This Garlic Beef Noodles recipe is a savory, hearty dish packed with rich flavors. The ground beef is marinated with a mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger, and garlic, creating a delightful base for the noodles. Tossed together with sautéed garlic and green onions, this dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Garlic Beef Noodles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Beef Noodles is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the bold flavors of beef and aromatic seasonings. It’s an ideal meal for busy evenings, offering a balance of protein, carbs, and delicious umami flavors. The versatility of this recipe allows you to easily add your favorite vegetables or spice it up to your liking. The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and the rich beef flavor will make this dish a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

1 lb ground beef
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp Shaoxing rice wine (optional, can substitute with dry sherry)
1 tbsp brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Noodles:

1 lb wide egg noodles or your preferred noodles
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Optional Additions:

1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Sesame oil, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the beef: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine (if using), brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well and set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the noodles: Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
Combine noodles and beef: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the beef. Toss to combine.
Add garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately. You can drizzle with sesame oil for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes

Variations

For a richer flavor: Add a tablespoon of sesame oil to the beef marinade.
For a spicier dish: Increase the red pepper flakes or add chili powder to your taste.
Vegetable additions: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or bok choy to the skillet with the beef and cook until tender-crisp.
Noodle options: You can substitute the wide egg noodles with spaghetti, fettuccine, or rice noodles. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the noodles in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or pork for a different flavor.

2. Is the Shaoxing rice wine necessary?

No, the Shaoxing rice wine adds a depth of flavor, but you can substitute it with dry sherry or omit it entirely.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and marinate it up to 24 hours in advance. Cook the noodles and combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

4. What if I don’t have wide egg noodles?

You can use any type of noodles such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or rice noodles. Adjust the cooking time based on the noodles you choose.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be added to make the dish even more nutritious.

6. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, feel free to add more red pepper flakes, or even a dash of chili paste or hot sauce to increase the heat.

7. Can I freeze Garlic Beef Noodles?

You can freeze the beef and noodles mixture, but the texture of the noodles may change upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge.

8. Can I make this gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and ensure the noodles you use are gluten-free.

9. What can I serve with Garlic Beef Noodles?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables, steamed rice, or a simple salad.

10. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or tofu, and use a vegan-friendly soy sauce and oyster sauce alternative.

Conclusion

Garlic Beef Noodles is a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and customizable to suit your tastes. With its rich combination of savory beef, noodles, and aromatic garlic, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something that can be easily tailored to your preferences, this recipe is a great choice.