Name: Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 200 g (7 oz) beef (flank or sirloin), cut into strips; ¼ tsp salt; 1 tsp regular soy sauce; 2 tbsp cornstarch (cornflour); ¼ tsp baking soda; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; ½ tsp ginger, minced; 3-4 Thai red chilies, chopped; ½ (~90g) green bell pepper, sliced; 1 (~60g) small carrot, cut into matchsticks; 1 green onion, green and whites separated and diced; 200 g (7 oz) udon noodles; 2 tbsp regular soy sauce; 1 ½ tsp oyster sauce; 1 tsp dark soy sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; ½ tsp crushed red pepper; 1 tsp toasted sesame oil; ¼ cup chicken stock; 1 tsp cornstarch (cornflour); 2-3 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

Get ready to dive into a bowl of irresistible delight with this Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe, a perfect harmony of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors all wrapped up in tender beef strips and chewy udon noodles. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress with a restaurant-quality homemade dish, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create an unforgettable meal that feels like a warm, comforting hug. From the marinated beef to the vibrant stir-fried veggies and luscious sauce, each bite bursts with a dance of textures and rich flavors that will have you reaching for seconds in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with several ingredients neatly placed apart from each other. On the top left is a white bowl filled with thin strips of raw brown meat. Below this bowl, there are four long green spring onions with white ends. In the center of the image, there is a bright orange carrot, while near the bottom center is a shiny green bell pepper. On the top right, a small transparent bowl contains a light brown sauce with visible chili flakes. Below it, there is a sealed white and transparent package of udon noodles with black and red labeling. Near the bottom right corner, a piece of light brown ginger is placed next to two white garlic cloves. Three bright red chili peppers lie together near the center, above the carrot. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients sets the foundation for turning this Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe into a showstopper. Each ingredient plays an essential role, whether it’s adding a punch of flavor, creating the perfect texture, or bringing bright colors to your plate. Keeping it straightforward but flavorful is the secret here.

200 g (7 oz) beef (flank or sirloin): Thin strips provide tender, flavorful bites that absorb the sauce beautifully.
¼ tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the beef.
1 tsp regular soy sauce: Adds a subtle umami depth to the marinade.
2 tbsp cornstarch (cornflour): Gives the beef a lovely crispy texture when fried.
¼ tsp baking soda: Tenderizes the beef for melt-in-your-mouth results.
2-3 tbsp vegetable oil: Perfect for stir-frying and achieving that delicious caramelization.
2 garlic cloves (crushed): Injects fragrant aroma and a savory kick.
½ tsp ginger (minced): Adds a bright, zesty spice to the dish.
3-4 Thai red chilies (chopped): Brings a lively heat that wakes up the palate.
½ (~90g) green bell pepper (sliced): Adds vibrant color and a crisp bite.
1 (~60g) small carrot (cut into matchsticks): For sweetness and crunch.
200 g (7 oz) udon noodles: Thick, chewy noodles that soak up the savory sauce perfectly.
1 green onion (greens and whites separated and diced): Whites flavor the base; greens add fresh garnish.
2 tbsp regular soy sauce: Boosts the sauce’s savory profile.
1 ½ tsp oyster sauce: Supplies a rich, slightly sweet oceanic taste.
1 tsp dark soy sauce: Offers a deeper color and robust flavor.
2 tbsp brown sugar: Balances the savory and spicy with gentle sweetness.
½ tsp crushed red pepper: Adds an extra hint of heat.
1 tsp toasted sesame oil: Brings a nutty aroma and final shine.
¼ cup chicken stock: Keeps the sauce luscious and well-rounded.
1 tsp cornstarch (cornflour): Thickens the sauce for clinging perfection.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Sauce

Start by mixing together your soy sauces, oyster sauce, brown sugar, crushed red pepper, toasted sesame oil, chicken stock, and cornstarch in a small bowl. This mixture will become the luscious sauce that ties together every component, delivering the signature balance of sweet, salty, and spicy notes in this Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe.

