How to Make Better Than Takeout Mongolian Beef in 30 Minutes

Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s not only quick but also bursting with flavor? I’m talking about Better Than Takeout Mongolian Beef! This recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, and it comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, if you’re a fan of easy pasta recipes, you’ll love how simple this dish is to whip up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick family dinners that don’t skimp on flavor.
• Easy to make with minimal ingredients.
• Perfect for meal prep or a last-minute dinner idea.
• Can be customized with your favorite veggies.
• Pairs beautifully with rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering Mongolian Beef Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup water
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 4 green onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• Cooked white or brown rice, for serving

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious Mongolian Beef:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by slicing your flank steak into thin strips. The key to getting that tender bite is to cut against the grain, which helps break up the muscle fibers. Once sliced, toss the beef in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. This not only helps create a crispy texture when cooked but also thickens the sauce later on. Let the beef sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. This will be the base of your sauce. If you like a little heat, add in the red pepper flakes. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the beef in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until browned and crispy, then remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic and ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn them.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour in the sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. Add the cooked beef back to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Stir in the green onions and cook for another minute, allowing them to slightly soften while still maintaining a bit of crunch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and serve the Mongolian beef over a bed of white or brown rice. The rich, glossy sauce will seep into the rice, making every bite delicious. This dish is perfect for quick dinner solutions and will surely impress your family!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Mongolian Beef turns out perfectly:

• Make sure to slice the beef thinly for the best texture.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch coating; it’s key for that crispy finish!
• Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.
• If you love a bit of spice, increase the red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• This recipe is easily doubled if you’re feeding a crowd!

How to Serve

Serve your Mongolian Beef over a fluffy bed of rice, or for a twist, try it with noodles! It’s also fantastic with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. This dish is not only a great option for weeknight meals but also perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can marinate the beef in the sauce for a few hours before cooking. This will enhance the flavors even more! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, and enjoy your delicious meal again!

Now that you have this Mongolian Beef Recipe in your arsenal, you’ll never need to order takeout again! For more delicious ideas, check out my other recipes like Beef Stir Fry or Ground Beef Stroganoff. Happy cooking!