Mongolian Ground Beef

Introduction

Are you craving the bold, savory flavors of Mongolian beef but want a faster, simpler option? Enter Mongolian Ground Beef — a delicious twist on the classic dish that’s easier to make and just as satisfying. Using ground beef instead of thinly sliced steak reduces prep time and makes this dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Ready to discover how to make this irresistible recipe packed with tender beef, sweet soy sauce, and fragrant ginger?

Ingredients List

1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80% lean for flavor)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 cup water or beef broth
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
3 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Cooked rice or steamed vegetables, for serving

Substitutions & Tips:

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation.
Coconut sugar or maple syrup can replace brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
Gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free diets.

Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

This dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect fast-casual dinner option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions to the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, water (or broth), and cornstarch if using. Pour sauce into the skillet.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

Stir to combine and let simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the beef.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

Stir in red pepper flakes for heat if desired. Garnish with the green parts of the sliced green onions.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot over steamed rice or alongside your favorite stir-fried vegetables.

Tip: For extra texture, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, serves 4)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	15g
Protein	25g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	650mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Use leaner ground beef (90% lean) to reduce fat content.
Replace brown sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit to lower sugar.
Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal.

Serving Suggestions

Pair Mongolian Ground Beef with steamed jasmine rice for an authentic experience.
Add a side of stir-fried broccoli or snap peas to boost vegetable intake.
Use the beef mixture as a filling for lettuce wraps for a fresh, handheld option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the beef: This can dry it out; cook until just browned.
Skipping garlic or ginger: These aromatics are essential for authentic Mongolian flavor.
Not thickening the sauce: Use cornstarch to achieve that glossy, clingy sauce texture.
Adding too much sugar: Balance sweetness carefully to avoid overpowering the dish.

Storing Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Freeze: Freeze portions for up to 2 months in freezer-safe bags or containers.

Conclusion

This Mongolian Ground Beef recipe offers a quick, easy, and flavorful way to enjoy a takeout favorite without the fuss. With bold, savory notes balanced by sweet undertones, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s sure to satisfy. Give it a try, leave your feedback below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more tasty recipes!