Mongolian Beef is typically known for its irresistible sauce and tender strips of beef, but let's twist it a bit, shall we? By trading out the usual flank steak for ground beef and tossing everything into a slow cooker, we get a cozy, equally flavorful version that's perfect for those busy days. And what's more comforting than a big ol' plate of chow mein? Marrying these two creates a meal that’s not only easy to make but incredibly satisfying and a surefire hit with the whole family.
This one-dish wonder is pretty hearty all on its own, but for those of you wanting a little extra, feel free to serve it over a bed of steamed rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. A crisp, refreshing cucumber salad also makes a fabulous side, giving a nice contrast to the warmth of the main dish. And of course, a sprinkling of sesame seeds or chopped green onions can really make the flavors pop.
Slow Cooker Mongolian Ground Beef Chow MeinServings: 6
Ingredients- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 3 garlic cloves, 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, for a little kick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bag (14 oz) coleslaw mix (without dressing)
- 8 oz chow mein noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Directions1. Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Halfway through, add the minced garlic so it gets nicely golden but not burnt. Once the beef is fully cooked and crumbled, drain any excess grease and transfer the beef and garlic to your slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, fresh ginger, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), brown sugar, and beef broth until well combined. Pour this luscious sauce over the beef in the slow cooker.
3. Next, add the thinly sliced onions and give everything a good stir to make sure the flavors are mingling.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before you declare it's suppertime, stir in the coleslaw mix. This will cook it down just enough so it's tender, but still has some crunch.
6. Just before serving, toss in your cooked chow mein noodles and mix well to ensure they’re thoroughly coated in that rich, savory sauce.
7. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions, and there you have it— a meal your family is gonna ask for by name.
Variations & Tips- For those with a tricky palate at home, you can easily make this dish less spicy simply by omitting the red pepper flakes.
- Not a beef fan? Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take.
- If you’re looking to sneak in more veggies, stir in some snap peas, carrots, or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) make tasty fillings for lettuce wraps for a lighter, yet equally satisfying lunch the next day.
Happy slow cooking, folks! This Slow Cooker Mongolian Ground Beef Chow Mein is a true crowd-pleaser and just the perfect dish to spice up your weeknight dinner routine.
