Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with savory sweetness and a touch of spice, look no further than this Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe. It combines tender, flavorful ground beef with a luscious sauce made from simple pantry staples, delivering a meal that feels both comforting and exciting. Perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you want a fast dish that doesn’t skimp on taste, this recipe’s quick cooking time and rich flavors will quickly make it a family favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple yet essential, these ingredients come together to create a perfect harmony of tastes and textures. Each component plays a critical role, from the hearty ground beef providing rich protein to the fragrant scallions adding fresh, vibrant color.

• 1 pound lean ground beef: The star protein, lean to keep the dish balanced but juicy enough to soak up the sauce.
• 1 small bunch scallions (green parts only), cut into 1-inch pieces: Adds a mild onion flavor and a crisp pop of green color.
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar: Brings that signature sweetness that balances the savory soy sauce perfectly.
• 1/3 cup water: Helps create a smooth sauce consistency.
• 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce: Provides that deep, salty umami flavor without overpowering the beef.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a luscious glaze that clings to every bite.
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Adds a bright, zesty warmth that wakes up the palate.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: A must for that aromatic foundation and added depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle kick for those who like a little heat.

How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and adding the ground beef. As it cooks, break it up with your spoon to ensure even browning and prevent clumps. This step takes about 8 to 10 minutes, and it’s where the rich base of flavor develops. If there’s excess fat, spoon it out to keep the dish light but still juicy.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

While the beef is cooking, whisk together the brown sugar, water, soy sauce, cornstarch, grated ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This simple mixture will become your thick, savory-sweet sauce, the heart of the Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer with Scallions

Once the beef is nicely browned, add the scallions right into the skillet, then pour the sauce mixture over everything. Stir to combine, and continue cooking for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and scallions perfectly. This is when all those flavors meld into a mouthwatering dish.

Step 4: Final Seasoning and Serve

Give the Mongolian Ground Beef a taste and season with salt and pepper if needed. Serve it hot over rice or noodles to soak up the sauce and enjoy!

How to Serve Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra chopped scallions or toasted sesame seeds on top to add freshness and a subtle crunch. A few sprigs of cilantro can also brighten the dish with a pop of herbaceous flavor, making each bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

The savory-sweet nature of Mongolian Ground Beef pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or soft noodles, which absorb the sauce beautifully. For a healthy contrast, serve with sautéed bok choy or steamed broccoli to add some vibrant green veggies to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning the beef over crispy wonton cups or stuffing it inside lettuce wraps for a fun, hand-held twist. It also works wonderfully as a filling for rice paper rolls or even a topping for baked potatoes if you’re feeling adventurous!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your Mongolian Ground Beef to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will even deepen, making your leftovers taste just as good—if not better!

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked beef in a sealed freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label it with the date so you enjoy it fresh later on.

Reheating

Reheat the leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickened too much during storage to bring back that perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just watch the cooking time as these meats can dry out faster than beef, and consider adding a bit of oil to keep the dish moist.

Is the crushed red pepper flakes ingredient necessary?

No, the crushed red pepper flakes are optional and only added if you like a little heat. You can omit them entirely or adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

What can I substitute for cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or flour as a thickening agent, but be sure to mix it with water first to avoid lumps.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just make sure you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

How long does it take to make the Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a fantastic option for a quick but impressive dinner on busy nights.

Final Thoughts

Once you make this Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe, it will quickly become one of those go-to dishes that you reach for time and again when you want something hearty, flavorful, and simple to prepare. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or even enjoying as a comforting solo meal. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to this delightful recipe—you’ll be so glad you did!

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