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.
Ingredients
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
Directions
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.
Variations & Tips
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.
How to Store Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chow Mein
Refrigerator:
Allow the chow mein to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Freezer:
For longer storage, this dish freezes well before adding the noodles.
Let the beef mixture cool, then store it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat, and toss in fresh cooked noodles just before serving to avoid mushy texture.
Tip: If you plan to freeze, consider setting aside the portion you want to freeze before adding the coleslaw and noodles—they’re best added fresh.
Nutritional Information
(Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: 390
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugars: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 820mg
Note: Nutrition will vary based on exact ingredients and brands used, especially with the noodles and sauces.
For a lighter version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey and use low-sodium soy sauce and broth.