Easy Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mongolian Beef is a fantastic choice for busy individuals or families who crave a delicious homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The rich, savory sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, and Sriracha is perfectly balanced with the tenderness of the beef and the crunch of the shredded carrots. You can even customize the heat level to your preference, ensuring that everyone enjoys it. The use of a slow cooker means it’s effortless—just prep your ingredients and let the cooker do the rest!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs thinly sliced flank steak (1/4 inch thick)
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp fresh ginger, minced
• 3/4 cup water
• 3/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 – 2 tsp Sriracha sauce (can substitute with red pepper flakes or cayenne instead – in whatever amount you prefer)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 4-6 green onions, thinly sliced
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by coating the flank steak slices in cornstarch. Toss the beef until it’s evenly coated.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the beef to the pan and sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned. This step helps lock in the flavor but can be skipped if you’re in a hurry.
3. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
4. In the same skillet, add the garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the water, soy sauce, and brown sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. If you prefer a spicy kick, add the Sriracha sauce (or red pepper flakes/cayenne to taste). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then pour it over the beef in the slow cooker.
6. Stir to combine, cover the slow cooker, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
7. Once the beef is tender, stir in the shredded carrots and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the carrots are softened.
8. Serve the Mongolian beef over rice or noodles, topped with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the slow cooker

Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap the flank steak for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
• Spicy: Adjust the amount of Sriracha or red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
• Additional Veggies: Add more veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to enhance the dish.
• Sweetness: For a sweeter dish, increase the amount of brown sugar slightly, or add a bit of honey.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can substitute flank steak with other cuts like sirloin, skirt steak, or even chuck roast. Just ensure the beef is thinly sliced for best results.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! You can cook this dish in a large skillet. After browning the beef and making the sauce, let it simmer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until the beef is tender.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Mongolian Beef up to a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it when ready to serve.

What should I serve with Mongolian Beef?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice, noodles, or even a side of vegetables like sautéed bok choy.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the Mongolian beef for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.

Can I adjust the heat level?

Absolutely! You can add more or less Sriracha, or use red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

Can I use regular soy sauce instead of reduced sodium soy sauce?

Yes, but using regular soy sauce will result in a saltier dish. You may want to reduce the amount of soy sauce used.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) instead of regular soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or onions to the slow cooker for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I make the beef extra tender?

Thinly slice the beef against the grain, and be sure to cook it low and slow in the slow cooker. This will help make the beef extra tender.

Conclusion

This Easy Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a delicious, hands-off way to enjoy a flavorful and comforting meal. With minimal prep and a rich sauce that blends sweet, savory, and spicy notes, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Perfect for busy days, this recipe ensures you can enjoy a takeout-style dish at home with ease!

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