If you’re craving a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, you’re going to love this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe. This dish is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and umami-rich flavors, all wrapped around tender linguine and juicy ground beef. It’s an easy, family-friendly dinner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and walk through the first steps of making it.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- Quick and Easy – Ready in about 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples you probably already have.
- Big on Flavor – A perfect balance of sweet, salty, and slightly spicy.
- Family-Friendly – A hit with both kids and adults.
- Customizable – You can tweak the spice level or add veggies for extra nutrition.
GETTING STARTED: INGREDIENTS YOU NEED
Before we start cooking, let’s take a look at what you’ll need. This recipe is divided into three components: the beef and sauce, the noodles, and the garnishes.
For the Beef & Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
For the Noodles:
- 10 oz linguine
- Water for boiling
- Salt for pasta water
To Thicken the Sauce:
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
For Garnish:
- 4 green onions, sliced
STEP 1: COOKING THE PASTA
The key to any good noodle dish is making sure your pasta is cooked just right. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm but tender).
- Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Pro Tip:
Don’t overcook your pasta! You want it to hold up when mixed with the sauce. If you’re worried about sticking, toss it with a tiny bit of sesame oil or butter after draining.
STEP 2: BROWNING THE GROUND BEEF
While your pasta is cooking, it’s time to work on the heart of the dish—the flavorful Mongolian-style beef.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and no longer pink.
- If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
Why Brown the Beef Well?
Browning the meat properly is crucial for depth of flavor. Let it cook undisturbed for a minute or two before stirring—it helps develop a delicious crust!
STEP 3: ADDING THE AROMATICS & SAUCE
Now, it’s time to infuse the beef with bold, umami-packed flavors.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.
- Pour in the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
What Makes This Sauce So Good?
- Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami.
- Brown sugar gives a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- Hoisin sauce brings richness and depth.
- Beef broth enhances the meaty flavor.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) add a bit of heat for those who like a kick.
MONGOLIAN GROUND BEEF NOODLES
Now that we’ve browned our beef and infused it with bold, Mongolian-style flavors, it’s time to thicken the sauce, bring in the noodles, and finish the dish with a delicious garnish.
This is the step where everything comes together, ensuring that every strand of linguine is coated in the rich, savory sauce. Let’s continue!
STEP 4: THICKENING THE SAUCE
A silky, well-balanced sauce is key to making this dish irresistibly good. To achieve the right consistency, we’re using a simple cornstarch slurry.
How to Make a Cornstarch Slurry:
- In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water until completely smooth.
- Slowly pour the slurry into the skillet with the beef and sauce, stirring continuously.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
The cornstarch helps the sauce cling to the noodles, ensuring each bite is coated with that rich, flavorful glaze.
STEP 5: COMBINING THE NOODLES AND SAUCE
Once your sauce is thickened, it’s time to bring in the cooked linguine and let everything blend together.
- Add the drained linguine directly into the skillet with the beef and sauce.
- Using tongs or a spatula, toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Let the mixture cook on low heat for another 2-3 minutes, giving the noodles time to absorb all the flavors.
Pro Tip:
If your sauce thickens too much after adding the noodles, you can loosen it up by adding a splash of beef broth or water until it reaches the perfect consistency.
STEP 6: GARNISH AND SERVE
Now for the finishing touch—fresh green onions! This final step adds a pop of color and a mild oniony bite that balances out the richness of the sauce.
- Slice 4 green onions into thin rounds.
- Sprinkle them generously over the noodles before serving.
For an extra boost of flavor, you can also try adding:
- Toasted sesame seeds – Adds a slight nuttiness and crunch.
- A drizzle of sesame oil – Enhances the aroma and deepens the umami.
- Sriracha or chili flakes – If you love spice, a little extra heat goes a long way.
CUSTOMIZATION IDEAS: MAKE IT YOUR OWN
One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is! Whether you want to add more protein, sneak in some veggies, or make it gluten-free, here are a few ideas:
1. ADD VEGGIES FOR EXTRA COLOR & TEXTURE
- Bell Peppers – Thinly sliced red or green bell peppers add a fresh crunch.
