This incredibly easy Mongolian Ground Beef is a quick weeknight dinner that brings big flavor with minimal effort. All the sweet, savory, slightly spicy taste of the classic Mongolian beef—made faster with ground beef and ready in about 15 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy: 15-minute meal with pantry staples
- Budget-friendly: Uses ground beef instead of steak
- Versatile: Serve over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps
- Meal-prep approved: Stores and reheats beautifully
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness or spice to taste
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this savory skillet dinner:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (or honey/maple syrup as alternative)
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 green onions, chopped into 2-inch pieces
How to Make Mongolian Ground Beef
1. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with ginger and garlic until fully browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and hoisin sauce. Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.
3. Thicken It Up
In another small bowl, whisk cornstarch with water. Stir into the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Finish & Serve
Stir in red pepper flakes, black pepper, and green onions. Serve warm over rice, noodles, or in lettuce cups.
Tips for a Healthier Version
- Use lean beef: Opt for 90% lean or higher to cut saturated fat
- Lower the sodium: Choose low-sodium soy sauce and hoisin, or use coconut aminos
- Control sweetness: Swap brown sugar with a smaller amount of honey or a sugar-free option like monk fruit
- Add veggies: Stir in bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free tamari and hoisin sauce
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Over steamed white or jasmine rice
- Low-carb: Serve in lettuce wraps or with cauliflower rice
- Noodle bowl: Toss with rice noodles or soba
- Meal prep: Portion with rice and veggies into containers for grab-and-go lunches
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other meats?
Yes! Try ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Adjust cook time and seasoning to taste.
Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely. Add more red pepper flakes, sriracha, or fresh chopped chili peppers.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, with adjustments. Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients (like hoisin and cornstarch) are labeled gluten-free.
Can I make it ahead?
Definitely. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
If you’re looking for a fast, flavorful dinner that doesn’t cut corners on taste, Mongolian Ground Beef is your go-to. It’s a delicious take on a restaurant favorite with the simplicity of a one-pan, weeknight meal.
Try it tonight—no marinating, no stress, just bold flavor in minutes.