Mongolian Beef and Noodles: A Flavor-Packed Stir-Fry You’ll Love

Tender beef, savory noodles, and a rich, flavorful sauce—this Mongolian beef and noodles recipe is the perfect way to bring restaurant-quality Asian cuisine to your dinner table. The combination of thinly sliced beef, stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and a sweet-savory sauce, creates a dish that is both delicious and incredibly easy to make at home.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make the best Mongolian beef and noodles from scratch. We’ll cover essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and expert tips to achieve that perfectly tender beef and well-coated noodles.

Let’s dive into this irresistible stir-fry dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special homemade feast.

The Key to Tender Mongolian Beef

One of the standout features of this dish is its ultra-tender beef. The secret lies in selecting the right cut of meat and using traditional Chinese tenderizing techniques.

Best Cut of Meat for Mongolian Beef

For this recipe, you’ll want beef that stays juicy and tender when stir-fried. Here are the best options:

• Flank Steak – The most commonly used cut for Mongolian beef. It’s lean, flavorful, and absorbs marinades well.
• Sirloin – A slightly more tender cut that works great in stir-fries.
• Ribeye – For an extra indulgent version, ribeye offers the best marbling and tenderness.

How to Make Beef Extra Tender

Chinese restaurants use a technique called “velveting” to ensure the beef remains soft and juicy. Here’s how you can replicate it at home:

1. Marinate with Cornstarch & Baking Soda – Coat the sliced beef with ½ teaspoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to break down tough muscle fibers.
2. Let It Rest – Allow the beef to marinate for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
3. Use High Heat – Stir-frying over high heat ensures the meat sears quickly, locking in moisture.

By following these simple steps, you’ll get restaurant-quality Mongolian beef and Noodles every single time.

Essential Ingredients for Mongolian Beef and Noodles

Before we start cooking, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for this dish.

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Flank Steak	1 lb	Thinly sliced against the grain
Cornstarch	2 tbsp	For velveting the beef
Baking Soda	½ tsp	Tenderizes the meat
Soy Sauce	½ cup	Use low-sodium for balance
Brown Sugar	⅓ cup	Creates the signature sweet-salty sauce
Garlic	4 cloves	Minced for extra flavor
Ginger	1 tbsp	Freshly grated
Green Onions	3 stalks	Sliced for garnish
Sesame Oil	1 tbsp	Enhances the aroma
Hoisin Sauce	2 tbsp	Adds depth to the sauce
Beef Broth	½ cup	Helps create a rich sauce
Noodles	8 oz	Lo mein, rice noodles, or spaghetti

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Mongolian Beef and Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips.
2. In a bowl, mix the beef with cornstarch and baking soda. Toss well to coat. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, beef broth, and sesame oil.
2. Set the sauce aside for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

1. Boil water in a large pot and cook the noodles according to package instructions.
2. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef

1. Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil.
2. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned.
3. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Cook the Aromatics

1. In the same pan, add a bit more oil and stir-fry the garlic and ginger until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Return the beef to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well.
2. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle with green onions and serve hot.

Variations and Customizations

This Mongolian Beef and Noodles recipe is highly adaptable. Here are some ways to switch things up:

Alternative Noodle Choices

• Lo Mein – Traditional and chewy, ideal for stir-fries.
• Rice Noodles – A gluten-free option that absorbs sauce well.
• Spaghetti – An easy, pantry-friendly alternative.

Vegetable Additions

Want to add more color and nutrients? Try these:

• Broccoli – Adds a satisfying crunch.
• Bell Peppers – Sweet and colorful.
• Snap Peas – Fresh and crisp.

For more inspiration on beef-based dinners, check out this Smoked Beef Roast recipe for another delicious meal idea.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the simplest recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are a few things to watch out for:

1. Overcrowding the Pan – Stir-fry in small batches to avoid steaming the beef.
2. Skipping the Velveting Step – Marinating the beef properly makes a huge difference in tenderness.
3. Not Cooking on High Heat – Stir-fries require high heat for the best texture.

For another hearty dinner option, try this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake—a comforting baked dish with creamy sauce and rich flavors.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. With a few tweaks, you can customize your Mongolian beef and noodles to suit different dietary needs, preferences, or even available ingredients.

How to Adjust the Spice Level in Mongolian Beef and Noodles

If you love a bit of heat in your stir-fry, here’s how you can spice things up:

• Add Red Pepper Flakes – Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
• Use Chili Paste (Sambal Oelek) – A teaspoon mixed into the sauce will give a noticeable kick.
• Sliced Fresh Chili Peppers – Add thinly sliced serrano or Thai chilies while stir-frying the garlic and ginger.

On the other hand, if you prefer a milder Mongolian beef and noodles dish, simply omit any spicy elements.

Healthier Alternatives for Mongolian Beef and Noodles

For a lighter version Mongolian Beef and Noodles, consider these substitutions:

• Swap Out Sugar – Use honey or a sugar-free alternative.
• Reduce Sodium – Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and use less hoisin sauce.
• Use Leaner Meat – Instead of flank steak, try sirloin or even chicken breast for a leaner protein.

If you’re looking for more comforting yet nutritious dinner ideas, this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup is another great choice. It’s packed with flavor while being family-friendly.

Best Noodle Choices for Mongolian Beef and Noodles

Not a fan of traditional noodles? Here are some alternatives that work just as well:

• Zucchini Noodles – A low-carb substitute that pairs well with the sauce.
• Brown Rice Noodles – A gluten-free option that soaks up flavors beautifully.
• Whole Wheat Spaghetti – Adds a fiber boost while keeping the texture similar.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Mongolian Beef and Noodles

This dish is already packed with bold flavors, but adding a well-matched side dish can make it even better.

Vegetable Side Dishes for Mongolian Beef and Noodles

• Garlic Stir-Fried Bok Choy – A fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich beef.
• Steamed Broccoli – Lightly seasoned, this side balances the sweetness of the sauce.
• Spicy Szechuan Green Beans – Adds a bit of crunch and heat to complement the noodles.

Perfect Accompaniments for Mongolian Beef and Noodles

• Egg Drop Soup – A light and comforting soup to start the meal.
• Asian Cucumber Salad – Refreshing and tangy, perfect for cutting through the richness.
• Steamed Dumplings – Adds variety and makes for a hearty, filling dinner.

For another delicious and well-balanced meal, check out this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl—a fusion dish packed with vibrant flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Conclusion

Mongolian Beef and Noodles is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen. With tender beef, perfectly coated noodles, and a rich, savory sauce, it’s no wonder this meal is a favorite among home cooks.

By following the tips in this guide, you can make this dish exactly how you like it—whether you prefer it spicier, lighter, or packed with extra vegetables. Pair it with a refreshing side dish, and you’ve got a well-rounded, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

So why not give it a try tonight? Grab your wok, heat up that skillet, and enjoy the magic of homemade Mongolian Beef and Noodles!