Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

If you’re craving a dinner that practically cooks itself while delivering melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and a deep, savory-sweet flavor, look no further than Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef. This easy slow cooker Mongolian beef recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy bold Asian-inspired flavors without standing over the stove for hours. Whether you’re a busy weeknight warrior or someone who loves meal prep simplicity, this dish combines simple ingredients into an unforgettable feast that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Toss all ingredients in the slow cooker and let it work its magic without constant supervision.
• Rich Flavors: The perfect balance of sweet soy sauce and garlic creates a savory sauce that coats every tender bite.
• Great for Meal Prep: Makes excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day.
• Family Friendly: Mildly sweet and savory, this recipe pleases both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Easy to adjust spice levels or add your favorite vegetables for variety.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef are straightforward but essential to building that authentic flavor profile. Each component pulls its own weight to contribute to the overall taste, texture, and beautiful appearance of the dish.

• Beef: Thinly sliced flank steak works best for tenderness and quick cooking in the slow cooker.
• Soy Sauce: The base of the sauce, providing the salty umami kick.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness that perfectly balances soy sauce’s saltiness.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with a bright, aromatic flavor.
• Ginger: Adds warmth and subtle spice for that classic Mongolian taste.
• Green Onions: Used both in the cooking process and as a fresh garnish for color and crunch.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce into a luscious glaze.
• Vegetable Oil: Used for searing the beef before slow cooking to lock in juices.
• Water or Beef Broth: Dilutes the sauce slightly and ensures the beef stays moist.

Variations for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

One of the best things about Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is how easily you can tailor it to fit dietary needs or personal preferences. Experimenting with these variations can keep the dish exciting and fresh every time you make it.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of Sriracha for a fiery twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap beef with mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
• Extra Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added texture and nutrients.
• Sweetener Swap: Replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a nuanced sweetness.

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How to Make Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness, then toss it in cornstarch to give the beef a light, crispy coating once seared.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and quickly sear the beef strips just until browned on the outside, sealing in juices and enhancing flavor before slow cooking.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves, creating a rich, aromatic sauce that will slowly infuse into the beef.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Place the seared beef in the slow cooker, pour the sauce evenly over the beef, add water or beef broth to keep it juicy, and sprinkle chopped green onions on top for freshness.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the beef to become tender and the sauce to thicken and caramelize beautifully.

Step 6: Finish and Thicken

If needed, stir in a little more cornstarch mixed with water and cook on high an additional 15 minutes to achieve a glossy, thick sauce that clings to the meat.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

• Thin Slicing: Freeze the beef for 15 minutes before slicing to achieve razor-thin pieces with ease.
• Don’t Overcook: Cooking too long can toughen the meat, so aim for 3 to 4 hours on low.
• Sear First: Searing beef beforehand locks in flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Fresh Aromatics: Use fresh garlic and ginger for a bright, lively sauce instead of powder.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before cooking and tweak the brown sugar depending on your preference.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Garnishes

Freshly chopped green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor, while a sprinkle of sesame seeds adds subtle nuttiness and crunch perfectly complementing the tender beef.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice, which soaks up the luscious sauce, or for a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice works wonderfully. Steamed vegetables or a simple Asian-style slaw bring brightness and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef over a bed of noodles or even stuffed inside lettuce wraps for a fun handheld meal. For dinner parties, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced red chili for punch and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making the next meal even tastier.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Flank steak is preferred for its tenderness and quick cooking, but sirloin or skirt steak can also work if sliced thinly against the grain.

How long should I cook Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?

Cooking on low for 3 to 4 hours is ideal to get tender meat without drying it out or overcooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

The classic recipe is mildly sweet and savory, but you can easily add chili flakes or hot sauce to increase the heat level.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to keep it gluten-free.

What are good sides for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?

Steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles are all excellent, along with stir-fried or steamed vegetables that complement the rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is one of those recipes that feels like a special treat but comes together with such ease, it quickly becomes a weekly favorite. With its rich, savory sauce and tender beef, it’s perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or impressive dinners with minimal fuss. Give it a try and watch how quickly it wins over your taste buds and your kitchen!

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