Craving a quick, flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make? This Mongolian ground beef recipe is the perfect answer! With its savory-sweet sauce, tender beef, and rich umami flavors, it brings all the comfort of takeout—right to your kitchen.
Whether you’re short on time or looking for a budget-friendly dinner, this dish comes together in just minutes using simple pantry staples like soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a meal that’s packed with bold flavors and effortless charm.
Table of Contents
What is Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe?
Mongolian ground beef recipe is a quick, flavorful twist on the classic Mongolian beef dish, typically made with flank steak. By using ground beef, this version becomes more affordable, faster to cook, and just as delicious. The key to its bold, restaurant-quality flavor lies in the sweet and savory sauce made from a blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
This dish is perfect for:
- Busy weeknights – ready in under 20 minutes
- Meal prep – stores and reheats beautifully
- Budget-friendly meals – uses simple pantry ingredients
- Versatile serving options – pairs well with rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps
With its rich umami taste and caramelized sauce, this Mongolian ground beef recipe delivers all the indulgence of takeout—without the wait or the price tag!
Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s go over the simple yet flavorful ingredients you’ll need for this Mongolian ground beef recipe. Each component plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors.
For the Beef
- 1 lb ground beef – Choose 80/20 or lean ground beef for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Enhances the dish with a rich, nutty aroma.
For the Sauce
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce – Adds a deep umami base without overpowering the dish.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Balances the saltiness with a touch of sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger (minced) – Brings warmth and depth to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Enhances the bold flavors with a fragrant kick.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce for a glossy finish.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a subtle heat for extra depth.
For Garnish & Serving
- 3 green onions (chopped) – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds – Optional but great for texture and visual appeal.
- Steamed white rice or noodles – The perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce.
With just these simple pantry staples, you’ll have everything needed to whip up a dish that’s quick, comforting, and packed with bold Asian-inspired flavors!
The Directions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the simple steps to make this Mongolian ground beef recipe. This dish comes together quickly, so be sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!
1. Cook the Ground Beef
- Warm a large frying pan or wok on medium-high heat.
- Add sesame oil, then toss in the ground beef.
- Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the meat into crumbles.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
- Drain any excess grease if needed, then set the beef aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Minced garlic
- Minced ginger
- Cornstarch
- Red pepper flakes (if using)
- Stir well until the brown sugar dissolves and the cornstarch is fully incorporated. This creates a smooth, flavorful sauce that will coat the beef perfectly.
3. Combine Everything
- Place the cooked ground beef back into the pan.
- Pour the Mongolian sauce over the beef, stirring to coat evenly.
- Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the meat.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, letting the flavors soak in for a satisfying bite.
This dish is ready in under 20 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or meal-prep favorite. Simple, quick, and bursting with flavor—you’ll want to make this again and again!
How to Prepare the Ultimate Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe
Cooking a Mongolian ground beef recipe is already simple, but a few key techniques can take it from good to great. Follow these expert tips to ensure the best texture, flavor, and presentation every time!
1. Use the Right Ground Beef
- Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
- If using leaner beef, add a splash of water or broth to keep it juicy.
- For an even healthier option, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken while keeping the same seasoning.
2. Brown the Beef Properly
- Cook over medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear.
- Avoid stirring too often—let the beef develop a slight crust for added texture.
- Drain excess grease to prevent a greasy sauce.
3. Perfect the Sauce
- Dissolve the brown sugar completely before adding it to the pan to ensure a smooth, caramelized glaze.
- Adjust sweetness or saltiness by tweaking the soy sauce-to-brown sugar ratio.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add ½ teaspoon more cornstarch.
4. Add Depth with Fresh Ingredients
- Fresh garlic and ginger make a world of difference—skip the powdered versions if possible.
- A splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice can add brightness.
- Want extra heat? Increase red pepper flakes or toss in a few sliced red chilies.
5. Serve It Right
- The best pairings include steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or stir-fried noodles.
