Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe

If you’re hunting for a show-stopper weeknight dinner, Mongolian Beef Noodles are a delicious twist on classic takeout with crave-worthy, sticky-sweet beef, tender noodles, and crisp-tender veggies—all tossed in a glossy, garlicky sauce. This is comfort food at its finest, and it comes together faster (and tastier!) than ordering in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s be honest: the magic of Mongolian Beef Noodles lies in simple, easy-to-find ingredients coming together in an epic way. Each one has a starring role, adding savory depth, rich texture, or that signature glossy sheen every noodle lover chases.

• Flank steak: Slice it thin against the grain for juicy, tender bites that soak up the sauce.
• Cornstarch: Lightly coats the beef so it crisps up beautifully and helps thicken that dreamy sauce.
• Vegetable oil: Just enough to get a quick golden sear on the beef (add more for batches if needed).
• Green bell pepper: Sliced into strips for a pop of bright flavor and color that pairs perfectly with the rich beef.
• Ramen noodles: The perfect chewy base to absorb all that sweet and savory sauce—look for them in the Asian section.
• Green onions: For a fresh, peppery finish that makes every bite sing.
• Sesame oil: Adds irresistible nutty fragrance and authentic depth.
• Soy sauce (low sodium): The foundation of the sauce—choose reduced-sodium to keep flavors balanced and not too salty.
• Brown sugar: Delivers a sticky-sweet gloss that hugs every noodle and beef strip.
• Chicken broth (low or no sodium): Helps round out the sauce so it’s perfectly sippable and never too salty.
• Garlic: Four cloves (yes!) for big, bold flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: Adds just a hint of heat—feel free to play with the quantity according to your spice preference.

Variations

One of the best things about Mongolian Beef Noodles is how easy it is to riff on the basics—so don’t be shy about making it your own! Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, want more veggies, or need a gluten-free option, there’s plenty of room to play.

• Swap Your Noodle: Udon, soba, or even rice noodles all work deliciously if you want to change up the texture or make things gluten-free.
• Add Extra Veggies: Broccoli, snap peas, thin-sliced carrots, or baby bok choy are all fabulous choices for extra color and crunch.
• Crank Up the Heat: Love it spicy? Add more red pepper flakes or toss in a spoonful of chili-garlic paste for serious fire.
• Go Lighter: Sub sliced sirloin or chicken breast for the beef, or use tofu and vegetarian “oyster” sauce for a plant-based version that’s still wildly satisfying.

How to Make Mongolian Beef Noodles

Step 1: Prep and Coat the Beef

Begin by slicing your flank steak thinly against the grain—this is key for tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites. Pop the beef into a large zip-top bag, sprinkle in the cornstarch, seal, and give it a good shake until every piece is lightly (but completely) coated. This quick step helps the meat crisp up beautifully in the pan.

Step 2: Sear in Batches

Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Once shimmering hot, add the beef in a single layer (don’t crowd it—work in 2-3 batches if needed!). Sear until the strips are browned and crisp on the edges, flipping once for even color. Transfer each cooked batch to a plate and add extra oil if the pan looks dry.

Step 3: Soften the Veggies

Now, toss those bell pepper strips into the empty skillet and cook for a couple of minutes, just until they lose their bite but still retain a pop of color—they shouldn’t get mushy. Remove them to a plate for now.

Step 4: Simmer the Signature Sauce

In the same pan, pour in your sesame oil, then add soy sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let it bubble gently over medium heat for about 10 minutes—watch as it thickens and becomes glossy, filling your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma!

Step 5: Cook the Ramen Noodles

While the sauce works its magic, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions—generally a quick 3-4 minute boil. Drain and set them aside, ready to soak up all that luscious sauce.

Step 6: Toss Everything Together

Back to the skillet! Slide in the browned beef and bell pepper, pour in the ramen noodles, and use tongs to toss everything until each noodle and strip of beef is luxuriously coated. Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped green onions, then serve piping hot.

How to Serve Mongolian Beef Noodles

Garnishes

Scatter extra chopped green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top of your Mongolian Beef Noodles for fresh contrast and crunch. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of chili oil or even a few cilantro leaves add a bright, herby kick.

Side Dishes

This saucy noodle dish is a meal in itself, but it plays nicely with crisp Asian slaw, steamed dumplings, or simply some sautéed greens like bok choy or broccoli. A quick cucumber salad brings welcome coolness alongside the rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Twirl the noodles into high piles on individual plates and top with beef or serve family-style in a big, shallow bowl for extra drama. Try serving Mongolian Beef Noodles in fun takeout-style boxes or pile into lettuce cups for a playful dinner party twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Mongolian Beef Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making next-day meals just as exciting as the first serving.

Freezing

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it in portioned airtight containers for up to one month. The noodles may soften a bit upon thawing, but the beef and sauce will still shine—definitely a lifesaver for future quick dinners!

Reheating

Reheat Mongolian Beef Noodles gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir gently and heat just until warmed through to keep the beef tender and the noodles from getting mushy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about twirling glossy, saucy Mongolian Beef Noodles and diving in, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or friends dropping by. You’ll love how it delivers on bold flavor and weeknight simplicity—don’t be surprised if this becomes your new favorite comfort food go-to. Give it a try, and let your kitchen be the best takeout spot in town!

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