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Mongolian ground beef served over steamed white rice, topped with green onions and sesame seeds, on a wooden table.

Irresistible Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe to Try

Laura
Quick, flavorful, and easy to make, this Mongolian Ground Beef Recipe is a savory-sweet dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Modern, Fusion, Asian, Thai-inspired
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef lean preferred
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce low-sodium recommended
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar packed
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce optional, for richer flavor
  • 1 tsp sesame oil toasted if available
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp ginger freshly grated
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • cooked rice/noodles for serving

Instructions
 

  • Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
  • Add aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
  • Combine and simmer: Pour sauce into the skillet. Stir to coat beef evenly. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Add green onions: Stir in chopped green onions and cook for 1 more minute.
  • Serve: Spoon over rice or noodles and enjoy hot!

Notes

Make it gluten-free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for extra heat.
Add veggies: Stir in bell peppers, shredded carrots, or snap peas for color and nutrition.
Double the sauce: Like it saucier? Double the sauce ingredients for a more indulgent dish.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water if it’s too thick.