The rich aroma of garlic and ginger swirling around the kitchen always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter mingles with the scent of something delicious simmering away. Today, we’re diving into an irresistible recipe for Easy Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, perfect for cozy weeknights or whenever you’re craving comfort food without the fuss. Imagine tender beef strips nestled in a luscious sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, and a hint of sesame oil. The best part? This dish offers a satisfying solution for busy days, as it requires minimal prep and lets your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting. Plus, it’s family-friendly, appealing to even the pickiest of eaters. Curious about how to whip up this mouthwatering meal with ease? Let’s explore the simple steps together!

Why Will You Love This Mongolian Beef?

Effortless Cooking: With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a gourmet dish without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weekdays when time is tight!

Rich, Savory Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic results in a truly delicious sauce that clings to the beef, offering a taste that will have your family asking for seconds.

Family Favorite: Both kids and adults will delight in the tender beef and the sweet-salty flavors, making it a hit at dinner time. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Make Ahead Magic: You can prepare this dish in advance and store leftovers, making weeknight meals a breeze and reducing stress during your busy schedule. If you’re looking for more quick dinner ideas, check out my Slow Cooker BBQ Beef for another delicious option!

Customizable Comfort: Feel free to adjust the spice levels or add veggies to suit your taste, making this recipe versatile for everyone at the table!

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Ingredients

For the Beef
• Flank Steak – Provides tenderness and rich flavor; can be substituted with sirloin or chicken for a different texture.

For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – Adds umami and saltiness; using low-sodium soy sauce can make this Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef cater to dietary needs.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the soy sauce with sweetness; honey or coconut sugar can offer an alternative flavor profile.
• Grated Ginger – Infuses the dish with a fresh, spicy aroma; fresh is preferred for the best flavor.
• Minced Garlic – Delivers aromatic depth; fresh garlic always elevates the dish.

For the Cooking
• Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty flavor that enhances the sauce; olive oil can be a lighter substitute.
• Cornstarch – Used for thickening the sauce; consider arrowroot powder or flour as alternatives, while adjusting mixing methods accordingly.

For Serving
• Green Onions – Provides a fresh, crunchy garnish; don’t skip this for extra flavor and color!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Begin by slicing the flank steak against the grain into thin strips, about ¼ inch thick. This technique ensures that the meat remains tender after slow cooking. Place the sliced steak in a large bowl, making sure you have enough room to mix in the other ingredients.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add grated ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil to the bowl with the flank steak. Gently toss all ingredients until the beef is well coated. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef taste divine once cooked.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Carefully pour the steak mixture into your slow cooker, ensuring it’s spread evenly. This allows the beef to cook uniformly, absorbing all the delicious flavors. Set your slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.

Step 4: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and let the beef slow cook without opening the lid. During this time, the beef will become fork-tender, and the sauce will thicken slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat is deep brown and enticing aromas waft through the kitchen.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water in a bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce, and continue cooking with the lid on. This technique will give your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef a luscious glossy finish.

Step 6: Serve
Once thickened, carefully spoon the tender beef onto plates, drizzling it with the remaining rich sauce from the slow cooker. For a delightful presentation, garnish with sliced green onions. Your easy Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is ready to be enjoyed alongside rice or noodles for a comforting meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the flank steak and combine it with the sauce ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, storing everything in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, simply pour the mixture into the slow cooker and follow the usual cooking instructions. To maintain quality, ensure the mixture is kept airtight to prevent browning and maintain freshness. Additionally, this dish can be refrigerated as leftovers for up to 3 days, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying meal on hand. Enjoy the ease and joy of delightful home-cooked meals with minimal effort!

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!

Different Cuts: Swap flank steak for sirloin or chicken for varied textures and flavors, perfect for any meat lover.
Add Veggies: Toss in fresh bell peppers or snap peas for a burst of color and added nutrition, creating a visually appealing plate.
Spicy Kick: Introduce some heat by mixing in crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers, catering to those craving a spicy twist.
Sweet Swap: Use honey or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a distinct flavor that adds depth and richness to the sauce.
Gluten-Free: Opt for tamari instead of soy sauce; a perfect substitution to maintain the dish’s umami flavor while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Veggie Delight: Incorporate mushrooms or broccoli for an earthy richness that complements the sweetness, offering a well-rounded dinner experience.
Sautéed Aromatics: Begin by sautéing minced garlic and ginger in the slow cooker before adding the beef for an extra layer of flavor that elevates the dish.
zesty Twist: A splash of rice vinegar right before serving can brighten the dish with acidity and balance the sweetness, exploring new flavor dimensions.

If you’re in the mood for more hearty options, why not also try my Savory Ground Beef Stir-Fry or these Savory Roast Beef Sliders that are sure to please your family? Happy cooking!

What to Serve with Easy Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

The perfect side dishes will elevate your dinner experience, bringing balance to the tender beef and rich sauce while enticing your taste buds even more.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice absorbs the sauce beautifully and adds a delicate touch to each bite.
Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic provide a fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich beef.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds color and nutrients, creating a wholesome, vibrant plate.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These delightful appetizers bring a fun, crunchy element that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the Mongolian beef.
Lo Mein Noodles: Soft noodles provide a delightful chewiness, which complements the tender morsels of beef while soaking up the savory sauce.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad offers a cool, crisp bite, balancing the warm, hearty beef.
Sweet and Sour Carrots: Glazed carrots with a hint of sweetness make for a delightful contrast that dances well with the beef’s deeper flavors.
Iced Green Tea: A refreshing drink, its subtle bitterness cleanses the palate, enhancing each delicious bite of this comforting meal.

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the flank steak against the grain is crucial for tenderness. This small step makes a big difference in texture!
Marinate for Flavor: Letting the beef sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes will deepen the flavors, ensuring your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is rich and delicious.
Quality Soy Sauce Matters: Opt for a good quality soy sauce; it significantly enhances the overall flavor. Cheap versions can leave your dish tasting bland.
Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on the timer. For best results, stick to the recommended cooking times—4-6 hours on low works wonders!
Thickening Technique: Remember to add the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This timing ensures a perfect, glossy sauce that clings to the beef.

Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Fridge: Store leftover Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beef in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Label with the date, so you can enjoy it later!

Reheating: To reheat, allow the beef to thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Gently rewarm in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Easy Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Flank steak is ideal for this dish as it offers excellent tenderness and rich flavor when cooked slowly. However, if you prefer a different cut, sirloin works well too, providing a slightly different texture. For a lighter option, chicken can be substituted, but be sure to adjust the cooking time.

How should I store leftover Mongolian Beef?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, ensure the beef is cooled completely before sealing. For long-term storage, freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label your container with the date you froze it!

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Absolutely! To freeze, cool the Mongolian Beef thoroughly and then transfer it into an airtight container or a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if my sauce isn’t thickening?
If your sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving and continue to cook. The sauce should thicken beautifully and cling to the beef, enhancing every bite!

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, you can easily adapt it! For those managing gluten sensitivities, swap regular soy sauce for tamari. If sugar is a concern, consider using coconut sugar or honey as a sweetener. Always be sure to double-check ingredient labels to accommodate specific allergies and dietary needs!