Step 1: Cook the Linguine

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the linguine noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula.
3. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Step 3: Add Garlic to the Beef

1. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef.
2. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.

Step 4: Prepare the Mongolian Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, and black pepper.

Step 5: Add Sauce to the Skillet

1. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the ground beef.
2. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring to coat the beef evenly.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
2. Slowly stir the slurry into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 7: Toss in the Noodles

1. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the beef and sauce.
2. Toss until the noodles are evenly coated in the sauce.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

1. Serve the noodles hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
2. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or sriracha if desired for extra heat.