against the grain further enhances the texture, giving you juicy bites. If you can’t find flank steak, skirt steak or ribeye are great alternatives with similar cooking properties.

How should I store leftover noodles?
Let the noodles cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain softness, reheat them in a pan with a splash of water, allowing the noodles to soak up moisture and keep the sauce nice and flavorful.

Can I freeze Savory Mongolian Beef Noodles?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze the beef and noodle mixture in airtight bags for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a pan. Adding a splash of water will revive the dish beautifully, preventing any dryness.

What if my sauce is too salty?
If you find your sauce too salty, you can balance it out by adding a bit more brown sugar or a splash of water. Simmer together to blend the flavors. Alternatively, consider increasing the quantity of noodles or veggies, which can help dilute the saltiness while still keeping the dish delicious.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, opt for tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free. You can also make this dish vegetarian by replacing the beef with tofu or mushrooms, ensuring everyone can enjoy the savory goodness of these Mongolian Beef Noodles!

What vegetable substitutions work well?
Feel free to get creative with your veggies! Snap peas, broccoli, or even carrots will add color and texture. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to keep them crisp and vibrant in your dish. The more, the merrier!

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