Print

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

slow cooker mongolian beef - featured image

A tender, sweet-savory slow cooker Mongolian beef recipe that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. This homemade dish delivers the nostalgic flavors of Chinese takeout with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds beef flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce (Kikkoman preferred)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 3 stalks green onions, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (optional, for searing)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice the beef thinly against the grain into about 1/4 inch thick slices.
  2. Optional: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear beef slices for about 1 minute per side until browned.
  3. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and beef broth. Stir until sugar dissolves.
  4. Place beef slices in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over the top. Stir gently to coat the meat.
  5. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours for a quicker option.
  6. About 15 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
  7. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy finish.
  8. Garnish with sliced green onions and a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving.

Notes

Searing the beef before slow cooking adds extra flavor but can be skipped. Add the cornstarch slurry slowly to avoid clumping and over-thickening. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Optionally add a splash of sesame oil at the end for nutty aroma. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, Mongolian beef, easy dinner, homemade, beef recipe, Chinese takeout, weeknight meal