15 Minute Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ready in just 15 minutes, this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is the perfect choice for busy weeknights. Enjoy a savory, flavorful combination of ground beef, garlic, soy sauce, hoisin, and brown sugar, balanced with just a touch of heat. Inspired by classic Mongolian flavors, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. It’s the ultimate quick-fix dinner that pairs deliciously with any vegetable or noodle type you have on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe shines for its simplicity and bold flavor. Using pantry staples like soy sauce, hoisin, and garlic, combined with tender ground beef and linguine, you can enjoy an umami-packed dish in no time. Plus, it’s highly adaptable! From gluten-free noodles to leaner protein swaps like ground turkey, this dish easily adapts to dietary preferences, making it ideal for everyone.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: Adds a savory, hearty element. Swap with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives depth and aromatic flavor.
- Soy Sauce & Hoisin Sauce: The base for a rich, salty-sweet Mongolian-style sauce.
- Brown Sugar: Balances the saltiness for a caramelized sweetness.
- Ground Ginger & Red Pepper Flakes: Adds warmth and a touch of heat.
- Linguine: Perfect for soaking up the sauce; substitute with rice noodles or egg noodles for an authentic twist.
- Green Onions: Adds freshness and color for the perfect finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, cook linguine per package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat.
- Make the Sauce: Add garlic, cook for a minute until fragrant, then stir in brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, and hoisin. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Thicken with Cornstarch: Dissolve cornstarch in cold water and slowly stir into the sauce, cooking until it thickens.
- Combine and Serve: Add linguine to the skillet, toss to coat, then sprinkle green onions for garnish. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Mongolian Noodles
- Noodle Options: Substitute linguine with spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles for different textures.
- Adjust the Spice: Increase red pepper flakes or add Sriracha for more heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari and rice noodles for a gluten-free meal.
- Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for tofu or plant-based crumbles.
- Add Veggies: Broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots add crunch and nutrition.
- Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles for a low-carb version.
Nutrition Information
Each serving has about 450-500 calories, with a balanced macronutrient profile for protein, fat, and carbohydrates.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Make It Ahead? Yes, store in an airtight container and reheat when needed.
- Substitute for Hoisin? Try a mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, and a dash of peanut butter.
- Best Noodles for Gluten-Free? Rice noodles or gluten-free pasta work well.
15 Minute Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Medium pot for noodles
- Mixing spoon
- Small bowl (for sauce)
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or rice noodles or any preferred noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger minced (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water for thickening
- 3 green onions chopped, for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- In a medium pot, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until fully browned and no longer pink (about 4-5 minutes). Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the ground beef and stir to combine.
- Step 4: Thicken the Sauce and Add Noodles
- Add the cornstarch-water mixture to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens slightly (about 1-2 minutes).
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together until the noodles are coated in sauce.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy
Video
Notes
- For Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the skillet with the ground beef for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add sriracha to the sauce for a spicier version.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.