Name: Mongolian Beef Recipe with Scallions: A Flavorful Quick Win
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Flank Steak (Slice thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness.); 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (Brings savory depth; use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free option.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness; adjust to taste, or use a sugar alternative.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Essential thickening agent for a glossy sauce.); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Necessary for high-heat cooking.); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced, enhances flavor.); 1 tablespoon Ginger (Grated, provides warmth and spice.); 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional, adjust spiciness.); 4 scallions Scallions (Cut into 1-inch pieces; can substitute with chives.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper

As I stirred the sizzling beef in my skillet, the room filled with an aroma that transported me straight to bustling Asian street markets. This simple Mongolian Beef Recipe with Scallions is my go-to for a quick weeknight win, taking just 25 minutes to prepare! With the rich umami flavor of soy sauce, the warmth of ginger, and the delightful crunch of fresh scallions, this dish doesn’t just satisfy; it brings joy to the dinner table. Plus, it’s highly customizable—it can easily be made gluten-free or adjusted for those who prefer a little extra spice. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or enjoying a quiet night in, this easy stir-fry is sure to impress. Ready to dive into a deliciously satisfying meal in no time? Let’s get cooking!

Why Is This Mongolian Beef Recipe Special?

Quick and Easy: This Mongolian Beef recipe is ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

Flavor Explosion: The rich umami soy sauce, complemented by the freshness of ginger and the crunch of scallions, creates a culinary experience you won’t forget.

Customizable: Whether you prefer a gluten-free option or want to amp up the heat with extra chili flakes, this recipe is easily adjustable to suit your personal taste.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for families or casual gatherings, everyone will rave about this delicious dish that feels gourmet yet is incredibly simple to prepare.

Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and even freeze beautifully, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep.

Don’t forget to check out more delightful recipes like Moist Banana Cream or tips for Honey Mustard Chicken to expand your weeknight dinner repertoire!

Mongolian Beef Recipe With Scallions Ingredients

For the Beef

Flank Steak – Slice thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness.
Soy Sauce – Brings savory depth; use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness; adjust to your taste, or use a sugar alternative for a healthier version.
Cornstarch – Essential thickening agent for a glossy sauce.

For the Stir-Fry

Vegetable Oil – Necessary for high-heat cooking; choose an oil that can withstand heat.
Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
Ginger (grated) – Provides warmth and spice; fresh ginger is highly recommended.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adjust the spicy level to your preference for a personalized kick.
Scallions (cut into 1-inch pieces) – Adds freshness and crunch; can be substituted with chives.

Final Seasoning

Salt and Pepper – Season to taste and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Experience the delightful combination of flavors with this Mongolian Beef recipe with scallions that’s sure to become a new favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mongolian Beef Recipe With Scallions: A Quick Weeknight Win

Step 1: Marinate Beef
In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional red pepper flakes. Place the thinly sliced flank steak into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow the beef to marinate for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and tenderize the meat as you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Heat Oil
In a large wok or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering and hot. This should take about 2-3 minutes. It’s essential to use an oil with a high smoke point to achieve the desired sear. Make sure the pan is well preheated to ensure that the beef cooks evenly without steaming.

Step 3: Sear Beef
Carefully add the marinated beef to the hot pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd it. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the edges turn golden brown. After searing, stir the beef for another 2-3 minutes until it’s fully cooked through and beautifully caramelized. The Mongolian Beef should be browned with a slightly glossy finish at this point.

Step 4: Thicken Sauce
Sprinkle cornstarch evenly over the seared beef, stirring well to combine. This will thicken the sauce, giving it that signature glossy texture. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a splash of water, allowing it to simmer gently for another minute while stirring, ensuring all the flavors integrate seamlessly.

Step 5: Add Scallions
Toss in the cut scallions, mixing them into the beef mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the scallions are tender yet still vibrant and crisp. This final step enhances the dish’s color and adds a wonderful crunch to the Mongolian Beef, providing a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.

Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste your Mongolian Beef and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve the beef hot over a bed of steamed rice or lo mein noodles. Enjoy a satisfying and quick weeknight meal that’s sure to impress your loved ones!

