Name: Savory Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef for Effortless Comfort Meals
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 300 min
Total time: 320 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Flank Steak (Thinly sliced against the grain.); 1/2 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (Tamari can be substituted for gluten-free.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Honey is a good alternative.); 1/4 cup Hoisin Sauce (Mix soy sauce with brown sugar for a substitute.); 1/2 cup Water (Reduce for a thicker consistency.); 4 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced.); 1 tablespoon Ginger (Grated fresh; use ground ginger at half the amount if needed.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Arrowroot can be used as an alternative.); 2 stalks Green Onions (Sliced for garnish.); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Any neutral oil can be used.)

As the sun dips below the horizon, the cozy aroma of Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef fills the kitchen, wrapping around you like a warm hug. This mouthwatering dish features tender slices of flank steak simmered to perfection in a sticky garlic sauce that beautifully balances savory and sweet flavors. What’s more, this recipe is a true lifesaver for busy weeknights—it’s an effortless set-it-and-forget-it delight that guarantees both satisfaction and smiles at the dinner table. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or just need a comforting meal after a long day, this slow cooker recipe is your ticket to a hearty, soul-soothing dinner. Are you ready to fill your home with enticing scents and your stomach with deliciousness?

Why is Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef a Must-Try?

Simplicity: This dish requires minimal effort and a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.

Flavor Explosion: Every bite is a tantalizing mix of sweet and savory, thanks to the rich garlic and hoisin sauce combined with tender slices of beef.

Crowd-Pleaser: Planning a dinner party? This recipe is a guaranteed hit among family and friends, ensuring happy faces and empty plates.

Versatile Additions: Feel free to customize your dish by tossing in veggies like bell peppers or snap peas, or switch up the protein to chicken or tofu to suit your needs.

Time-Saving: Set it up early, and let your slow cooker do the work—perfect for busy evenings when you want a comforting meal without the fuss. Enjoy this alongside Sizzling Mongolian Stir for an authentic feast!

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Ingredients

For the Beef
• Flank Steak – Tender and flavorful, thinly slice against the grain for the best texture.

For the Sauce
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Enhances savory depth without excessive salt; tamari can be substituted for a gluten-free option.
• Brown Sugar – Adds a wonderful sweetness to balance flavors; honey works well as a tasty alternative.
• Hoisin Sauce – Infuses a delightful sweet and tangy component; mix soy sauce with brown sugar for a substitute in a pinch.
• Water – Thins the sauce; reduce for a thicker consistency if desired.
• Garlic – Freshly minced for aromatic richness; garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
• Ginger – Grated fresh for a warm kick; use ground ginger at half the amount if fresh isn’t available.

For Thickening
• Cornstarch – Essential for thickening the sauce toward the end; arrowroot can be a suitable alternative if needed.

For Garnish
• Green Onions – Sliced for a touch of color and mild onion flavor; chopped chives can be swapped if preferred.

For Cooking
• Vegetable Oil – Needed to sear the steak and enhance flavor; opt for any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil.

This Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef recipe ensures a satisfying meal that you’ll crave again and again!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prepare Steak
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the flank steak, then slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. For easier slicing, you can partially freeze the steak for about 20 minutes. This will firm it up, making it much easier to cut into those perfect, delectable strips you’ll need for the Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef.

Step 2: Coat and Brown Beef
In a large bowl, toss the sliced steak strips with cornstarch until they are evenly coated. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and pour in vegetable oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the beef, searing it for 1-2 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned. This step adds a delicious depth of flavor to your dish.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking. In a separate bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, water, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. Pour this savory sauce mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, gently stirring to coat all the meat and let those flavors mingle.

Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-2.5 hours. You’ll know the Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is done when the meat is fork-tender and infused with the rich sauce aroma. It’s perfect for busy weeknights as you let your slow cooker do all the work!

Step 5: Thicken Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, take some cold water and mix it with a bit of cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker and add your chopped green onions. Cover again and continue cooking, allowing the sauce to thicken and develop a glossy finish that clings beautifully to the tender beef.

Step 6: Serve
Once cooking is complete, give the Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef a good stir before serving. This dish is best enjoyed hot, either over a fluffy bed of steamed rice or alongside noodles. For a touch of flair, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and additional green onions to elevate the presentation and enhance the flavors.

