Easy Mongolian Beef Recipe (Ready in 25 Minutes!)
- 12 hours ago
- 4 min read
A quick, flavorful and healthy dinner the whole family will love!
If you love the bold, savory-sweet flavors of takeout but want a lighter, healthier option, this Mongolian beef recipe is about to become a new favorite. Made with lean ground beef, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, this dish delivers everything you love about classic Mongolian Beef — without the excess sugar or heaviness.
Best of all, this easy Mongolian beef recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you’re craving comfort food that still supports your goals.
There’s no need to compromise on taste to eat well. This dish is high in protein, simple to prepare, and fits perfectly as a Lean & Green™ meal for those following our 5 &1 weight loss plan.
What Is Mongolian Beef?
Despite its name, Mongolian Beef isn’t actually from Mongolia. It’s a popular Chinese-American dish typically made with sliced beef, soy-based sauce, garlic, ginger and a touch of sweetness. Traditional versions are often breaded and fried, then served with a sugary sauce.
This healthier version keeps the signature flavor profile while skipping the frying and excess sugar — making it a smart, satisfying alternative.
Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Beef
Big flavors, no fuss: This recipe delivers the classic savory, sweet and umami-rich taste of restaurant Mongolian beef. The sauce is perfectly balanced, making every bite satisfying.
Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it's the perfect meal for hectic evenings when you need to get a nutritious dinner on the table fast.
High in protein: Each serving packs an impressive 41g of protein, which helps keep you feeling full and fueled for longer.
Health-conscious: Made with 93% lean ground beef and loaded with vegetables, this is a lighter take on a takeout favorite that doesn't skimp on flavor.
Great for meal prep: This recipe reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for preparing lunches or dinners in advance.
Is This an Authentic Mongolian Beef Recipe?
While this is not a traditional or authentic Mongolian beef recipe, it honors the delicious flavors that people love. We've captured the essence of the dish — the savory garlic, the warm ginger, and the rich soy sauce — but adapted it for a healthier lifestyle. This Mongolian ground beef recipe uses modern ingredients and a faster cooking method to give you a similar experience in less time.
Ingredients You'll Need
6 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
6 tbsp beef broth
3 packets calorie-free sweetener
1 clove garlic, finely minced
½ tsp minced fresh ginger
1½ lbs. 93% lean ground beef
1½ cups broccoli florets
1 cup red bell pepper, cut into strips
½ cup scallions, sliced, divided
3 cups cooked cauliflower rice
How to Make Mongolian Beef
This Mongolian ground beef recipe puts a lighter, faster spin on the takeout classic—using lean ground beef, simple ingredients, and one skillet for easy cleanup. By swapping sliced beef for ground beef, you get the same bold, savory-sweet flavors in a dish that cooks quickly and fits seamlessly into a healthy, high-protein meal plan.
Follow the steps below to see just how easy it is to make Mongolian Beef at home.
Servings: 4
Per Serving: 1 Lean, 3 Green, 2 Condiments
Total Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl or a glass measuring cup, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, beef broth, calorie-free sweetener, minced garlic and fresh ginger. Set the sauce aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is crumbly and no longer pink.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet. Add the broccoli florets and red bell pepper strips to the empty side. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the sliced scallions and the prepared sauce to the skillet. Toss everything together until the beef and vegetables are well coated in the sauce. Let it simmer for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Place ¾ cup of cooked cauliflower rice into a shallow bowl. Top with 1½ cups of the Mongolian Beef mixture.
Tips for the Best Mongolian Beef Recipe
Use Fresh Ingredients: For the most vibrant and authentic flavor, use fresh ginger and garlic instead of powdered versions.
Don’t Overcook the Veggies: The broccoli and bell peppers should remain slightly crisp to provide a nice textural contrast to the ground beef.
Want More Heat? If you enjoy a spicy kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of chili paste to the sauce.
Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Final Thoughts
This easy Mongolian beef recipe proves you don’t need takeout — or hours in the kitchen — to enjoy bold, satisfying flavors. With lean protein, colorful vegetables and a simple sauce, this Mongolian ground beef is a delicious way to enjoy a classic while staying aligned with your health goals.
If you’re looking for a quick, high-protein dinner that feels indulgent but fits into a balanced lifestyle, this Mongolian Beef is a must-try.
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