Asian Ground Beef Noodles

Asian Ground Beef Noodles is a quick and savory one-pot dish brimming with bold flavors, satisfying textures, and a perfect touch of heat. Featuring seasoned ground beef, tender vermicelli noodles, and a rich soy-based sauce, this recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a speedy weeknight meal. With optional vinegar and chili oil for added depth, this dish is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe checks all the boxes for a perfect go-to dinner: fast, flavorful, and filling. It uses basic pantry staples, requires just one pot, and delivers delicious Asian-inspired flavors in every bite. The tender vermicelli noodles absorb the savory beef sauce beautifully, while white pepper, soy sauce, and optional chili oil add complexity and spice. It’s also adaptable—swap the protein, use your favorite noodles, or adjust the heat to your liking.

ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons oil

250 g ground beef

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon grated ginger

2 teaspoons white pepper powder (adjust to taste)

2 tablespoons corn flour (cornstarch)

2 tablespoons chopped spring onion

120 g vermicelli (or noodles of choice)

2 tablespoons Chinese dark vinegar (optional)

2 tablespoons Chinese chili oil (optional)

directions
Cook the beef:
In a saucepan over medium heat, add oil and ground beef. Break apart the meat with a spatula and cook until lightly browned.

Add aromatics and simmer:
Stir in grated ginger and soy sauce. Sauté for 10–15 seconds to release flavor and slightly caramelize the soy.
Add 1 cup water and white pepper powder. Cover with a lid and simmer for 10 minutes. Add more water if needed.

Cook the noodles:
While the beef is simmering, cook the vermicelli in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Thicken the sauce:
Mix the corn flour with 1/2 cup of water to create a slurry. Pour into the simmering beef and stir until the sauce thickens evenly.

Combine and finish:
Add the cooked noodles to the beef sauce and toss to coat. Stir in chopped spring onions.
Add Chinese dark vinegar and chili oil, if desired, for extra richness and heat.

Servings and timing
Yield: 2 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations
Protein swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef.

Noodle alternatives: Substitute with ramen, rice noodles, udon, or spaghetti.

Add vegetables: Include shredded cabbage, bell peppers, bok choy, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Spicy version: Increase chili oil or add fresh chopped chilies.

Gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free noodles.

storage/reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave is also suitable.

FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Boil noodles fresh and combine before serving.

What does Chinese dark vinegar add?
It adds a deep, tangy umami flavor that balances the richness of the beef.

Is white pepper necessary?
White pepper adds a subtle, sharp heat typical in many Asian dishes, but you can substitute black pepper if needed.

Can I use fresh noodles instead of dried?
Yes, fresh noodles work well. Adjust cooking time as they cook faster than dried noodles.

Is this dish spicy?
Not inherently, but it can be spicy if you include chili oil or fresh chilies.

What kind of oil is best to use?
Use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil for cooking.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Double all ingredients, and use a larger pan or wok to accommodate the volume.

How do I keep noodles from sticking?
Toss them in a little oil after draining if you’re not adding them to the sauce immediately.

Can I omit the corn flour?
The cornstarch thickens the sauce and helps it coat the noodles. If omitted, the sauce will be thinner.

What pairs well with this dish?
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, dumplings, or a light cucumber salad.

Conclusion
Asian Ground Beef Noodles is a fast, flavorful meal that delivers satisfying texture and bold taste with minimal effort. With a savory soy base, warming white pepper, and the option to turn up the heat, this flexible recipe is sure to become a repeat favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a simple lunch idea, this one-pot noodle dish is always a winner.