Name: Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain; ¼ cup cornstarch; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon minced ginger; ½ cup low sodium soy sauce; ⅓ cup brown sugar; ½ cup water; ½ cup green onions, cut into 1/2 inch pieces

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe

This Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef recipe is a go-to favorite for good reason. The slow cooking process ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while absorbing all the bold flavors of the sauce. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a family-friendly option that’s way better than takeout.

Ingredients

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

flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
cornstarch
toasted sesame oil
minced garlic
minced ginger
low sodium soy sauce
brown sugar
water
green onions, cut into 1/2 inch pieces

Directions

Place the thinly sliced flank steak in a bowl, add the cornstarch, and toss to coat evenly.
Transfer the coated flank steak to the slow cooker.
In a small bowl, mix the toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water until well combined.
Pour the sauce over the steak in the slow cooker, making sure the meat is fully coated.
Cover and cook on HIGH for 2–3 hours or on LOW for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Stir in the green onions just before serving.
Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and timing

Servings: 5
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2–3 hours on HIGH or 4–5 hours on LOW
Total Time: Approximately 3 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce to the mixture for heat.
Veggie Boost: Toss in sliced bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Swap the Protein: Try thinly sliced chicken or pork instead of beef.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Sweetener Swap: Substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
For freezing, place cooled Mongolian beef in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How do I slice flank steak thinly for this recipe?

Place the steak in the freezer for 15–20 minutes before slicing—it firms up the meat, making it easier to slice thinly against the grain.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook it on the stovetop. Sear the beef in a skillet, add the sauce, and simmer until tender and thickened.

What’s the best side to serve with Mongolian beef?

Steamed white rice, jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles all work well. Stir-fried veggies also make a great addition.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the sauce and coat the beef with cornstarch ahead of time. Store separately in the fridge and combine in the slow cooker when ready.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, skirt steak or sirloin can be used as alternatives, but make sure they’re thinly sliced for the best results.

Is this dish spicy?

No, the original recipe is not spicy. You can make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or chili sauce if desired.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

The sauce thickens naturally with cornstarch, but if you prefer it thicker, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking or add a cornstarch slurry.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Yes, the sweet and savory flavors tend to be kid-friendly. You can always adjust the ingredients to suit your family’s taste.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your slow cooker can handle the volume. Cooking time may need slight adjustment but should remain close to the original.

How do I store leftovers safely?

Cool the leftovers completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a flavorful, fuss-free meal that delivers restaurant-style quality right at home. With just a few simple steps and minimal hands-on time, this dish is perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends. Whether served over rice, noodles, or alongside veggies, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again.

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef