Irresistible Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef for Easy Family Dinners

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

After a bustling week of work, the allure of takeout often tempts me, but I ve discovered a secret that not only satisfies my cravings but also fills my home with delightful aromas. Enter my Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef a dish that effortlessly transforms a few simple ingredients into a savory masterpiece. As the beef simmers slowly, absorbing the rich flavors of soy sauce, hoisin, and ginger, it creates a thick, sticky glaze that is nothing short of mouthwatering.

Imagine coming home to the comforting scent of tender beef melting in your mouth, all while knowing you didn t have to brave the drive-thru. This homemade take on a Chinese classic is a lifesaver for any busy evening, making it a perfect meal for friends and family or just a cozy night in. Let s dive into this easy, flavor-packed recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why is Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef a must-try?

Convenience at Its Finest: Let your slow cooker do the hard work while you enjoy your day. Flavor Explosion: The rich, savory sauce makes each bite unforgettable, ensuring your family will rave about it. Customizable Options: Easily swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences, from chicken to tofu. Minimal Prep Time: With just a few simple ingredients, you ll have dinner ready with minimal fuss. Perfect for Meal Prep: The leftovers are as good, if not better, the next day! For more easy meal ideas, check out our other delicious slow-cooker recipes.

Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef Ingredients

Get ready to create a flavor-packed dish with these simple ingredients!

For the Sauce
Chicken Broth Adds depth and moisture to the dish; consider using low-sodium for better control over salt flavor.
Soy Sauce Provides rich umami flavor; opt for reduced-sodium to balance the dish perfectly.
Hoisin Sauce Sweet and unique; can be swapped with oyster sauce for a different twist.
Fresh Gingerroot Infuses aromatic warmth; ground ginger works in a pinch if you re out of fresh.
Sesame Oil Imparts a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste; can substitute with olive oil, but expect a different profile.
Minced Garlic Elevates flavor profoundly; garlic powder may work in a hurry as a substitute.
Salt Fine-tunes seasoning; adjust according to your taste and the saltiness of your broth and sauces.
Dried Red Chiles/Red Pepper Flakes Provides heat; tweak the quantity based on your spice preference.

For the Beef
Beef Flank Steak The star of the dish, known for its tenderness with slow cooking; swap with sirloin or chuck if needed, but watch cooking times.
Medium Onion Adds sweetness and depth; feel free to use any onion variety you prefer.

To Thicken the Sauce
Cornstarch Thickens the sauce beautifully; arrowroot is a gluten-free alternative if necessary.
Water Used for the cornstarch slurry to achieve the desired consistency.

For Serving
Hot Cooked Rice A comforting base for your dish; consider brown rice for added nutrition or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Green Onions & Sesame Seeds Use as optional garnishes for a fresh touch; chopped cilantro or parsley can work as great substitutes!

Get ready to whip up this Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef that will have your taste buds dancing with joy!

How to Make Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef

1. Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, mix together the chicken broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, fresh ginger, sesame oil, minced garlic, salt, and dried chiles. This aromatic base is crucial for infusing the beef with flavor.

2. Add Beef and Onion: Toss in your beef strips and sliced onion, ensuring each piece is well coated in the flavorful sauce. This step lays the foundation for tender, juicy meat.

3. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low, cooking for 4 to 5 hours. You ll know it s ready when the beef becomes tender and easily pulls apart.

4. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Gradually drizzle this into the slow cooker, stirring gently as you add it.

5. Finish Cooking: Switch the slow cooker to high and cover again, cooking for an additional 15 to 30 minutes. You ll know it s done when the sauce has thickened to a delightful glossy glaze.

6. Serve: Dish out the Mongolian beef over hot cooked rice. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired, adding a delightful crunch and freshness.

Optional: Add steamed broccoli or bell peppers for an extra nutritious boost!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef

• Perfect Beef Choice: Select flank steak for optimal tenderness; avoid tougher cuts which may not yield the desired melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Sauce Balance: Adjust the soy sauce and hoisin ratio to suit your taste buds; too much soy can overpower the dish, so start with less.

• Cooking Time Caution: Be mindful of cooking times; overcooking can lead to dry beef. Aim for that perfect 4 to 5 hours on low.

• Slurry Technique: Always mix the cornstarch slurry before adding it to the slow cooker to prevent lumps in your sauce.

