“Imagine coming home after a long day, the intoxicating aroma of Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef wrapping around you like a warm blanket. This easy Asian comfort food is the perfect antidote to busy weeknights, bringing a taste of your favorite Chinese restaurant right to your kitchen. With tender flank steak slow-cooked in a rich, sweet-savory sauce, it’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a breeze to prepare, allowing you more time with loved ones. Plus, it’s wonderfully adaptable—gluten-free options are available, and you can even sneak in some extra veggies for added nutrition. Who wouldn’t want to indulge in a dish that’s both delicious and effortlessly made? Ready to dive in and savor every bite?”

Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Simplicity: The Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a no-fuss dish that requires minimal prep—just slice, mix, and let your slow cooker do the magic!

Rich Flavors: Infused with garlic, ginger, and a delightful sweetness, each bite packs a punch that satisfies your cravings for comfort food.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap flank steak for chicken or tofu for a different twist, or add veggies like bell peppers for a colorful boost.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s bound to impress your guests and have them asking for seconds!

Time-Saving: With a set-it-and-forget-it method, you can whip up this delicious meal while you focus on other tasks—like prepping side dishes or enjoying some downtime!

If you’re looking for more amazing beef recipes, don’t miss out on Garlic Butter Beef and Ground Beef Hot.

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Ingredients

Discover the secret to this delicious dish!

For the Beef

Flank Steak – This is the star of the show, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture; you can also use sirloin or chuck roast for a different flavor.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce – A must for umami and saltiness; opt for gluten-free soy sauce if you’re making a gluten-free version.
Brown Sugar – Adds a sweet balance to the savory sauce; feel free to swap it with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the dish’s depth; don’t skimp on this ingredient for maximum flavor.
Ginger – Provides warmth and a hint of spice; use fresh ginger for that authentic touch.
Cornstarch – This thickens your sauce to perfection; arrowroot powder is a great gluten-free alternative.

For Garnish

Green Onions – Adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor; slice them to sprinkle right before serving.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to create a wonderful homemade Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef that will bring everyone to the dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prepare Flank Steak
Begin by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain into bite-sized pieces. This method ensures maximum tenderness when cooked. Aim for uniform slices about 1/4 inch thick, which allows for even cooking in the slow cooker. As you slice, visualize the tender, melt-in-your-mouth pieces of beef that will soon be coated in a delectable sauce.

Step 2: Mix Sauce
In a medium-sized bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, fresh ginger, and cornstarch. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well-combined, ensuring no lumps remain. This sauce is the heart of your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, rich in flavor and silky in texture, perfect for enveloping the beef as it cooks.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the thinly sliced flank steak into the slow cooker, then pour the prepared sauce over the beef. Using a spatula or your hands, gently toss the beef to completely coat each piece with the sauce. Ensure that the beef is well saturated, as this will enhance the flavor during the long, slow cooking process.

Step 4: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the beef to cook for 3 hours, during which time it will become tender and absorb the rich flavors of the sauce. Keep the lid closed during cooking to maintain heat and ensure that the beef becomes beautifully tender and succulent, perfect for serving.

Step 5: Serve
After 3 hours, check the beef for tenderness. If needed, you can let it cook a little longer. For an extra thick sauce, take off the lid and cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. Serve your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef warm over fluffy rice, noodles, or in fresh lettuce wraps, garnished with sliced green onions for added color and flavor.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?

Imagine a cozy dinner where every bite unfolds delightful flavors alongside comforting sides that perfectly complement your mouthwatering creation.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy and fragrant grains soak up the savory sauce, delivering a satisfying balance to every forkful.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crisp-tender veggies like bell peppers and broccoli add crunch and color, elevating the meal’s nutritional profile.
Noodles with Sesame Oil: These silky noodles embrace the rich sauce beautifully, making each mouthful a cheerful dance of flavors.
Crispy Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb twist, serve it in fresh lettuce leaves, adding a refreshing crunch that contrasts with the tender beef.
Asian Cucumber Salad: Cool and zesty, this salad adds a burst of freshness with a tangy dressing that brightens the savory dish.
Egg Drop Soup: A warm, savory bowl of this comforting classic pairs wonderfully, creating a heartwarming Asian-inspired experience.
Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Enhance the dining experience with these soothing beverages that harmonize perfectly with the bold flavors of Mongolian Beef.

