Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tender and Juicy: Slow cooking ensures melt-in-your-mouth beef.
Sweet and Savory Sauce: Balanced flavors with garlic and ginger notes.
Easy Prep: Simply combine ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work.
Versatile Serving: Perfect over steamed rice, noodles, or with vegetables.

Ingredients

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

1.5 pounds flank steak, thinly sliced
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 green onions, sliced
Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Directions

Prepare Beef: Thinly slice flank steak against the grain and place in the slow cooker.
Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Pour over the beef.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until beef is tender.
Thicken Sauce: Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir into the slow cooker, then cover and cook on high for another 15-30 minutes until sauce thickens.
Serve: Stir in sliced green onions and serve over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Total Time: 4-6 hours

Variations

Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking.
Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add fresh chili.
Use Different Beef Cuts: Sirloin or skirt steak work well too.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead?

Yes, make ahead and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I slice the beef thinly?

Freeze the beef for 20-30 minutes to firm it up for easier slicing.

Can I use frozen beef?

Thaw before cooking for best results.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mild unless you add extra red pepper flakes.

Can I cook vegetables with the beef?

Yes, add vegetables in the last hour to keep them crisp.

How do I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?

Use arrowroot powder or reduce sauce by cooking uncovered.

Can I use brown sugar substitutes?

Yes, honey or maple syrup can be used with slight flavor changes.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Use a low-carb sweetener instead of brown sugar to make it keto-friendly.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the pressure cook setting for about 20 minutes.

What sides go well with Mongolian beef?

Steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried vegetables pair well.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is an easy, flavorful, and tender dish that brings the beloved takeout classic to your home kitchen. With minimal prep and a rich, balanced sauce, it’s perfect for satisfying dinners any day of the week.