Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Name: Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds flank steak, sliced thinly; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon minced ginger; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 3 green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Taste the Globe

This Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a flavorful and tender dish that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-02T19:26:02.553Z

This dish brings together tender beef and a sweet-savory sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory sauce that enhances the beef's flavor
Minimal prep time and hands-off cooking
Perfect for serving over rice or noodles

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity is key. This Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is designed for those busy evenings when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich flavors and tender beef, this dish delivers satisfaction in every bite. Simply prep the ingredients in the morning, set your slow cooker, and return home to a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. Whether you're serving it over fluffy rice or tender noodles, the Mongolian beef pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. You can even customize your meal with your favorite vegetables or additional garnishes, making it a great option for families with diverse tastes.

Ingredients That Make a Difference

The base of this recipe is the flank steak, which is known for its rich flavor and tender texture when cooked properly. By slicing it thinly and slow-cooking it, you ensure that each piece absorbs the delicious sauce and becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. The combination of soy sauce and brown sugar creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet that enhances the natural flavors of the beef.

Don't overlook the importance of fresh garlic and ginger in this recipe. These ingredients not only provide a wonderful aroma but also add depth to the sauce, elevating the dish to a new level. The optional red pepper flakes give a slight kick, allowing you to adjust the heat according to your preference.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, make sure to slice the flank steak against the grain. This technique helps to break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite. If you're short on time, you can even ask your butcher to slice the meat for you, ensuring consistent thickness.

For those who enjoy meal prepping, this Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is an excellent option. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, and the flavors only improve as they meld together. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, and you'll have a delicious meal ready to go.

Ingredients

For the Beef

2 pounds flank steak, sliced thinly
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
3 green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish

Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker for a delicious meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Place the sliced beef in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it, ensuring all pieces are well coated.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the beef is tender. Stir in chopped green onions during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serve

Serve over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and additional green onions if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef!

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. While it pairs perfectly with steamed rice or egg noodles, you can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider adding a side of crispy spring rolls for an authentic touch.

For a complete dining experience, elevate your meal with a selection of sauces and garnishes. Additional soy sauce, chili paste, or even a drizzle of sesame oil can enhance the dish further. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also add a vibrant touch.

Storage and Reheating

To store your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it in portions. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.

When it comes time to reheat, do so gently to maintain the beef's tenderness. You can microwave individual servings or warm it on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of water or broth can help rejuvenate the sauce and keep the beef moist.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding vegetables to your slow cooker for a one-pot meal. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can complement the beef beautifully while adding nutritional value. Just toss them in during the last hour of cooking for perfect results.

For a different flavor profile, experiment with the sauce by incorporating other ingredients like hoisin sauce or oyster sauce. These additions can provide a unique twist, making your Mongolian beef even more memorable. Don't hesitate to explore and find what suits your palate best!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another cut of beef?

Yes, you can use sirloin or chuck roast, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

→ Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas would be great additions.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.