Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about this Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe that makes it a quick go-to meal when you’re craving big flavors without a ton of fuss. The combination of tender ground beef with a gingery, garlicky sauce simmered right into those noodles hits all the right notes for comfort food with an Asian-inspired twist. I’ve found it perfect for busy weeknights, but honestly, itβs good enough for company too.
What makes this recipe special is how simple ingredients come together so effortlessly to create something that tastes thoughtfully crafted. Plus, itβs flexible and forgiving, so even if youβre new to cooking with ground beef or Asian sauces, youβll feel confident and end up with a winner on your plate. Trust me, once you try this Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe, itβll be on your rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients work beautifully together to deliver that classic Mongolian flavor with the convenience of ground beef and pantry staples. When shopping, keep an eye out for fresh garlic and quality soy sauce, as they really elevate the dish.
- Lean Ground Beef: I always use lean to keep the dish from being too greasy, but you can adjust the fat content to your liking.
- Minced Ginger: Fresh is best here for that bright, zesty punch.
- Garlic: Six cloves give this dish serious depth – donβt skimp!
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Keeps saltiness under control while adding umami.
- Beef Broth: Adds richness and helps create that luscious sauce.
- Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the savory and spicy flavors.
- Hoisin Sauce: This thick, sweet-savory sauce is a game changer in the flavor department.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Just enough heat to keep things interesting without overwhelming.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked for a sharper spice note.
- Linguine Noodles: They soak up the sauce well and provide a great texture contrast.
- Green Onions: Fresh diced green onions add a pop of color and mild onion flavor as garnish.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: My favorite finishing touch for some crunch and nuttiness.
Variations
I love how flexible this Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe is, so I often tweak it based on what I have or dietary needs. Donβt be afraid to make it your own!
- Spice it Up: I sometimes double the red pepper flakes or toss in some Sriracha for a fiery kick.
- Vegetable Boost: Adding shredded carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers gives it a fresh crunch and extra nutrients.
- Protein Swap: Tried it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option thatβs just as tasty.
- Gluten-Free: Use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta if you’re avoiding gluten.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Maple syrup or honey can replace brown sugar if that’s what you have on hand.
How to Make Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Linguine Noodles
Start by boiling your linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. I like to salt the water well β it flavors the noodles from the start, which makes a big difference. Once cooked, drain and set aside but donβt rinse; that starchy coating helps the sauce stick better later on.
Step 2: SautΓ© Aromatics and Brown Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until nicely browned but not dry, about 6-8 minutes. Then push the beef to the side and add minced garlic and ginger. Let those sizzle for about a minute until fragrantβbe careful not to burn them, or theyβll turn bitter.
Step 3: Add Sauces and Simmer
Pour in the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef beautifully. This part is key for that rich, sticky consistency that makes the dish so crave-worthy.
Step 4: Combine Noodles & Beef Mixture
Toss your cooked linguine into the skillet with the beef and sauce. Use tongs to gently mix everything together, making sure all the noodles are evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, splash in a bit more beef broth or water until you get the perfect consistency.
How to Serve Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe

Garnishes
I always finish mine with a generous sprinkle of diced green onions and toasted sesame seeds β they add freshness and a satisfying crunch. Sometimes, a drizzle of toasted sesame oil right before serving makes it even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
To keep it balanced, I pair these noodles with simple steamed broccoli or a crisp cucumber salad. Theyβre light and fresh, cutting through the richness of the beef and sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I sometimes serve the noodles in mini lettuce cups topped with chopped peanuts and extra green onions for a hand-held, crunch-meets-savory experience. Itβs a fun way to impress guests without extra work.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they last up to 3 days. When I reheat, I add a splash of water or broth to freshen up the sauce and toss gentlyβhelps avoid drying out the noodles.
Freezing
While I donβt usually freeze the noodles together with the sauce (it can get mushy), freezing just the beef mixture separately works well. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and combining with freshly cooked noodles for best results.
Reheating
I reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly and adding a bit of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too, but checking frequently prevents overcooking.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of noodle for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine works great because it holds the sauce well, you can switch to spaghetti, rice noodles, or even chow mein noodles depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
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Is there a vegetarian version of this Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with finely chopped mushrooms or plant-based ground meat for a delicious vegetarian alternative that keeps the flavors intact.
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How spicy is this Mongolian Ground Beef dish?
The recipe includes red pepper flakes for mild heat, but you can easily adjust the spice level by adding more flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want it spicier. Itβs very customizable.
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Can I prep parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can mince the garlic and ginger and even mix the sauce ingredients a day ahead. Brown the beef in advance and store it separately, then just combine and reheat when ready.
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Whatβs the best way to avoid soggy noodles in this recipe?
Donβt rinse the noodles after cooking and toss them immediately with the sauce while still warm β this helps the noodles absorb flavor without becoming mushy. Also, avoid overcooking the pasta in the first place.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe has become one of those dishes I fall back on whenever I want comfort, speed, and big flavor all at once. Itβs approachable, forgiving, and tastes way fancier than the effort it takes. I hope you have as much fun making it and sharing it as I do β itβs a real crowd-pleaser that I happily recommend to anyone looking to spice up their weeknight dinner routine.
PrintEasy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
This Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe offers a flavorful and quick-to-make meal combining tender ground beef with aromatic garlic and ginger, tossed in a savory hoisin and soy sauce blend. Served over linguine noodles and garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds, this dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb. lean ground beef
- 4 tsp minced ginger
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 6 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Pasta and Garnishes
- 1 12-ounce box of Linguine Noodles
- 4 green onions, diced for garnish
- Toasted Sesame Seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Linguine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- SautΓ© Aromatics and Brown Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the lean ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink. Add minced garlic and ginger and sautΓ© for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the low sodium soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Mix well to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer the Beef with Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and let the sauce cook with the beef for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Toss Noodles and Beef: Add the cooked linguine noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together until the noodles are thoroughly coated with the flavorful sauce and heated through.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the noodles and beef mixture, then garnish with diced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the dish.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes quantity to manage the spiciness to your preference.
- If linguine is not available, substitute with spaghetti or other long pasta.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Toasting sesame seeds beforehand enhances their nutty flavor.
