This single serve Mongolian Beef recipe features tender slices of flank steak coated in a flavorful, savory-sweet sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an easy, restaurant-quality dish perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Prep Time5 minutesmins
Cook Time15 minutesmins
Total Time20 minutesmins
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Chinese
Keyword: flank steak, mongolian beef, single serving mongolian beef
Coat the Steak: Place the strips of steak in a bowl. Add cornstarch and toss until evenly coated. Alternatively, place the steak and cornstarch in a ziplock bag and shake to coat.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Set aside.
Cook the Steak: Heat oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a plate and cover.
Sauté Aromatics: Add garlic and ginger to the pan and cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds.
Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the sauce and cook, stirring frequently, until it comes to a boil.
Combine: Return the steak to the pan and stir for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Finish: Stir in the green onions and cook for 20 seconds.
Prepare Ahead: Read through the recipe and ingredient notes before starting. This dish cooks quickly, so having everything prepped ensures the best results.
Maintain Heat Control: Keep the pan at medium-high heat for a good sear on the beef without overcooking.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, and green onions add the best flavor—avoid dried substitutes if possible.
Thicken the Sauce: If needed, let the sauce simmer a bit longer to reach your desired consistency.
For tender beef, slice against the grain into 1/4-inch thick strips. A sharp knife helps with precision. Freezing the steak for 20 minutes before slicing makes it easier to cut thinly without tearing.