Savory Mongolian Beef Noodle Stir-Fry Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, flavor-packed dinner that checks every box—savory, slightly sweet, tender, and crazy satisfying—you’re going to fall in love with this Savory Mongolian Beef Stir-Fry. Tender strips of beef, silky noodles, and a bold, garlicky sauce come together in about half an hour for a dish that tastes like it came from your favorite takeout spot (but better and so much fresher!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Savory Mongolian Beef Stir-Fry is built on simple, everyday ingredients that each play a big part in creating the glossy sauce, melt-in-your-mouth beef, and those irresistibly slurp-worthy noodles. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters—grab your grocery list!

• Flank steak: The classic choice for Mongolian beef; slice it thin against the grain for maximum tenderness and speedy cooking.
• Cornstarch: Gives the beef a crispy exterior and helps thicken the sauce for that signature glossy finish.
• Vegetable oil: Perfect for stir-frying at high heat with a neutral flavor that lets the sauce shine.
• Green bell pepper: Adds color, crunch, and a little sweetness to balance the savory sauce.
• Ramen noodles: They soak up every drop of sauce and provide chewiness (swap for udon or soba if you like!).
• Green onions: For a pop of freshness and mild, oniony bite right before serving.
• Sesame oil: Brings a toasty, nutty aroma to the sauce that makes it truly addictive.
• Soy sauce (low sodium): The backbone of the salty-sweet depth—using low sodium keeps the dish from being overpowering.
• Brown sugar: That signature hint of sweetness you expect from Mongolian beef comes from this pantry staple.
• Chicken broth: Loosens the sauce and adds savory complexity; opt for low or no-sodium so you control the seasoning.
• Garlic: Four full cloves bring out the punch you’re craving in a real Savory Mongolian Beef Stir-Fry.
• Red pepper flakes: Customizable heat—add more or less depending on your spice preference.

Variations

The beauty of this Savory Mongolian Beef Stir-Fry is how easy it is to riff on—whether you’re catering to different diets, raiding the fridge, or just in the mood to mix things up. Here are some of my favorite ways to make it your own!

• Swap the Beef: Try using chicken, pork, or even tofu for a different take that’s just as saucy and satisfying.
• Level Up the Noodles: Experiment with udon, rice noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter twist.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in broccoli, snow peas, or carrots for extra color and crunch—this is a perfect fridge clean-out meal.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute tamari for soy sauce and use gluten-free noodles to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

How to Make Savory Mongolian Beef Stir-Fry

Step 1: Slice and Coat the Beef

Start by slicing your flank steak into thin pieces against the grain—this ensures every bite is tender. Tumble the beef into a large zip-top bag with the cornstarch and give it a vigorous shake, making sure each strip is evenly coated. This step creates that crave-worthy crispy coating once it hits the pan (plus helps the sauce cling).

Step 2: Sear the Beef in Batches

Heat your vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet until shimmering. Add the beef in small batches—don’t crowd the pan! Sear until deeply golden and crispy, then transfer to a plate. You may need to add a touch more oil as you go. This builds complex flavor and keeps the beef from steaming.

Step 3: Sauté the Bell Pepper

Once all your beef is golden, toss your sliced bell pepper into the same pan. Sauté for just a couple of minutes—enough to take the raw edge off while keeping its vibrant crunch. Remove the pepper and set it aside with the cooked beef.

Step 4: Make the Mongolian Sauce

Add sesame oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom, and let the mixture cook over medium heat. Simmer for about 10 minutes, just until the sauce thickens and reduces slightly but is still saucy enough for noodles.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

As the sauce simmers, cook your ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain well—these starchy noodles will soak up all the rich, savory flavor when they meet the sauce.

Step 6: Toss Everything Together

Return the cooked beef and bell pepper to the skillet with the thickened sauce. Add your drained noodles, then toss and turn everything until each strand and morsel is perfectly coated in sauce. Top immediately with generous handfuls of chopped green onions for that fresh, punchy finish.

How to Serve Savory Mongolian Beef Stir-Fry

Garnishes

A good handful of chopped green onions brings a fresh, peppery contrast to the rich flavor of the stir-fry. If you love a nutty crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top—or add a swirl of chili oil for extra heat and flair. A scattering of cilantro leaves is optional, but it can offer a burst of herbal brightness.

Side Dishes

This Savory Mongolian Beef Stir-Fry is a meal on its own, but if you’re putting together a spread, serve it with simple steamed bok choy, garlicky sautéed greens, or a refreshing cucumber salad. Even classic fried rice makes a fun, carby combo for those truly hearty appetites!

Creative Ways to Present

Ladle the stir-fry into colorful bowls for a vibrant, Instagram-worthy meal, or serve on a big platter “family style” in the middle of the table for everyone to help themselves. Turn leftovers into wraps with butter lettuce cups or stuff them in warm bao buns for a next-day lunch that always gets rave reviews.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Savory Mongolian Beef Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to three days—the flavors deepen, and the noodles get extra-soaked with that delicious sauce!

Freezing

While the noodles are best made fresh, you can freeze the beef and sauce mixture (minus the noodles) for up to two months. Simply let it cool, transfer to freezer bags, and thaw overnight before reheating and tossing with freshly cooked noodles.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of water or broth and warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring just until piping hot. You can also microwave individual servings, but stop and stir halfway through for even heating. Avoid overcooking so the beef stays tender and the noodles don’t get too soft.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you need a crowd-pleasing dinner or just a cozy bowl of pure comfort, this Savory Mongolian Beef Stir-Fry has you covered! Give it a try, play with the ingredients to make it your own, and get ready for big smiles around your table. Happy cooking—don’t forget to slurp up every last bit of that gorgeous, glossy sauce!

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