20-Minute Honey Garlic Ground Beef Noodles

• •8 oz ramen noodles or instant wheat noodles (discard flavor packets)
• •1 lb lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
• •6 garlic cloves, finely minced
• •1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
• •4 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
• •0.3 cup honey
• •0.3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• •1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for rich color and depth)
• •1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• •1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic paste (optional for heat)
• •1 teaspoon cornstarch
• •0.3 cup water or low-sodium beef broth
• •1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• •1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Cook noodles according to package instructions until just al dente (usually 2 to 3 minutes). Drain, rinse briefly with cold water to stop cooking, and set aside.

2. 2

   In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, sriracha, cornstarch, and water until completely smooth.

3. 3

   Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and the sliced white parts of the green onions. Cook, breaking the meat into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain excess grease if desired.

4. 4

   Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring constantly, for 45 to 60 seconds until fragrant.

5. 5

   Pour the whisked honey garlic sauce over the beef. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce bubbles, thickens, and turns glossy.

6. 6

   Add the cooked noodles and toasted sesame oil to the skillet. Toss vigorously for 1 to 2 minutes using tongs until the noodles are thoroughly coated in the sticky sauce and heated through.

7. 7

   Remove from heat and garnish with the sliced green onion tops and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Chef's Tips

• 💡Prep the sauce and aromatics before turning on the stove; the stir-fry step moves very quickly once the beef is cooked.
• 💡Let the ground beef sear undisturbed for the first 2 minutes in the pan to develop savory caramelized bits that boost flavor.
• 💡You can substitute ramen noodles with fresh lo mein noodles, udon, or even linguine if needed.