Mongolian Beef and Noodle Recipe

Mongolian Beef and Noodles is the kind of recipe that brings bold flavor and comfort together in one irresistible bowl. Tender strips of beef are seared to perfection, then coated in a sweet and savory soy-based sauce with garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. Tossed together with slurp-worthy noodles and green onions, this dish is quick, satisfying, and packed with takeout-style flair—without the delivery wait.

It’s inspired by the popular Mongolian beef dish you’d find at Asian restaurants but enhanced with the hearty addition of noodles to turn it into a full, filling meal. The flavors are balanced: salty and sweet with a little heat, and the textures are spot-on with juicy beef, chewy noodles, and fresh toppings. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or prepping for a few days ahead, Mongolian Beef and Noodles is one of those dishes that delivers on every front—fast, flavorful, and far better than takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy – Comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
2. Takeout Flavor at Home – Tastes just like your favorite restaurant dish, but fresher.
3. Versatile – Works with different types of noodles and proteins.
4. Family-Friendly – Sweet and savory sauce is a hit with kids and adults alike.
5. Meal Prep Hero – Makes great leftovers and reheats beautifully.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• Flank steak or sirloin beef, thinly sliced
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Cornstarch
• Green onions
• Noodles (lo mein, ramen, rice noodles, or spaghetti)
• Sesame oil
• Vegetable oil
• Water or beef broth
• Optional: red pepper flakes, hoisin sauce, sesame seeds

Variations

• Spicy Mongolian Beef: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles or over cauliflower rice.
• Vegetarian Twist: Swap beef for mushrooms or tofu.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free noodles.
• Add Veggies: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain, rinse, and set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Beef

Slice beef thinly against the grain and toss with cornstarch to coat evenly. Let sit for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over high heat. Add beef in a single layer and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add sesame oil, garlic, and ginger; sauté for 30 seconds. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, and water or broth. Simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the beef to the pan and toss to coat. Add noodles and green onions. Stir until everything is evenly coated and heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Slice beef very thinly for quick, even cooking. Partially freezing it first helps.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef—do it in batches if needed.
• Adjust sweetness by using less brown sugar or balancing with a splash of rice vinegar.
• Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor.
• Toss noodles quickly to prevent sticking and overcooking.

How to Serve

• Serve in large bowls with chopsticks for a fun, takeout-style feel.
• Pair with steamed dumplings or egg rolls for a complete meal.
• Add a simple cucumber salad or pickled veggies on the side.
• Drizzle with chili oil for extra flavor.
• Serve with a wedge of lime for a citrusy twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooked beef and sauce (without noodles) for up to 2 months. Cook fresh noodles when ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles.

FAQs

1. What’s the best cut of beef to use?

Flank steak is ideal, but sirloin or skirt steak also works well.

2. Can I use pre-cooked noodles?

Yes! Just rinse them before tossing into the pan to prevent sticking.

3. Is this dish spicy?

Not unless you add spice. You can adjust the heat with chili flakes or hot sauce.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. Just store the noodles and beef separately if possible.

5. What kind of noodles work best?

Lo mein, udon, rice noodles, ramen, or even spaghetti are all great options.

6. Can I use ground beef instead of sliced?

You can, but the texture will be different—still delicious, just less traditional.

7. How do I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).

8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas are all great additions.

9. Is Mongolian beef actually Mongolian?

No, it’s a Chinese-American dish popularized by restaurants like PF Chang’s.

10. What sides go well with this?

Steamed rice, Asian cucumber salad, or simple sautéed greens.

Conclusion

Mongolian Beef and Noodles is the ultimate homemade takeout-style meal—flavorful, fast, and full of satisfying texture. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving bold, umami-packed comfort food, this dish delivers every time. With customizable ingredients and a sauce that’s equal parts savory and sweet, it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try—you might never order takeout again!

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