Name: Savory Mongolian Beef: Quick Homemade Comfort in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Flank Steak (Slice thinly against the grain.); 1/4 cup Cornstarch (Coat beef for crispy texture.); 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (Opt for low-sodium.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Use dark brown sugar for richer taste.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Minced, for flavor.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced, essential aromatic.); 3 cups Steamed Rice (White or brown rice.); Optional Vegetables (Broccolini, bell peppers, or snap peas.)

The sizzling sounds of a hot wok and the fragrant wafts of garlic and ginger instantly transport me to my favorite Chinese restaurant. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a classic: Homemade P.F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef. This quick and easy recipe captures the sweet and savory essence of the original, bringing restaurant-quality comfort food right to your kitchen. Imagine tender strips of beef coated in a glossy soy-garlic glaze, served over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s the perfect solution for those evenings when you crave something delicious but don’t want to wait for takeout. Plus, it’s a delightful way to impress family or friends with minimal effort! Are you ready to create this comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds?

Why is this Mongolian Beef so special?

Simplicity at its Best: This recipe is designed for busy cooks, delivering mouthwatering Mongolian Beef in just 30 minutes.

Rich, Authentic Flavor: A perfect blend of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and aromatic garlic, replicating the restaurant experience at home.

Versatile Delights: Customize your dish with fresh veggies like broccoli or snap peas, catering to your family’s preferences while adding nutrients.

Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for serving guests or a cozy family dinner, this dish promises to impress and satisfy everyone’s appetite.

Comfort Food Perfection: Each tender bite, enveloped in a glossy glaze, brings the warmth and joy that only homemade meals can provide. Celebrate your kitchen prowess with this easy recipe, or check out our other favorites like Garlic Butter Beef Bites for more delicious options!

Mongolian Beef Ingredients

For the Beef
• Flank Steak – The key protein for tenderness; slice thinly against the grain for the best texture. You can substitute with sirloin if needed.
• Cornstarch – Creates a crispy coating for the beef as it’s stir-fried; essential for that perfect crunch.

For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – Provides that savory, umami flavor; opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness better.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish; use dark brown sugar if you prefer a richer taste.
• Fresh Ginger – A fresh kick that elevates the overall flavor profile; always go fresh for maximum zing.
• Garlic – Essential aromatic that deepens the sauce flavor; using fresh garlic delivers the best results.

To Serve
• Steamed Rice – Offers a fluffy base to soak up the delicious sauce; white or brown rice both work beautifully.
• Optional Vegetables – Customize your dish with broccolini, bell peppers, or snap peas for added nutrition and a pop of color.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade P.F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Slice the Beef
Begin by placing your flank steak on a cutting board, and using a sharp knife, slice it thinly against the grain. Aim for strips about 1/4 inch thick to ensure tenderness. Once sliced, generously coat the beef with cornstarch, mixing thoroughly to ensure an even covering. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture in your Mongolian Beef.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced fresh ginger, and minced garlic until well combined. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully. This sweet and savory sauce is at the heart of your Homemade P.F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef, so make sure everything is well blended before moving on.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, adding a tablespoon of oil once it’s hot. In small batches, add the coated beef strips to the pan—avoid overcrowding to ensure they stay crispy. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through, looking deliciously caramelized at the edges. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Sauce
Next, pour the prepared sauce into the same pan over medium heat, scraping up any browned bits left from the beef. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it starts to thicken slightly. You’ll notice a rich aroma filling your kitchen as the sauce reduces and the flavors intensify for your Mongolian Beef masterpiece.

Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked beef to the pan and toss it in the sauce, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is well-coated. The beef should glisten with the glossy glaze, highlighting the gorgeous color. Once everything is combined, serve immediately over a bed of fluffy steamed rice, or add stir-fried vegetables for a colorful, nutritious meal.

