As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of garlic and ginger wafted through the air, creating an irresistible invitation to gather around the dinner table. This Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is my secret weapon for those busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet exciting. With tender flank steak slowly simmered in a sweet-savory sauce, this dish promises not only ease of preparation but also a delightful taste of Asian cuisine right at home. It’s the perfect solution for meal prepping or impressing guests, as the rich flavors develop beautifully with minimal effort. Curious how this dish can transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Ease of Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you!
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of garlic, ginger, and soy creates a mouthwatering sauce that will impress family and friends.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy hearty meals throughout the week — it freezes beautifully!
Versatile Dish: Pair it with rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a fun twist. If you’re looking to try similar flavors, check out Mongolian Ground Beef for a quick meal idea.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to be a hit at dinner parties, causing everyone to ask for seconds!
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition and color, making it your own unique creation.

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Ingredients

• Get ready for flavor-packed goodness!

For the Beef

Flank Steak – This is your main protein, becoming beautifully tender after slow cooking; sirloin or chuck roast are great substitutes.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce – Infuses umami flavor and saltiness; gluten-free soy sauce is a perfect option for a gluten-free dish.
Brown Sugar – Adds the right amount of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
Garlic – Brings depth of flavor; fresh garlic is best, but powdered garlic works in a pinch.
Ginger – Offers a zesty kick to the dish; use fresh ginger for the best results, or ground ginger if you’re in a hurry.
Cornstarch – This thickens the sauce; it’s optional, depending on your preferred sauce consistency.
Sesame Oil – Infuses a nutty essence into the dish; if you don’t have it, vegetable oil is a worthy substitute.

Get ready to create an irresistible Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prep the Meat
Begin by slicing your flank steak thinly against the grain, which is essential for achieving the desired tenderness. Aim for strips about 1/4 inch thick, as this will help the meat cook evenly. Once sliced, ensure the pieces are laid out on a cutting board so they are ready to be combined with the sauce shortly.

Step 2: Mix Sauce Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create a rich sauce. If you want to thicken the sauce, whisk in cornstarch until fully dissolved. This mixture will infuse your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef with a delightful sweet-savory flavor. Set the bowl aside and prepare to add everything to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker
Place the sliced steak into the slow cooker, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Pour the prepared sauce over the meat, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Using a large wooden spoon, gently stir the mixture to combine, making sure the flank steak is submerged in the sauce for maximum flavor while cooking.

Step 4: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat. Allow the beef to cook for about 3 hours, which is the perfect time for the meat to become tender and soak up the sauce’s rich flavors. Occasionally check to ensure everything is cooking harmoniously, but avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain the cooking temperature.

Step 5: Final Step
Once the cooking time is up, if you desire a thicker sauce for your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, remove the lid and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on low. This will enable the sauce to reduce and become glossy. As you approach the end of cooking, prepare your rice or noodles so that everything can be served hot and ready to enjoy.

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Slice Thinly: Ensure the flank steak is sliced against the grain to maximize tenderness. Thick slices can result in a chewy texture.
Avoid Overcooking: Stick to the recommended cooking time of 3 hours on low to prevent the meat from becoming tough.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger truly elevate the flavor of the sauce. Dried substitutes can lack intensity.
Thickening Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, don’t skip the cornstarch! Adding it enhances the texture and clings to the beef beautifully.
Add Veggies: Consider adding bell peppers or snap peas in the last hour of cooking for bursts of color and added nutrition to your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef.

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make this recipe your own!

Veggie-Packed: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for a nutritious splash of color. These vibrant veggies will absorb the flavors of the sauce, creating a comforting meal bursting with freshness.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free soy sauce to suit dietary needs. This allows everyone to enjoy your delicious creation without missing out on taste!
Sweet Heat: For an extra kick, stir in red pepper flakes or chili paste to the sauce. This delightful spicy twist enhances the depth of flavor and leaves your taste buds tingling.
Savory Switch: Use sirloin or chuck roast as an alternative to flank steak for a different texture. Each cut brings its unique flavor profile, allowing for customization based on your preference.
Citrusy Zing: Consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest for a bright, zesty twist to the sauce. This will bring a refreshing layer of flavor that beautifully balances the traditional sweet-savory profile.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions just before serving to brighten up the dish. Their freshness elevates the overall taste, offering a delightful contrast to the rich sauce.
Beef Noodle Bowl: Transform this dish into a noodle bowl by adding cooked noodles just before serving. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a nice crunch and a delightful finish.

For more quick meal ideas, don’t forget to explore my Black Pepper Beef or Healthier Garlic Beef for exciting alternatives!

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Refrigerator Storage: Keep your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, maintaining its delicious flavors and tenderness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Ensure the dish is cooled completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

Serving Leftovers: Pair reheated beef over fresh rice or noodles for a quick, delightful meal that still feels special!

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

The irresistible flavors of this comforting dish deserve delightful companions to create a full and satisfying meal experience.

Steamed Rice: Soft and fluffy rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite delicious.
Egg Noodles: Their chewy texture pairs perfectly with the tender beef, creating a delightful contrast that brings an extra layer of satisfaction.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of vibrant bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds color and crunch, balancing the dish’s richness while enhancing nutrition.
Garlic Green Beans: The fresh and garlicky flavors of sautéed green beans offer a bright contrast that elevates the meal’s overall taste.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side featuring crunchy cucumbers and a light soy dressing cleanses the palate, complementing the bold flavors of the beef.
Toasted Sesame Bread: A warm, crusty bread with a hint of sesame brings a unique texture to your meal and is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce.
Chilled Sake or Green Tea: The subtle flavors of chilled sake or a warm cup of green tea can elevate your dining experience, enhancing the dish’s Asian roots.
Chocolate Mousse: Conclude your meal with a rich and creamy chocolate mousse—its sweetness provides a delightful contrast to the savory main course.

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can slice the flank steak and mix the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply refrigerate the steak and sauce separately in airtight containers. For even more convenience, you can assemble the entire mixture in the slow cooker pan and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook; just remember to cover it tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, cook it on low for about 3 hours or until tender. This way, you’ll have a comforting and flavorful meal with minimal fuss, ready for your family to savor!

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs

What type of flank steak should I choose?
Absolutely! When selecting flank steak, look for pieces that are bright red, with minimal visible fat. Visual cues like a uniform thickness and no dark spots are ideal. If flank steak isn’t available, sirloin or chuck roast can also work well, but be aware they may alter the tenderness slightly.

How should I store leftovers from the Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Very easy! Store your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This will help keep the flavors intact and the beef tender. Remember to allow it to cool before refrigerating; this prevents condensation from causing deterioration.

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dish in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. It’s important to let the beef cool completely before sealing them in the containers to prevent ice crystals. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat.

What can I do if my sauce is too thin?
No worries! If you find your sauce is thinner than you’d like, you can easily thicken it. After cooking, remove the lid and let the sauce simmer on low for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For an even quicker fix, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes until thickened.

Is Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef safe for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, indeed! To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap regular soy sauce for a gluten-free version. Many brands offer delicious alternatives. Just be sure to check labels for any hidden gluten in additional ingredients.

How can I add more vegetables to the dish?
The more the merrier! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking. Simply chop your chosen veggies into bite-sized pieces and stir them in when there’s about 1 hour left on the timer. This adds nutrition and vibrant color to your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef!