Name: Sticky Beef Noodles
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 250 g thin egg noodles (or ramen/soba); 2 tbsp olive or vegetable oil; 1 tsp minced garlic; 1 tsp minced ginger; 500 g ground beef or 400 g sirloin/flank steak, thinly sliced; ⅓ cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tsp brown sugar (optional); 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari); 1 tbsp dark soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, snap peas); ½ cup water + 1 tbsp cornstarch (slurry); 2 spring onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish); Optional garnish: chili oil

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Short description

I created this sticky beef noodles recipe as a quick, saucy stir-fry that’s irresistibly sweet, savory, and satisfying—all done in about 15 minutes using just one pan.

Sticky Beef Noodles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how fast this comes together—cooked in one pan in under 15 minutes, perfect for busy nights. The sauce caramelizes beautifully on ground beef or sliced steak, delivering a flavor bomb that beats takeout every time. Plus, it’s versatile: I add whatever veggies I have, which makes it a reliable go-to dinner when I’m low on time and ingredients.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

250 g thin egg noodles or your choice of ramen/soba
2 tbsp olive or vegetable oil
1 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp minced ginger
500 g ground beef or 400 g sirloin/flank steak, thinly sliced
⅓ cup sweet chili sauce
1 tsp brown sugar (optional)
3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
1 tbsp dark soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, snap peas)
½ cup water + 1 tbsp cornstarch (slurry)
2 spring onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish)
Optional garnish: chili oil

Directions

Cook noodles according to package instructions until just al dente, then rinse under cold water and set aside.
Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds.
Add beef or steak; cook until browned—about 2–3 minutes for ground beef, or 4–5 minutes for steak.
Stir in sweet chili sauce, brown sugar (if using), soy sauces, and rice vinegar. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens and caramelizes, about 2–3 minutes.
Add mixed vegetables, cover, and steam for 2–3 minutes until just tender.
Pour in the cornstarch slurry; stir until the sauce is glossy and thickened, about 1–2 minutes.
Add noodles and most of the spring onions; toss everything together and heat through for 1 more minute.
Serve hot, topped with the remaining spring onions and a drizzle of chili oil if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef with thinly sliced steak for a different texture.
Use any vegetables I have on hand—snap peas, green beans, or a frozen mix all work well.
Make it gluten-free by choosing tamari, gluten-free noodles, and gluten-free chili sauce.
Tone down the spice by reducing the chili sauce and adding a little honey for sweetness.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. I usually avoid freezing since noodles can lose their texture.

FAQs

What kind of noodles work best?

I usually go for thin egg noodles, but ramen, soba, or even angel hair pasta can work in a pinch.

Can I use steak instead of ground beef?

Yes, thinly sliced sirloin or flank steak works beautifully and gives the dish a takeout-style texture.

How do I make this gluten-free?

I use tamari instead of soy sauce, pick gluten-free noodles, and ensure the chili sauce I use is gluten-free.

What if the sauce is too salty?

I switch to low-sodium soy sauces and balance the flavors with more sweet chili sauce or a touch of vinegar.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, I chop the vegetables and mix the sauce ahead of time to make final cooking even faster.

Conclusion

This sticky beef noodles recipe is my go-to for nights when I want something flavorful and quick. It’s incredibly satisfying, customizable, and easy enough to make anytime. Whether I use ground beef or steak, it always turns out delicious—perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute meals.