Expert Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Cut with Care: Slice the flank steak against the grain to ensure each piece remains tender and easy to chew, enhancing the pleasure of this slow cooker Mongolian beef.
Watch the Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking by checking for doneness within the suggested cooking times. Tenderness is key; err on the side of caution for perfect results.
Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If you find the sauce too thick, simply stir in a little water until it reaches your desired consistency—your slow cooker Mongolian beef should be saucy yet not runny.
Flavor Enhancement: For an extra boost of flavor, consider marinating the beef in the sauce mixture for a couple of hours, letting those savory flavors penetrate deeply into the meat.
Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some bell peppers or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for a nutritious crunch and delicious flavor contrast to the tender beef.

Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring the beef remains moist and flavorful for those next-day cravings.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Mongolian beef in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to label it with the date, so you enjoy it at its best!

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Portioning: Consider dividing into individual servings before freezing to make meal prep a breeze. Each portion retains the deliciousness of slow cooker Mongolian beef after thawing!

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

As you savor the rich flavors of your Mongolian beef, don’t miss the chance to build a delightful meal around it that’s sure to impress your loved ones.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice absorbs the savory sauce perfectly, providing a comforting base that complements the dish.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: A crisp and refreshing side that adds a pop of color and crunch, cutting through the richness of the beef.
Garlic Green Beans: Stir-fried green beans tossed in garlic and sesame oil will add a lovely crunch and earthy flavor to your meal. The vibrant green color is a feast for the eyes!
Sesame Noodles: These noodles drizzled with soy sauce and sesame oil create a delightful, nutty side that echoes the flavors in the Mongolian beef.
Miso Soup: The warm, umami-rich broth serves as a comforting start to the meal, balancing the savory flavors of the beef beautifully.
Sweet and Sour Pineapple: This tropical addition brings a delightful contrast to the savory beef, enhancing your meal with a burst of sweetness and acidity.

For a satisfying finish, pair it with a Chilled Sweet Green Tea or Chocolate Mochi to round out your experience! Each pairing brings unique textures and flavors, making your dinner truly memorable.

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Variations

Feel free to put your own twist on this beloved dish—your culinary imagination is the only limit!

Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a nutritious crunch and delightful color.
Spicy Version: Spice it up by adding red pepper flakes or fresh slice of chili, creating a mouthwatering heat that balances the sweet sauce.
Alternative Protein: Substitute flank steak with chicken or cubed tofu for a different take that suits your dietary preferences.
Sweet Twist: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar for a unique sweetness that complements the savory sauce.
Asian Flavors: Enhance authenticity by including a splash of rice vinegar or sesame oil for a deeper flavor profile, taking it to the next level.
Noodle Delight: Serve over udon or soba noodles instead of rice for an exciting texture change that adds a fun twist to your meal.
Herb Garnish: Try garnishing with fresh cilantro or basil for a fragrant touch, offering an aromatic lift to every serving.

For more flavorful ideas, you might also enjoy this delicious Sizzling Mongolian Stir or a satisfying side of Chinese Ground Beef that perfectly complements your Mongolian Beef!

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef preparations are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can slice the flank steak and toss it in cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can prepare your sauce (soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin, garlic, and ginger mixture) up to 3 days ahead; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, combine the beef and sauce in the slow cooker and follow the remaining steps as usual. This way, you enjoy the same delicious flavors with minimal effort, making weeknight dinners a breeze! Just be sure to stir well before serving to ensure the sauce coats the beef evenly.

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs

What type of flank steak should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choose a high-quality flank steak that is well-marbled for added flavor and tenderness. Look for cuts with a deep red color and minimal dark spots. Thinly slicing the steak against the grain is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that slow cooker Mongolian beef is known for.

How should I store leftovers from Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the beef cool to room temperature before sealing it to maintain moisture. To enjoy it later, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to keep it juicy.

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Very! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. I often recommend portioning it into individual servings before freezing for convenient meal prep!

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry! Just whisk a bit of cold water into some cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth, then stir it into the sauce in the slow cooker. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes, and it should thicken to a wonderful consistency that clings to the beef perfectly.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! You can make this slow cooker Mongolian beef gluten-free by substituting low-sodium soy sauce with tamari, which is made without wheat. Additionally, be sure to check that other ingredients, such as hoisin sauce, are labeled gluten-free, as many common brands contain wheat. This way, everyone can enjoy the flavors without worry!