I'm no master chef, but this dish has been a hit every time!

This Slow Cooker Savory Ground Beef Chow Mein is a delightful twist on the classic Mongolian Beef, perfect for those busy weekdays when you crave something comforting yet easy to prepare. Growing up in the Midwest, chow mein was a staple in our household, but this version swaps out the traditional beef strips for ground beef, making it more budget-friendly and quick to prepare. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on your day while it infuses the dish with rich, savory flavors. It's a cozy meal that brings a touch of Asian-inspired cuisine to your dinner table, perfect for sharing with family or friends.

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side of steamed broccoli or snap peas to add a pop of color and extra nutrition. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside some egg rolls or dumplings. A light cucumber salad with a tangy sesame dressing can also complement the savory flavors of the chow mein, balancing the meal with a refreshing crunch.

Servings: 4-6 servings

1 1/2 pounds ground beef
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup beef broth
1 large onion, thinly sliced
14 oz bag of coleslaw mix
8 oz cooked chow mein noodles
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Sliced green onions, for garnish

Brown the ground beef with minced garlic in a skillet over medium heat. Drain the excess fat and transfer the beef to a slow cooker.

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), brown sugar, and beef broth.

Pour the sauce over the ground beef in the slow cooker. Add the sliced onion and stir to combine.

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

Thirty minutes before serving, stir in the coleslaw mix.

Just before serving, toss in the cooked chow mein noodles.

Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition. If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with different types of noodles, such as rice noodles or udon, to change up the texture.