• Extra Flavor Kick: Try adding a splash of rice vinegar or a dash of sesame seeds to amplify the flavor of your Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef.

• Serve Smartly: Pair the beef with fresh veggies or a side salad to balance the richness of the dish for a well-rounded meal.

Storage Tips for Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef

Fridge: Store your Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezer: For longer storage, divide the beef into portions and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. This makes reheating easy and keeps the flavors intact.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Serve over fresh rice for a quick meal!

Leftover Rice: Store leftover rice separately in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 6 months to prevent sogginess when reheating the beef.

What to Serve with Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef?

Imagine a cozy dinner table surrounded by loved ones, where every bite not only satisfies but delights.

• Steamed Broccoli: A vibrant green side that adds crunch and nutrition. The slightly bitter taste complements the sweet glaze of the beef beautifully.

• Coconut Jasmine Rice: Fragrant and fluffy, this rice soaks up the rich sauce, making each bite melt in your mouth. The added coconut flavor enhances the Asian-inspired theme perfectly.

• Garlic Bok Choy: Quick sautéed bok choy brings an earthy freshness and a hearty chew to balance the tender beef. You ll love the combination of textures.

• Sesame Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad adds a crisp contrast to the savory beef. The tangy dressing brightens the meal, making it feel complete.

• Fried Dumplings: These crispy bites offer a delightful textural variety and are perfect for dipping in extra sauce or soy sauce. They add a fun twist to your dinner.

• Mango Sticky Rice: Treat your sweet tooth! This dessert beautifully contrasts with the savory notes of Mongolian beef, leaving everyone with a happy ending to the meal.

• Chilled Green Tea: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate and enhances the flavors of your meal. Its lightness pairs perfectly with the richness of the beef.

• Peanut Butter Cookies: Simple and nostalgic, these cookies make a lovely end to the evening, bringing a bit of sweet comfort to your dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your ingredients and mix the beef with the sauce components up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the rice ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality, store the beef and rice separately; this prevents the rice from becoming mushy. When ready to serve, simply add the prepped beef mixture to the slow cooker and follow the cooking instructions, achieving restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own by experimenting with different ingredients for a unique flavor experience!

• Chicken Instead: Substitute beef with chicken for a lighter protein option that still packs a punch of flavor.
• Tofu Twist: For a vegetarian version, swap in firm tofu, which absorbs the savory sauce beautifully.
• Veggie Boost: Add colorful veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and a vibrant dish.
• Heat It Up: Introduce sriracha or your favorite hot sauce if you love a spicy kick that will warm your soul.
• Pineapple Sweetness: Toss in pineapple chunks for a delightful sweet and tangy contrast to the rich sauce.
• Nutty Finish: Drizzle with a touch of peanut sauce before serving for a creamy texture that complements the dish.
• Rice Alternatives: Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a nutritious twist, making it suitable for various diets.
• Garnish Swap: Change up the garnishes by using toasted coconut flakes or chopped herbs like mint for a refreshing lift.

Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Flank steak is the star of this dish, as it becomes tender and flavorful with slow cooking. I suggest avoiding tougher cuts, which may not yield the melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love. If you can t find flank steak, sirloin or chuck steak can serve as alternatives, but keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may vary.

How should I store leftovers of Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef?
To keep your Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up. This way, you ll be ready for a quick and satisfying meal.

Can I freeze Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Absolutely! Divide your Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef into portion-sized airtight containers and freeze them. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember, it s best to store the rice separately, as it can become mushy when frozen with the beef.

How do I reheat frozen Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef?
To enjoy your homemade masterpiece again, thaw the beef in the fridge overnight. When you re ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Serve over fresh rice for a delightful remake of the original dish!

What dietary considerations should I keep in mind for Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Always consider any dietary restrictions or allergies when cooking for friends and family. If someone is gluten-intolerant, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure the hoisin sauce aligns with their dietary needs. For vegetarians, swapping beef for tofu or veggies is a delicious and satisfying alternative.

How can I avoid soggy rice when storing leftovers?
To prevent soggy rice, always store it separately from the Slow-Cooker Mongolian Beef. In the fridge, leftover rice can last for up to 4 days, while it can be frozen for up to 6 months. When it s time to eat, simply reheat the rice and serve it with the beef for the best texture.