Step 2: Marinating the Beef

Next, toss the beef strips with salt, cornstarch, and baking soda. This simple marinade tenderizes the meat and helps create that irresistibly crispy coating when frying. Set it aside for 20 to 30 minutes to let those flavors and textures develop.

Step 3: Cooking the Noodles

Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the udon noodles slightly less than the package instructions recommend to keep them chewy and firm. Drain them well and set aside, adding a touch of oil if needed to prevent sticking. Timing here is crucial so you can stir-fry the noodles immediately with the beef without any delay.

Step 4: Stir-Frying the Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. When hot, add the marinated beef strips and stir-fry until the edges turn a beautiful browned crisp. This step brings out that deep savory flavor and texture that makes this Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe so crave-worthy. Once cooked, remove the beef and set aside.

Step 5: Cooking the Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same wok with a little bit of the remaining oil, toss in the minced ginger, crushed garlic, white parts of the green onion, and chopped Thai red chilies. Stir-fry until fragrant—about 1 to 2 minutes. Then add the sliced green bell pepper and carrot matchsticks, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until they are just tender but still have a lovely crunch. This adds vibrant color and fresh texture contrast.

Step 6: Combining Everything

Pour the prepared sauce into the wok and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked udon noodles and the crispy beef back into the pan. Toss everything over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the noodles soak up the sauce and all ingredients are well combined and heated through. Stir in the green parts of the spring onion at the very end to inject freshness and visual appeal.

Step 7: Ready to Serve

Transfer your Mongolian Beef Noodles to a serving dish, optionally garnishing with extra green onion greens and a handful of toasted sesame seeds for that final nutty crunch. Now you’re all set to enjoy each mouthwatering forkful!

How to Serve Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like finely chopped green onion greens and toasted sesame seeds elevate this dish naturally without overpowering its rich flavors. Feel free to sprinkle a little extra crushed red pepper if you love a spicy kick, or add a squeeze of fresh lime for a zesty brightness that complements the deep sauce.

Side Dishes

This Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides such as steamed bok choy, sautéed snap peas, or a crisp cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar and sesame oil. These help balance the richness of the main dish while adding helpful crunch and coolness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, serve this recipe family-style straight from the wok to the table with chopsticks or forks handy. If you want to impress guests, arrange the noodles neatly on individual plates, topping with delicate garnishes and a drizzle of extra sesame oil for sheen. You might even serve it wrapped in crisp lettuce cups for a fun and hand-held twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Mongolian Beef Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The beef and noodles will continue to soak up the sauce, so the flavors become even more concentrated. Be sure to cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain texture.

Freezing

To freeze, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge to help retain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken stock if the noodles seem dry. This method refreshes the sauce and helps keep the beef tender. Avoid microwaving straight from frozen to prevent uneven heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Absolutely! While udon noodles are ideal for their chewy texture, feel free to use rice noodles, lo mein, or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to maintain that perfect bite.

Is this dish very spicy?

The heat level can be adjusted easily by adding or reducing Thai red chilies and crushed red pepper. The recipe offers a pleasant mild-to-medium kick, but you can dial it up or down depending on your preference.

Can I substitute the beef with another protein?

Yes, chicken, pork, or even tofu make great alternatives if you want to mix it up. Just be sure to adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking and to maintain the right texture.

How long does it take to make this recipe?

The entire Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe takes about 25 minutes, making it a quick yet satisfying meal perfect for busy nights or when you want something home-cooked fast.

Do I need to marinate the beef for a long time?

20 to 30 minutes is sufficient to tenderize and flavor the beef because of the cornstarch and baking soda in the marinade. If short on time, even 15 minutes will still give good results.

Final Thoughts

This Mongolian Beef Noodles Recipe is one of those dishes that effortlessly brings joy to your dinner table with its bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, the combination of tender beef, vibrant veggies, and the perfect sauce will surely become a beloved staple in your meal rotation. Give it a try and watch everyone’s faces light up after the first bite—you might just find a new favorite to return to again and again!