- For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for a final touch of freshness and crunch.
By following these simple tricks, your Mongolian ground beef recipe will have restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Give it a try and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this Mongolian ground beef recipe is its versatility! Whether you’re looking to adjust flavors, swap ingredients, or make it a little healthier, here are some great ways to customize this dish to your liking.
1. Protein Swaps
- Ground Turkey or Chicken – For a leaner alternative, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken while keeping the same seasonings.
- Plant-Based Option – Use crumbled tofu, lentils, or plant-based ground “beef” for a vegetarian-friendly twist.
- Thinly Sliced Beef – If you want a more traditional Mongolian beef texture, swap ground beef for thinly sliced flank steak.
2. Sauce Adjustments
- Less Sweet? Reduce the brown sugar slightly for a more savory dish.
- More Umami? Add a splash of hoisin sauce or a teaspoon of oyster sauce for deeper flavor.
- Extra Heat? Increase the red pepper flakes or stir in Sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Thicker Sauce? Add an extra ½ teaspoon of cornstarch for a thicker, glossier texture.
3. Low-Carb or Gluten-Free Options
- Keto-Friendly Version – Swap brown sugar for a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol and serve over cauliflower rice.
- Gluten-Free Substitute – Opt for tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
4. Extra Add-Ins for Flavor and Texture
- Veggies: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or shredded carrots for added crunch and nutrients.
- Crunch: A sprinkle of crushed peanuts or cashews gives the dish a delicious contrast in texture.
- Aromatics: Stir in fresh basil or cilantro at the end for an herby freshness.
By making a few tweaks, you can easily tailor this Mongolian ground beef recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
Storing Tips
Whether you’re making Mongolian ground beef recipe for a busy week ahead or have leftovers from tonight’s dinner, storing and reheating this dish is simple and convenient. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty for later!
1. Storing Leftovers
- Cool It Down: Let your Mongolian ground beef cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container.
- Refrigeration: It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days without losing flavor or texture.
- Freezing: If you want to make this meal ahead of time, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
2. Reheating
- Microwave: To reheat, place the beef in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.
- Stovetop: For stovetop reheating, place the beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to re-moisten and stir until warmed through.
- Avoid Overheating: Overheating can make the beef dry, so keep an eye on it while reheating.
3. Serving After Storing
- If you’ve stored the beef and want to serve it over rice or noodles again, freshly cooked rice or noodles will pair perfectly with the reheated beef.
- Add a fresh sprinkle of green onions and a dash of sesame oil to revive that just-cooked taste.
By following these simple storing and reheating tips, you can enjoy this delicious Mongolian ground beef recipe for several days, making it an easy and convenient option for meal prep or leftovers!
Conclusion
There you have it – an easy, flavorful, and satisfying Mongolian ground beef recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite in your home! With its rich savory sauce and tender beef, this dish brings the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors to your plate. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s simple to make and always delicious.
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients, adjust the heat, or try different proteins to suit your taste. The best part? This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a comforting homemade meal without the hassle. Happy cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite of your Mongolian ground beef!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different protein for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian version.
2. How do I make the sauce spicier?
If you love a little heat, try adding extra red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or even fresh chopped chili peppers to the sauce.
3. Can I freeze leftover Mongolian ground beef?
Yes! Leftover beef can be stored in an airtight container and frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the dish to cool fully before storing in the freezer.
4. What can I serve Mongolian ground beef with?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
5. How do I store the Mongolian ground beef?
Refrigerate your leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave or warm it on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Do you have questions about mongolian ground beef recipe? Drop them in the comments and let’s get cooking!
About the Author
Lillian is a seasoned culinary expert with over 10 years of experience in the kitchen. As the founder of Warmth Recipes, she combines her love for cooking with a passion for teaching others to create simple, yet delicious meals at home. With a focus on approachable techniques and flavorful ingredients, Lillian aims to inspire cooks of all skill levels to enjoy the process of preparing home-cooked meals.