Easy Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef (P.F. Chang Style)

This dish boats tender, savory beef with a hint of sweetness and a kick of garlic and ginger, all cooked to perfection in your trusty slow cooker. This Mongolian Beef recipe is the kind of dish that will have your family running to the dinner table—even the skeptics! It’s ridiculously easy to make, but it tastes like you’ve been working all day.

Ingredients

Steak: Thinly sliced for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Cornstarch: Coats the steak and helps thicken the sauce.

Vegetable Oil: Used for searing the steak and bringing everything together.

Low Sodium Soy Sauce: The salty, umami base of the sauce.

Brown Sugar: Adds the perfect balance of sweetness.

Ground Ginger: Brings a warm, aromatic flavor to the dish.

Minced Garlic: For that bold, garlicky punch.

Green Onions: The fresh garnish that adds color and a subtle bite.

How to Make It

Start by tossing your thinly sliced steak in cornstarch. This step is key for that velvety texture we all love. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sauté the steak for about 5 minutes until it’s lightly browned. While that’s going, whisk together the remaining oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic in a medium bowl. The smell alone will make your mouth water.

Transfer the browned steak to your slow cooker and pour the marinade over it. Set the slow cooker to high for 2 hours or low for 4 hours. The hardest part is waiting! When the time is up, toss in some sliced green onions and let it all cook for another 10 minutes. Serve warm over rice or noodles, and prepare for everyone to beg for seconds.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Do I really need to brown the steak first? Technically, no, but it adds incredible flavor and texture. What’s the best way to slice the steak thinly? Pop it in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before slicing—it makes the process so much easier.

When to Serve This Dish

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious with minimal effort. It also shines as a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or even a casual dinner party. Pair it with a side of steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

How to Store Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen up the sauce if needed. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

The first time I made this, my kids gave me that look. You know, the “what is this?” look that only kids can master. But as soon as they took their first bites, they were hooked. My youngest even declared, “Mom, this tastes like restaurant food!” Now, it’s one of their most requested dinners, and I love how easy it is to whip up.

Tips for Making This Recipe with Kids

Kids can help toss the steak in cornstarch (it’s like playing with powdery snow). Older kids can whisk the marinade together and sprinkle on the green onions at the end. Just keep little hands away from the hot skillet.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a winner because it nails the balance of flavors—savory, sweet, garlicky, and slightly spicy from the ginger. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, turning the steak into melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides, making it a go-to meal that never gets old.

Here are some more amazing Slow Cooker dinner recipes to try!