The aroma of simmering spices wafted through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a bustling street market in Asia. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, a dish that perfectly balances the rich flavors of tender flank steak with the zesty brightness of garlic and ginger. This easy recipe is ideal for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet comforting, all without spending hours at the stove. Plus, it’s a meal prep champion—create a big batch for the week ahead or impress friends at your next gathering. Are you ready to dive into a savory experience that captures the essence of homemade goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why Choose Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?

Effortless cooking means you can set it and forget it! Simply toss in your ingredients and let the slow cooker do its magic.

Rich, Complex Flavors meld together as the beef simmers, offering a generous punch seasoned with ginger and garlic, perfect for any palate.

Versatile options allow you to customize your dish with extra veggies or spice it up with red pepper flakes.

Meal Prep friendly, this dish stores beautifully—save leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week, alongside options like Baked Beef Tacos.

Family Favorite, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings without the stress!

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for delicious Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef!

For the Beef

Flank Steak – The star of the show, providing tenderness and flavor; can substitute with sirloin or chuck roast for a different texture.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce – A savory base for your sauce; use gluten-free soy sauce to accommodate dietary needs.
Brown Sugar – Adds a necessary sweetness to balance the flavors; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
Garlic – Fresh garlic deepens the dish’s flavors; garlic powder works in a pinch but is best when fresh.
Ginger – Imparts a warm zestiness; go for fresh ginger if possible, with dried being a suitable alternative.
Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce for a great texture; skip it if you prefer a looser sauce.

Optional Add-ins

Bell Peppers – For added color and crunch; stir them in for some freshness!
Broccoli – A nutritious veggie option that complements the dish well.
Red Pepper Flakes – Spice things up by adding a pinch if you enjoy a little heat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prep Beef
Begin by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Aim for uniform pieces to promote even cooking. Lay the slices flat on a cutting board and use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Once sliced, set the beef aside while you prepare the sauce, creating a base for your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef.

Step 2: Mix Sauce
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch. Whisk the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. The sugar should be dissolved completely, and the cornstarch should no longer be clumpy. This savory-sweet sauce will be poured over the beef for rich flavor and a glossy finish.

Step 3: Cook
Place the sliced flank steak in the slow cooker and evenly pour the sauce mixture over the meat. Using tongs, gently stir to coat the beef thoroughly in the sauce, ensuring every piece is covered. This will help the meat absorb the flavorful components during cooking.

Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the beef to cook for about 3 hours, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is tender and easily pulls apart. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!

Step 5: Serve
Once cooking is complete, give the Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef a final stir and serve it over steamed rice or cooked noodles. Consider adding fresh veggies or serving it in lettuce wraps for a colorful presentation. Revel in the harmonious blend of flavors and textures prepared effortlessly for your family!

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Craving a delightful feast to elevate your meal? Let’s explore perfect accompaniments that balance flavors and textures!

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant, fluffy grains soak up the tangy sauce beautifully, creating a comforting bite.
Quick Pickled Cucumber Salad: Crisp and refreshing, this salad adds a crunchy contrast that brightens every mouthful.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful medley of bell peppers and broccoli not only adds nutrition but also complements the rich beef.
Sesame Noodles: These flavorful noodles can carry the savory essence of the beef while adding a comforting, silky texture.
Hoisin Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory with a touch of caramelization, these carrots balance the richness of the beef in each bite.
Bok Choy with Garlic: Quickly sautéed, this leafy green offers a peppery note to cut through the hearty flavor of the dish.
Crispy Egg Rolls: Perfectly crispy, filled with veggies and protein, they add a delightful crunch alongside your beef masterpiece.
Ginger-Infused Iced Tea: The refreshing, subtle flavors of ginger tea bring a soothing finish to the meal, cleansing the palate beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will deepen as it rests, making each bite even more delicious.

Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. For best quality, label each container with the date for reference.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until thoroughly heated, ensuring it remains saucy.

Meal Prep: This Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is perfect for meal prep; create a larger batch to enjoy quick lunches or dinners throughout the week!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes during your busy weeknights! You can slice the flank steak and mix the savory sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully in the fridge. Just place the sliced beef in an airtight container, pour the sauce over it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. On the day of serving, simply transfer the mixture into the slow cooker and set it to cook for about 3 hours. This make-ahead method not only makes for seamless meal prep but ensures your family enjoys the same delicious, tender results without any extra fuss!

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Slice Against the Grain: Ensuring the flank steak is sliced thinly against the grain enhances tenderness and allows the meat to absorb more sauce flavor.

Avoid Lid Lifting: Resist the urge to open the slow cooker during cooking. Lifting the lid releases steam and affects the cooking temperature, which can impact the final result.

Timing is Key: Stick closely to the recommended cooking time. Overcooking can lead to tougher beef, so set a timer to enjoy perfectly tender Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef.

Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers or broccoli for a boost of nutrients and color. Start with softer vegetables to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

Thick Sauce Tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will elevate the texture to your preference!

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Variations

Feel free to elevate your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef with these customizable options that tease the palate and inspire creativity.

Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers and broccoli for a vibrant, nutritious twist. Their crunch complements the tender beef beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili paste for a fiery flavor. The heat will awaken your taste buds, making every bite exciting!
Chicken Alternative: Substitute flank steak with chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter option. The savory sauce works just as wonderfully with poultry, retaining that beloved umami flavor.
Tofu Twist: Make it plant-based by using firm tofu instead of beef. Hydrate and marinate it to soak up those delicious flavors; a fantastic option for vegetarians!
Sweetness Variation: Experiment with coconut sugar or honey in place of brown sugar for an alternative sweetness. This not only alters the flavor but can offer a delightful twist on classic tastes.
Mushroom Delight: Incorporate sliced mushrooms for an earthy depth. They’re a great way to add texture and absorb the intoxicating sauce.
Citrus Splash: Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a bright note that cuts through the richness of the dish. This little change elevates the flavor profile to something truly special.
Noodle Upgrade: Swap out rice for noodles for a different texture. Serve it over soba or udon for a delightful Asian-inspired meal, reminiscent of your favorite noodle dishes like Korean Ground Beef.

Feel inspired to make this dish your own and delight your family with new flavor combinations!

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right flank steak?
Absolutely! Look for flank steak that is bright red with minimal dark spots or bruising. It should be firm to the touch with a smooth texture. For the best flavor and tenderness, select cuts with even marbling, as this fat will render during cooking and enhance the dish.

How should I store Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Storing is easy! Keep your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to savor those delicious flavors even longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to label it with the date for easy reference!

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ensuring no excess air is trapped inside. I recommend portioning it out into meal-sized servings, so you can easily grab what you need for quick future meals. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove until warmed through.

What can I do if my sauce isn’t thickening?
If you find that your sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, no worries! You can create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir until smooth, then add this mixture to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir it into the beef and sauce mixture, and you’ll have a beautifully thickened sauce in no time!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you have dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily accommodate them. To make it gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Additionally, for those with allergies, double-check the labels on your sauces and sugar to ensure no hidden ingredients. And if you’re cooking for a pet, remember that garlic and onion should be avoided, so consider separating a small portion of beef before adding those ingredients.