Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe

If you are craving a dish that bursts with sweet, savory, and tender flavors, the Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe is a game changer. This recipe transforms simple ingredients like flank steak, soy sauce, and brown sugar into a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. The slow cooker does all the work, turning thinly sliced beef into tender perfection, while the rich sauce coats every bite beautifully. It’s comfort food made effortless, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want to impress without stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that come together to create a perfectly balanced dish. Each item plays a key role: from the tenderizing cornstarch coating to the bold flavors of garlic and ginger, every element contributes to the overall harmony of taste and texture.

• Flank steak (1 1/2 pounds, thinly sliced against the grain): The star protein that becomes irresistibly tender after slow cooking.
• Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Coats the beef for that slightly thickened, glossy sauce texture.
• Toasted sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle nutty aroma that deepens the flavor profile.
• Minced garlic (1 teaspoon): Brings a fragrant bite that awakens the senses.
• Minced ginger (1 teaspoon): Offers a warm, slightly spicy undertone to balance the sweetness.
• Low sodium soy sauce (1/2 cup): Provides rich umami and saltiness without overwhelming.
• Brown sugar (1/3 cup): Injects the perfect amount of caramelized sweetness to contrast the savory notes.
• Water (1/2 cup): Helps create the luscious sauce while keeping the beef moist.
• Green onions (1/2 cup, chopped for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant crunch and color when sprinkled on top.

How to Make Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Begin by thinly slicing your flank steak against the grain. This technique ensures tenderness once cooked. Toss the slices in cornstarch thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated. This simple step is crucial because it not only tenderizes the beef but also helps thicken the sauce during cooking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the cornstarch-coated beef into your slow cooker. Add toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Gently stir everything together, making sure the steak is well immersed in the flavorful liquid. This combination promises a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and aromatic flavors.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and set it to HIGH, allowing the beef to cook for about 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can cook it on LOW for 4 to 5 hours if you prefer a slower, more gradual flavor development. The low and slow heat will melt the beef into tender, succulent morsels infused with that signature Mongolian sauce.

Step 4: Final Touches

Just before serving, stir in the chopped green onions. They bring a fresh, mildly pungent crunch that elevates the dish’s overall taste and adds a pop of beautiful green color. Now your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe is ready to delight!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe

Garnishes

Green onions are the classic garnish, but feel free to sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds for extra texture and flair. A light drizzle of additional toasted sesame oil right before plating can also enhance the aroma and flavor, giving your dish that restaurant-quality finish.

Side Dishes

Serve this rich Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe alongside steamed jasmine rice or fragrant brown rice to soak up all the delicious sauce. For a balanced meal, add stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers – their crispness pairs beautifully with the tender beef.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Mongolian beef over crispy wonton chips or in lettuce wraps for a hand-held treat. Another delicious idea is to spoon it over steamed cauliflower rice for a lighter option without missing out on any flavor. Layer it over a bed of noodles tossed with a touch of sesame oil and scallions to turn it into a noodle bowl experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe has cooled, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the beef with its sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Stored properly, it can last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the beef gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it covered on medium power until heated through. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce from separating. If the sauce is too thick after reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Flank steak is ideal for this recipe because it becomes tender when slow cooked, but you can substitute with skirt steak or sirloin tips. Avoid very tough or fatty cuts as they may not cook evenly or result in the same texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes! You can cook it on the stovetop in a covered skillet over low heat, simmering gently until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Just keep an eye on it and stir often to prevent sticking.

How sweet is the Mongolian sauce in this recipe?

The brown sugar adds a rich, balanced sweetness that complements the salty soy sauce perfectly. It’s not overly sweet but offers that signature caramelized flavor Mongolian beef is known for. You can adjust sugar amounts slightly to your taste.

Can I add vegetables directly to the slow cooker?

While you can add hearty vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the slow cooker in the last hour of cooking, delicate veggies are best sprinkled on top or served alongside to keep their texture and freshness.

What’s the best way to slice the beef?

Slicing the beef thinly and against the grain is key. It shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite tender rather than chewy and helps the flavors penetrate better throughout the meat while cooking.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe that effortlessly combines bold flavors with the ease of slow cooking. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become one of your go-to meals for busy nights or casual get-togethers. It’s comforting, impressive, and downright delicious—go ahead and give it a try, your taste buds will thank you!

Print