With these delightful pairings, your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is set to shine at the dinner table, creating a meal that’s not just satisfying, but memorable!

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Slice Against the Grain: Ensure that your flank steak is sliced against the grain to maximize tenderness; this small step makes a notable difference!
Avoid Frequent Peeking: Resist the temptation to lift the lid while cooking. Each time you do, you release heat and add extra time to the cooking process.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar to your taste. If you prefer a tangy note, a splash of rice vinegar can elevate the sauce beautifully.
Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding colorful vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for a wholesome twist.
Storage Savvy: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months—perfect for quick meals later!

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own magic on this dish, transforming it into a personal favorite with delightful twists!

Veggie Boost: Stir in bell peppers or broccoli in the last hour of cooking for a colorful, nutritious addition. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies without sacrificing flavor!
Protein Swap: Replace flank steak with chicken or firm tofu for a completely different protein experience. Both options soak up the sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
Sweetness Adjust: Balance the flavors to your liking by adjusting the brown sugar amount or adding a splash of rice vinegar for an intriguing tang. It can elevate the dish and cater to your taste buds.
Spicy Twist: For those who crave a bit of heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or chili paste into the sauce before cooking. This fiery addition makes it an exciting dish for chili lovers!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and arrowroot powder as a thickener to make this meal suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Enjoy all the flavors without a worry!
Citrus Zing: Experiment with adding a splash of orange juice or zest for a hint of freshness. The citrus notes lighten the dish and add a lovely complexity to the flavors.
Umami Kick: Enhance the savory depth by adding a tablespoon of hoisin sauce to the sauce mix. This fabulous addition deepens the flavor and makes each bite unforgettable.
Serve Creative: Consider serving it in lettuce wraps for a refreshing, low-carb option or over zoodles for a stunning presentation. There are limitless ways to enjoy this dish!

For more delicious beef options, don’t forget to explore Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole and Rotel Pasta with Ground Beef to add variety to your meals!

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef preparations are perfect for busy cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can slice the flank steak and mix the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. By doing so, you ensure that the beef stays fresh and the flavors in the sauce remain vibrant. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the flank steak and sauce in the slow cooker, then set it to cook for about 3 hours. This allows you to enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef with minimal effort, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Fridge: Store leftover Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef in an airtight container for optimal freshness. It will keep for up to 3-4 days, ensuring you can enjoy those delicious flavors again.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beef in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be kept for up to 2-3 months, perfect for meal prep and easy weeknight dinners.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen dish, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain sauce consistency.
Serving Tips: After reheating, serve it over rice or noodles, just as you did when it was freshly made, to bring back the delightful meal experience.

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best flank steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for flank steak that is bright red with little to no dark spots. The meat should be firm to the touch. If possible, buy from a reputable source where the meat is well-packaged and fresh. You can also ask your butcher for advice on which cut would work best if flank steak isn’t available.

What is the best way to store the leftovers?
Very! Store your leftover Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it has cooled down to room temperature before sealing to retain its texture. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Of course! To freeze, portion the beef into freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It’s best used within 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If you find that the sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, here’s a quick fix! Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Then, stir this mixture into the slow cooker and allow it to cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce beautifully!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! For those with gluten sensitivity, opt for gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch to adapt this recipe. If you’re cooking for pets, remember that the ingredients like onions and garlic can be harmful to dogs, so it’s best to keep this dish out of their reach. Always double-check labels, especially for pre-packaged sauces and condiments!

How can I enhance the flavors further?
To really take your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef to the next level, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a tablespoon of sesame oil to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or chili paste for a spicy kick! Enjoy experimenting with flavors that suit your taste buds!