If you’ve ever dined at P.F. Chang’s, you know that their Mongolian Beef is a standout dish, combining tender slices of beef in a sweet and savory sauce that’s simply irresistible. The best part? You don’t need to make a reservation or brave the restaurant crowd to enjoy this delightful dish. With our Super Easy Mongolian Beef (P.F. Changs Copycat) recipe, you can create this culinary masterpiece right in your own kitchen, using simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand.

The tender flank steak, coated in a crispy cornstarch crust and bathed in a rich sauce, makes this recipe not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this dish will impress and satisfy. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish at home!

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This recipe is reliable because it uses straightforward ingredients and techniques that yield consistent results every time. The use of flank steak ensures tenderness when sliced thinly, while the cornstarch creates a delightful crunch. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic delivers a flavor-packed experience that captures the essence of Mongolian Beef without any complicated steps. Plus, it’s adaptable for varying tastes and preferences, making it a go-to recipe in many households.

Ingredient Checklist

1 pound flank steak, sliced thin
1/4 cup cornstarch
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon minced ginger
3 garlic cloves, minced
Pinch of red pepper flakes
Green onions, sliced for garnish

Hardware & Gadgets

Sharp knife – for slicing the flank steak thinly.
Cutting board – to provide a safe surface for cutting.
Large skillet or wok – essential for stir-frying the beef.
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
Whisk – for combining the sauce ingredients thoroughly.

How to Prepare Super Easy Mongolian Beef (P.F. Changs Copycat)

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by slicing the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This helps ensure that the meat remains tender during cooking. Aim for pieces that are about 1/4 inch thick for the best texture.

Step 2: Coat the Beef

In a large bowl, toss the sliced beef with cornstarch until well-coated. The cornstarch will create a crispy exterior when cooked, giving you that signature Mongolian Beef texture.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated beef strips in a single layer. You may need to cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Cook the beef for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned and crispy. Remove the cooked beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced ginger and garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once the sauce has thickened slightly (about 2-3 minutes), return the beef to the skillet. Toss the beef in the sauce until well-coated. Cook for an additional minute to heat through, then remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

Flank Steak: Can be substituted with sirloin or ribeye for a different flavor profile.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos can be used for a gluten-free option.
Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar or honey can serve as a natural sweetener alternative.
Red Pepper Flakes: Fresh chilies or sriracha can be used for added heat.

Method to the Madness

The key to achieving the perfect Super Easy Mongolian Beef (P.F. Changs Copycat) lies in the preparation and cooking technique. Slicing the beef against the grain ensures tenderness, while the cornstarch helps create that essential crispiness. Cooking the beef in batches prevents steaming, allowing for a nice sear. The sauce is a simple yet effective mix of sweet and savory flavors that pairs beautifully with the beef, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet is simple to make.

Shelf Life & Storage

Leftover Super Easy Mongolian Beef (P.F. Changs Copycat) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. The sauce may thicken upon refrigeration, so you might want to add a splash of water or a bit more soy sauce to loosen it up when reheating. For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Reader Q&A

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, while flank steak is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Just be sure to slice them thinly against the grain for the best results.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a spicier version of Super Easy Mongolian Beef (P.F. Changs Copycat), you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh sliced chilies or sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.

What can I serve with Mongolian Beef?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or even noodles. You can also serve it alongside sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the beef is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the beef and combine everything when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.

Let’s Eat

Now that you have your ingredients ready and your kitchen prepped, it’s time to enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade Super Easy Mongolian Beef (P.F. Changs Copycat). This dish is not only a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner lineup but also a hit for gatherings and special occasions. With its savory-sweet flavors and tender beef, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Gather your loved ones, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, and dig into a plate of pure satisfaction. Happy cooking!