There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of noodles topped with savory beef, especially when that combination is enhanced with the sweet and umami flavors characteristic of Mongolian cuisine. This recipe for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles delivers just that and has quickly become a family favorite in many households. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that impresses on a weekend gathering, this meal checks all the boxes. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and can be customized to your taste.
Why make this recipe
What makes this dish special
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a delightfully simple recipe that brings a touch of exotic flair to your dinner table. One of the standout features of this dish is its versatility; it can be on your table in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
Don’t just take my word for it—here’s what one enthusiastic home cook had to say:
“I made this for my family last week, and they couldn’t stop raving about it! It was quick to make, and the flavors were incredible.”
The use of ground beef not only makes it budget-friendly but also speeds up the cooking time. Coupled with the tangy hoisin sauce and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar, this meal creates a well-rounded flavor profile that’s both satisfying and kid-approved. Plus, you can whip this meal together in no time, giving you extra minutes to relax or spend time with your loved ones.
How to make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Preparing Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Let’s break down the preparation process so you know exactly how to bring this delightful dish to life.
- Cook linguine according to the package instructions.
- Brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- Add minced garlic, then mix in flavorful sauces and spices.
- Thicken the sauce and combine it with the noodles.
- Garnish and serve hot!
Now that we have a quick overview let’s dive deeper into the ingredients and methods needed to create this scrumptious meal.
Ingredients
What you’ll need
Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- 10 oz linguine
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 4 green onions, sliced for garnish
Tip: For a healthier version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, and if you’re watching your sodium intake, a low-sodium soy sauce works perfectly without sacrificing flavor.

Directions
Cooking method
- Cook the linguine: Begin by boiling a pot of water. Follow the package instructions and cook the linguine until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat the pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep your dish from becoming greasy.
- Add garlic: Once the beef is cooked, toss in the minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute. This will infuse your beef with a delightful aroma.
- Combine the sauces: Stir in the brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients meld together.
- Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Pour it into the skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in the noodles: Toss the cooked linguine into the skillet, ensuring the sauce coats the noodles evenly.
- Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of freshness and a splash of color, then serve hot.
How to serve Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Best ways to enjoy it
There are so many ways to enjoy your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles! For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables, like broccoli or snap peas.
For an extra flavor punch, drizzle a bit of sesame oil on top right before serving. If you love heat, serve with chili oil or sliced chilies on the side. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the beef.
How to store
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you find yourself with any leftovers (which is rare, given how delicious it is!), storing them properly is key. Allow the noodles to cool down to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, they can last for up to three days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it should remain good for about three months. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to ensure the noodles don’t dry out. Heat in the microwave, or for best results, warm gently on the stovetop until heated through.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
- Choose high-quality beef: Since the beef plays a significant role in the flavor, opting for lean ground beef can improve the dish’s overall texture and healthiness.
- Don’t skip the garlic: The flavor it adds is key—make sure to sauté it briefly to avoid burning.
- Taste as you go: Everyone’s palette is different; adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, especially concerning the soy sauce and hoisin for a richer flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh green onions will not only enhance the flavor but also add a nice crunch.
Variations
Creative twists
Feel free to mix things up! Here are a few fun variations you might consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu or lentils for a plant-based alternative.
- Noodle Variants: Swap linguine for rice noodles or gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Veggie Additions: Toss in some bell peppers, sugar snap peas, or carrots for additional nutrition and texture.
- Spicy Version: Increase the pinch of red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha for those who crave heat.
FAQs
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
The preparation and cooking time for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is approximately 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick dinner.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, absolutely! Store them in an airtight container and they will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Just reheat carefully.
What can I substitute for the beef broth?
You can use chicken broth or even vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter option or are keeping it vegetarian.
With its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Print
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Beef
Description
A quick and flavorful recipe for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 10 oz linguine
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 4 green onions, sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the linguine according to the package instructions.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat and drain excess fat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
- Combine the brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Thicken the sauce with a slurry made from cornstarch and water.
- Mix in the cooked linguine, ensuring it is well coated with the sauce.
- Serve garnished with sliced green onions.
Notes
For a healthier version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef. Use low-sodium soy sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mongolian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Mongolian noodles, ground beef, easy dinner, quick meal, savory noodles