Mongolian Beef Recipe With Scallions Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists on the classic Mongolian Beef, allowing your culinary creativity to shine through!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a slightly sweeter, soy-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Vegetarian: Swap the beef for extra firm tofu; marinate and sauté the tofu until golden for a satisfying vegan option.
Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to elevate the heat. This will bring a bold kick that delights spice enthusiasts!
Sweet Adjustments: Experiment with honey or maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a natural sweetener that adds depth. The sweetness balances the savory beautifully.
Nutty Flavor: Toasted sesame oil can be drizzled over the dish at the end for a nutty aroma that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Greens Upgrade: Toss in a handful of baby bok choy or snap peas along with the scallions to add a pop of color and extra nutrition to your meal.
Crispy Garnish: Top with roasted peanuts or sesame seeds for added crunch. This will introduce different textures that make every bite exciting!
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free without sacrificing any of the umami flavors you love.

For additional fresh ideas, check out my Beef Bourguignon Savor or enhance your meal with these Greek Roast Potatoes with Lemon and Feta. There’s always room to explore new tastes in your kitchen!

How to Store and Freeze Mongolian Beef

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container, and they will keep fresh for up to 3-4 days. This makes for a convenient meal option when time is tight.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Mongolian Beef in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before putting it in the freezer.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

Reheating: When reheating, make sure to warm the beef until heated through and the scallions retain some crispness to ensure a delightful dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Mongolian Beef with Scallions are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the beef up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply for a richer taste. Simply combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger in a bowl, add the sliced flank steak, and let it soak in the fridge. Additionally, the scallions can be chopped up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. When you’re ready to serve, heat the oil, sear the marinated beef, thicken the sauce, and toss in the scallions for just a couple of minutes, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish in no time!

What to Serve with Mongolian Beef with Scallions?

Serve this delightful stir-fry alongside dishes that perfectly complement its rich flavors and textures.

Steamed White Rice: Simple and fluffy, it soaks up the savory sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying experience with every bite.
Lo Mein Noodles: Their chewy texture pairs delightfully with the tender beef, making for a comforting complement to the meal. Tossed in a touch of sesame oil, they enhance the flavors of the Mongolian Beef further.
Garlic Broccoli: Fresh and vibrant, sautéed garlic broccoli adds a crunchy element that balances the dish while upping the nutrition factor. The mild garlic flavor harmonizes well with the strong umami notes.
Crispy Egg Rolls: These golden-brown, crispy delights serve as a wonderful starter, with their savory filling and crunch preparing your palate for the main course.
Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: A refreshing contrast, this salad brightens the meal with its tangy flavors and crunchy cucumbers, cleansing the palate between bites.
Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Elevate your dining experience by pairing your meal with chilled sake, offering a smooth finish to every bite, or opt for refreshing green tea to cleanse the palate.

Expert Tips for Mongolian Beef Recipe

Slice Against the Grain: Thinly slicing flank steak against the grain enhances tenderness, ensuring each bite melts in your mouth.
Avoid Overcrowding: When searing the beef, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This promotes even browning and prevents steaming—key for a perfect Mongolian Beef.
Adjust Sweetness: Customize your Mongolian Beef by adjusting the brown sugar. For a healthier option, consider substituting with a low-calorie sweetener.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger pack more flavor than their powdered counterparts, enhancing the richness of your dish.
Let It Rest: If you have leftovers, allow the beef to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent sogginess, keeping your dish delightful for days!
Spice It Up: If you’re a heat-lover, don’t shy away from adding more red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice level according to your taste for that perfect kick!

Mongolian Beef Recipe with Scallions Recipe FAQs

What type of flank steak should I use for this recipe?
Choose a well-marbled flank steak for the best tenderness and flavor. Look for a cut that is a deep red color and has minimal dark spots. This ensures you have a quality piece of meat that will cook beautifully and deliver that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

How should I store leftover Mongolian Beef?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Letting the dish cool completely before sealing helps prevent sogginess, keeping it delightful for later meals. For meal prep, this dish is fantastic as a make-ahead option!

Can I freeze Mongolian Beef for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Mongolian Beef in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water as needed to maintain sauce consistency.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce becomes too thick during cooking, simply add a small splash of water or low-sodium beef broth to thin it out. Stir gently and let it simmer for a minute on low heat until the desired consistency is reached. This will help retain that glossy finish!

Is this Mongolian Beef recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it can easily be made gluten-free! Just substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. This way, you can enjoy the rich flavors without any gluten concerns. Always double-check all labels if you have strict dietary needs.

Can I adjust the spice level in my Mongolian Beef?
Very! You can customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes you add. For a milder dish, skip the flakes altogether, or for more heat, increase the amount or drizzle in some sriracha during the cooking process. The more the merrier!