As I stirred the simmering sauce in my slow cooker, the rich aroma of ginger and garlic wrapped around me like a warm embrace, instantly transporting me to my favorite Asian eatery. This Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef isn’t just a meal; it’s a simple way to bring bold flavors home, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a hearty family gathering. With its easy preparation and meal prep-friendly nature, you’ll find yourself enjoying less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it over fluffy rice or in crisp lettuce wraps to keep everyone smiling and satisfied. Are you ready to turn your dinner routine into a memorable experience?

Why is Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef a Must-Try?

Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a fantastic dinner without breaking a sweat.
Flavor Explosion: The bold combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates an unforgettable taste that rivals your favorite takeout.
Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for busy weekdays, make this dish ahead of time and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day!
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, noodles, or in refreshing lettuce wraps—it’s a meal everyone will love!
Plus, you can easily tweak the recipe to make it gluten-free by using the right soy sauce. You’ll find that this Ground Beef Enchiladas and Thai Basil Beef are equally delightful options for your meal rotation!

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Ingredients

For the Beef

Flank Steak – The main protein that shines with tenderness; substitute with sirloin or chuck roast if needed.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce – Adds umami richness; opt for gluten-free soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
Brown Sugar – Provides a sweetness that balances the savory; honey or maple syrup can be great alternatives.
Garlic – Enhances flavor with its aromatic profile; garlic powder can be used if you don’t have fresh on hand.
Ginger – Infuses a fresh, spicy note that’s essential for authenticity; ground ginger works in a pinch, but fresh is best.
Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce beautifully; for a gluten-free option, swap it with tapioca starch.
Water – Creates the perfect sauce consistency; consider using chicken or beef broth for added depth.

Optional Add-ins

Vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas) – Stir in during the last hour of cooking for a nutritious boost!

This easy Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef recipe comes together quickly and brings unforgettable flavors to your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prep Flank Steak
Begin by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain, which ensures each piece is tender. Aim for strips approximately 1/4-inch thick, as this helps the meat cook evenly in the slow cooker. Once sliced, set the steak aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Mix Sauce Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and water until well combined. This mixture is the heart of your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, so ensure the sugar is fully dissolved to create a smooth sauce.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker
Add the sliced flank steak to the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly to avoid overcrowding. Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the beef, then gently stir to coat all the pieces thoroughly. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully during cooking.

Step 4: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat, cooking the Mongolian beef for 3 hours. During this time, the beef will become tender and absorb the rich flavors of the sauce. You’ll know it’s ready when the steak is fork-tender and the sauce is aromatic.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce
To achieve a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. After the initial cooking time, stir this slurry into the slow cooker, then cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on low. This will help the sauce cling beautifully to the beef.

Step 6: Serve
Once cooked, carefully serve your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef hot, over fluffy rice, noodles, or in crisp lettuce wraps for a fresh twist. The glossy sauce and tender beef create a comforting dish that’s sure to delight the whole family!

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Elevate your dining experience with delicious sides that perfectly complement the bold flavors of tender beef simmered in a rich sauce.

Steamed Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the savory sauce, making every bite more satisfying. It’s the classic pairing that never disappoints.
Lo Mein Noodles: These tender, chewy noodles can act as a delightful base for the Mongolian beef, providing a comforting, hearty texture that balances the dish beautifully.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies like bell peppers and snap peas add a crisp contrast and festive color to your plate, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crisp on the outside and filled with fresh veggies, these rolls provide a refreshing crunch and delightful dip in soy sauce or sweet chili sauce.
Cucumber Salad: A light, tangy salad with cucumbers and sesame dressing adds a refreshing bite, perfect for balancing the meal’s richness. The flavor is uplifting and vibrant.
Sweet and Sticky Dumplings: These little bites bring a delightful sweetness that pairs deliciously with the savory tones of the beef while offering a fun, hands-on element to the meal.
Chardonnay or Riesling: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a sweet Riesling can beautifully complement the flavors, making your dining experience even more enjoyable as the wine enhances the dish’s savory essence.

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is perfect for those busy home cooks looking to save time! You can slice the flank steak and prepare the sauce (soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and water) up to 24 hours in advance, storing both components separately in the refrigerator. This not only saves you prep time on the day of cooking but also allows the sauce to deepen in flavor overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine the sliced beef with the sauce in the slow cooker, set it on low, and let it do the magic. Your dish will be just as delicious, giving you the comforting meal you crave with minimal effort!

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Variations

Customize your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef with these delightful twists and swaps to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce for a deliciously safe version without compromising on flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Swap out the beef for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based delight that still captures the essence of Mongolian cuisine.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for a fiery twist that enhances the overall depth.
Sweetness Adjustments: Play with the sweetness by substituting brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for distinct flavor undertones.
Extra Veggies: Stir in vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for a hearty nutritional boost.
Coconut Flavor: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a unique savory-sweet taste that pairs beautifully with the beef.
Quick Cook: If you’re short on time, opt for high heat for 1.5 to 2 hours for a fast yet tender result—just keep an eye on that beef!
Broth Boost: Replace water with beef broth for added umami richness that’ll elevate your dish to new heights.

These variations ensure your Ground Beef Enchiladas won’t be the only family favorite, and if you’re craving something fresh, try my Thai Basil Beef too!

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Slice Against the Grain: Always slice flank steak against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness and a pleasant texture in your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef.
Marinate for Flavor: Let the steak marinate in the sauce for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor. This step really enhances the dish.
Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure to not overcrowd the slow cooker. This allows even cooking and prevents the meat from steaming instead of browning.
Adjust Cooking Time: If you’re using the high setting, reduce the cooking time to 1.5 to 2 hours. Check for tenderness as it cooks.
Mix Sauce Consistency: For a perfect sauce, ensure cornstarch is fully dissolved in cold water before adding it. This prevents lumps in your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef.
Add Veggies for Variety: Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli in the last hour of cooking to boost nutrition and flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Refrigerate: Store your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This way, you can enjoy the flavors even after a busy week!
Freeze: You can freeze the dish in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing.
Thawing: For the best results, thaw your frozen Mongolian beef in the fridge overnight before reheating it to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating: Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warm. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort!

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right flank steak?
Absolutely! When selecting flank steak, look for a piece that has a bright red color and minimal dark spots. The meat should feel firm to the touch and have just a bit of marbling, which adds to its tenderness. For variations, you can opt for sirloin or chuck roast, but ensure they’re also fresh and of high quality.

How should I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Very good question! To store your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just remember to reheat it gently to maintain its delicious flavor!

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Yes, you can! To freeze, make sure the beef is completely cooled and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should be fine for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. It’ll taste just as delightful!

What if the sauce doesn’t thicken properly?
Don’t worry; it happens! If your sauce isn’t thickening as expected, make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Cover and let it thicken, checking until it reaches your desired consistency.

Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! You can easily make this Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce. Just double-check other packaged ingredients for gluten-containing additives to keep everything safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I add vegetables to the Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Yes, the more the merrier! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can enhance both nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in during the last hour of cooking to keep them crisp and vibrant. It’s a simple way to boost your meal!