This Mongolian Ground Beef recipe is a delightful twist on traditional Mongolian flavors, bringing savory, sweet, and umami notes together in a quick and easy dish. Ground beef is sautéed to perfection and tossed in a luscious sauce that features soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger, making it a satisfying option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This dish is perfect served over rice or noodles, and the rich flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this Mongolian ground beef recipe for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The combination of tender ground beef and a sweet-savory sauce creates a harmony of taste that is hard to resist. In just 30 minutes, you can have a wholesome meal on the table, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights. Plus, it can easily fit various dietary lifestyles, whether you’re looking for a protein-packed dish or a gluten-free alternative with some simple swaps.
Tips and Tricks
To make your cooking experience even smoother, here are some handy tips:
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for an authentic flavor boost. If you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic and ginger work well too.
- For a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to the sauce.
- Cook the beef in batches if you’re using a large skillet to avoid steaming it. This will ensure you get that beautiful browning that adds depth to the dish.
- Serve over freshly steamed rice or sautéed vegetables to elevate the meal.
Make Ahead Tips
This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can:
- Cook the ground beef and sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Pre-chop the vegetables and store them in airtight containers to save time on busy nights.
- The dish can also be frozen for up to three months. Just reheat it in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking:
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add colorful bell peppers or broccoli for extra veggies and nutrition.
- For a vegetarian version, use crumbled tofu or tempeh sautéed in the same sauce.
- Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or green onions for added freshness.
How to Serve
Serve your Mongolian ground beef over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad pairs beautifully with this dish, creating a balanced meal.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your meal, consider pairing it with:
- A light and refreshing white wine, such as Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc.
- For a cocktail, a ginger beer or a simple mojito can enhance the flavors.
- Serve with a side of steamed dumplings or spring rolls for an Asian-inspired feast.
- For dessert, a scoop of green tea ice cream or mango sticky rice would be delightful.
How to Store
To store leftovers:
- Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to three days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cooked Mongolian beef in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
You will need:
- A large skillet or wok for sautéing the ground beef.
- A wooden spoon for stirring.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient quantities.
- A cutting board and knife for chopping ingredients.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe more inclusive:
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- To make it dairy-free, simply omit any toppings that contain dairy.
- For a vegan adaptation, substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu and use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Seasonal Adaptations
Depending on the season, you can modify the ingredients:
- In spring, add fresh asparagus or snap peas for a seasonal touch.
- In the fall, consider incorporating roasted pumpkin or butternut squash for a hearty twist.
- Use fresh herbs and vegetables that are in season to enhance flavor and nutrition.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work well.
- How can I make it spicier? Add red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the sauce.
- What can I serve with it? It pairs well with rice, noodles, or even wrapped in lettuce for a fresh take.
- How long does it take to cook? The entire recipe takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick meal option.
How To Make mongolian ground beef recipe
Mongolian Ground Beef

This Mongolian Ground Beef recipe is a delightful twist on traditional Mongolian flavors, bringing savory, sweet, and umami notes together in a quick and easy dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain excess fat if necessary, then add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve over cooked rice or noodles and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 479Total Fat 21gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 101mgSodium 984mgCarbohydrates 35gFiber 1gSugar 12gProtein 35g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Mongolian ground beef recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that is both comforting and easy to make. It’s perfect for family dinners or when entertaining guests. With its versatility, you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. I hope you give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness as much as I do!