Spoon Simple
Mongolian Ground Beef
This flavorful and incredibly quick ground beef dish has become a popular online sensation, loved for its sticky, savory sauce and ease of preparation. It's a weeknight hero that's bursting with flavor.
Prep 10 min
Cook 15 min
Total 25 min
Serves 4
Ingredients
Step 1 — For the Beef
- 1 tbsp neutral oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
Step 2 — For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Step 3 — For Serving
- Cooked white rice
- Steamed broccoli or other vegetables
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- 1
Brown the Beef
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess fat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the beef and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 2
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, cornstarch, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth and no lumps of cornstarch remain.
- 3
Combine and Serve
Pour the sauce over the cooked beef in the skillet. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef. Remove from heat immediately. Serve hot over cooked white rice, alongside steamed vegetables. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Nutrition per serving: 480 cal · 30g protein · 45g carbs · 20g fat · 2g fiber
For informational purposes only. Not medical or dietary advice. Verify ingredients for allergens, cooking times, and safe internal temperatures before serving.
