Ingredients
1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
1 tbsp ginger paste (or 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger)
5 tsp minced garlic (about 4–5 cloves)
½ cup beef broth
½ cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
¼ cup packed brown sugar
⅓ cup hoisin sauce
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes, to taste (start with ¼ tsp for mild heat)
1 box (16 oz) linguine noodles
For Serving (Optional)
Sliced green onions
Toasted sesame seeds
Lime wedges
Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Do not rinse—the starch helps the sauce cling.
2. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned and no pink remains (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Build the Flavor Base
Stir in the ginger paste and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant—don’t let the garlic burn!
4. Simmer the Sauce
Add the beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and deepens in color.
5. Combine & Coat
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet. Using tongs, toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated in the rich, glossy sauce.
6. Serve with Flair
Divide among bowls and top with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve immediately while hot and fragrant.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with steamed broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas for a veggie boost
Add a fried egg on top for extra richness
Serve with crispy wonton strips for crunch
Enjoy with iced jasmine tea or a cold lager
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different noodle?
Yes! Spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles work well. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce, GF hoisin, and gluten-free noodles.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Stir in sliced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms with the garlic.
How spicy is it?
Mild by default—red pepper flakes are optional. Add more for heat, or omit entirely.
Allergy Information
Contains: Soy, wheat (in soy sauce and noodles), gluten
Gluten-free option: Possible with substitutions
Dairy-free: Yes
Vegetarian? No (contains beef and broth)
Always check labels on hoisin and soy sauce for allergens.
Nutrition Facts
(Per serving, recipe serves 4)
Calories: 680
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g (Saturated: 8g)
Carbohydrates: 95g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 1,450mg
Values may vary based on ingredient brands and added toppings.
Final Conclusion
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe proves that bold flavor doesn’t require hours of prep—just a hot skillet, a few key sauces, and a willingness to embrace umami-rich simplicity. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with aroma, your belly with comfort, and your weeknight with joy. So grab your wok, boil that pasta, and get ready for a dish that’s equal parts cozy and craveable.