- Carrots – Shredded or julienned carrots give a slight sweetness that pairs well with the sauce.
- Broccoli – Steamed or sautéed broccoli adds bulk and nutrients to the dish.
- Snap Peas – These bring a slight crunch and freshness to balance the rich sauce.
2. SWITCH UP THE PROTEIN
While ground beef is the star of this dish, you can easily swap it out for other proteins:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken – A leaner option that still absorbs the flavors well.
- Shrimp – For a seafood twist, use shrimp instead of beef.
- Tofu – If you want a vegetarian version, pan-fried tofu works beautifully.
3. MAKE IT GLUTEN-FREE
- Swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.
- Use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta instead of linguine.
MONGOLIAN GROUND BEEF NOODLES
Now that you’ve mastered this flavorful and satisfying dish, let’s go over some common questions, storage tips, and serving ideas to make sure your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles turn out perfect every time.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. CAN I MAKE THIS DISH AHEAD OF TIME?
Yes! This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great meal prep option. If making ahead, store the noodles and sauce separately to prevent them from absorbing too much liquid and becoming soggy.
2. WHAT TYPE OF NOODLES WORK BEST FOR THIS RECIPE?
Linguine is a great choice because it holds the sauce well, but you can also use:
- Spaghetti or fettuccine for a similar texture.
- Lo mein noodles for a more authentic feel.
- Rice noodles for a gluten-free alternative.
3. HOW DO I STORE LEFTOVERS?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If possible, store the noodles and sauce separately to maintain the best texture.
4. WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO REHEAT THIS DISH?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
5. CAN I MAKE THIS DISH SPICIER?
Absolutely! Here are some ways to add more heat:
- Increase the red pepper flakes in the sauce.
- Stir in Sriracha or chili garlic sauce before serving.
- Add thinly sliced fresh chilies for an extra kick.
6. CAN I FREEZE THIS DISH?
While the sauce freezes well, the noodles may become mushy after thawing. If you plan to freeze it, store only the sauce and beef mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Cook fresh noodles when ready to serve.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with simple sides. Here are some ideas:
1. VEGGIE SIDES
- Steamed or Roasted Broccoli – A fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
- Garlic Green Beans – Crisp and flavorful with a hint of garlic.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy – Light and slightly crunchy, a great complement.
2. PROTEIN ADDITIONS
If you want to boost the protein, try adding:
- A fried or soft-boiled egg on top for a creamy, indulgent touch.
- Grilled chicken or shrimp if you prefer something other than beef.
3. GARNISHES TO ENHANCE FLAVOR
- Toasted sesame seeds – Adds a nutty crunch.
- Fresh cilantro – Brightens the dish.
- Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime balances the sweetness of the sauce.
FINAL THOUGHTS
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is a true weeknight hero—quick, easy, and loaded with bold flavors. Whether you keep it classic or customize it with your favorite ingredients, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite.
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Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
A quick and flavorful noodle dish featuring savory ground beef, a sweet and tangy Mongolian-style sauce, and tender linguine. Perfect for a comforting and easy dinner.
Ingredients
For the Beef & Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
For the Noodles:
- 10 oz linguine
- Water for boiling
- Salt for pasta water
To Thicken the Sauce:
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
For Garnish:
- 4 green onions, sliced
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3️⃣ Add Aromatics and Sauce: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
4️⃣ Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Pour into the skillet and bring the sauce to a gentle boil, stirring until it thickens.
5️⃣ Combine with Noodles: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes so the noodles absorb the flavors.
6️⃣ Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve hot. Enjoy!
Notes
- Want more heat? Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
- For a richer flavor, substitute beef broth with low-sodium soy sauce.
- Vegetable boost: Toss in some bell peppers, shredded carrots, or broccoli for added texture.
- Gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce and swap linguine for rice noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