What to Serve with Homemade P.F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef

Creating the perfect dining experience is all about delightful pairings that elevate your meal to a whole new level.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, jasmine rice absorbs the rich soy-garlic glaze perfectly, enhancing every bite of your Mongolian Beef.
Stir-Fried Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli adds a vibrant color and provides a crunchy contrast, balancing the dish’s savory and sweet flavors beautifully.
Garlic Bok Choy: A light and tender vegetable that complements the beef’s richness while introducing a delicate garlic flavor to your plate.
Sesame Noodles: Silky noodles drizzled with sesame sauce offer an enticing texture and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the beef’s bold taste.
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunch, a simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar adds a zesty bite that lightens the overall meal and cleanses the palate.
Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, a bowl of miso soup adds a subtle umami backdrop that enhances your Mongolian Beef experience.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay offers a crisp, fruity balance to the hearty flavors, making it a delightful pairing for your meal.
Chocolate Ginger Brownies: End your meal on a sweet note with rich brownies infused with ginger, echoing the flavors of your dish while satisfying your dessert cravings!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade P.F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can slice the flank steak and coat it with cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the sauce can be pre-prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days, enhancing its flavor as it sits. When it’s time to cook, simply stir-fry the beef and then add the sauce, finishing with a quick simmer. This ensures your Mongolian Beef is just as delicious, with all the rich flavor intact, giving you that comforting, homemade taste while making dinner a breeze!

Mongolian Beef Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lighter flavor that’s still impactful.
Vegetable-Packed: Toss in broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers during the stir-fry for a vibrant, nutritional boost.
Sweetness Adjustment: Increase or decrease the brown sugar in the sauce to suit your delightful preferences.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha for a heat level that will warm your soul.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in some toasted sesame oil at the end for a rich, nutty aroma that enhances the dish.
Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce with gluten-free tamari, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting meal.
Quinoa Variation: Serve over cooked quinoa instead of rice for a nutrient-rich alternative that pairs perfectly with the glaze.

For more flavorful inspiration, explore dishes like Garlic Butter Beef or Ranch Beef Pasta that celebrate robust flavors—each tailored for your culinary adventure!

Storage Tips for Mongolian Beef

Fridge: Store leftover Mongolian Beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while ensuring it remains safe to eat.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Mongolian Beef in an airtight container for up to 2 months. This allows you to enjoy this delicious dish at a later time without sacrificing taste.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of water to achieve the desired consistency.

Serving Fresh: To preserve texture, it’s best to reheat and serve freshly made Mongolian Beef rather than frozen. Enjoy the comforting flavors again!

Expert Tips for Mongolian Beef

Slice for Tenderness: Always cut the flank steak against the grain. This technique breaks down the muscle fibers, ensuring each bite is deliciously tender.
Avoid Overcrowding: When stir-frying, keep the beef in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can cause the meat to steam rather than fry, compromising that crispy texture you want.
Perfect the Sauce: If the sauce isn’t thickening as desired, simply let it simmer a bit longer. This will enhance the flavors of your Mongolian Beef while achieving that desired coating consistency.
Marinate for Extra Tenderness: For an even juicier beef, marinate the flank steak in soy sauce and a touch of baking soda for about 30 minutes before coating. This process can greatly enhance its tenderness.
Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness in your Mongolian Beef. You can make it less sweet or more decadent to suit your family’s tastes.

Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs

What type of beef should I use for Mongolian Beef?
I recommend using flank steak for this recipe as it provides amazing tenderness when sliced against the grain. If you can’t find flank steak, sirloin is a great alternative, offering a slightly different texture while still delivering delicious results.

How should I store leftover Mongolian Beef?
Store your leftover Mongolian Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its delicious flavor and ensure that it stays safe to eat.

Can I freeze Mongolian Beef, and if so, how?
Absolutely! You can freeze Mongolian Beef for up to 2 months. To do this, allow the beef to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Is it okay to adjust the sweetness in Mongolian Beef?
Very! You can absolutely tweak the brown sugar amount to suit your taste preferences—whether you want it a bit sweeter or less so. Start with the recommended amount and adjust in small increments to find your perfect balance.

What should I do if the sauce doesn’t thicken properly?
If you notice the sauce isn’t thickening as you’d like, simply let it simmer a bit longer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and you’ll see it start to reduce and thicken beautifully, coating the beef perfectly.

Can my pet have any of the ingredients in Mongolian Beef?
Be cautious! While many ingredients are safe for human consumption, some are not suitable for pets. Soy sauce contains high sodium levels and garlic can be toxic to animals. Keep the Mongolian Beef safely out of reach from pets, and consider preparing a pet-friendly meal for them instead!