0 Shares

As the sun dipped below the horizon, I found myself craving something hearty yet effortless. That’s when this Slow Cooker Korean Beef recipe became my saving grace. The aroma of sesame oil and sweet brown sugar wafting through the kitchen felt like a warm embrace, making the hustle of the day melt away. You know those evenings when you’d rather not spend hours slaving over a stove? This dish comes to the rescue with its magical blend of sweet and savory flavors — it’s everything you need and more.

Picture this: a tender flank steak, slow-cooked to perfection in a tantalizing sauce that rivals your favorite takeout. The best part? You simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Whether you’re serving it over fluffy rice for a family dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, let’s dive into this delightful adventure and bring the taste of Korean comfort food right into your home!

Why is Slow Cooker Korean Beef a must-try?

Effortless Preparation: This recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy lifestyles. Just mix your ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work!

Flavor Explosion: The rich combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates an incredible depth of flavor that’s both sweet and savory.

Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist!

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Healthy Comfort Food: Satisfying and wholesome, this slow cooker meal provides comfort without the guilt. Try it tonight and explore the joys of homemade goodness!

Slow Cooker Korean Beef Ingredients

• The perfect mix for this delightful dish!

For the Beef

1.5 lbs flank steak – Choose this cut for its tenderness and ability to soak up flavors.
1/4 cup cornstarch – A great thickening agent to ensure your sauce clings to the beef beautifully.

For the Sauce

2 tbsp sesame oil – Adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
1/2 tsp garlic powder – For a subtle, aromatic touch that brings all the flavors together.
1/2 cup soy sauce – The backbone of this Slow Cooker Korean Beef, providing essential umami taste.
3/4 cup brown sugar – Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with a hint of sweetness.

For the Vegetables

1 onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the overall flavor profile.
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes – A pinch to bring warmth and a mild kick to the dish.

Embrace the aromas and flavors of homemade goodness with this easy recipe!

How to Make Slow Cooker Korean Beef

Whisk Together: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and diced onion. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the sugar dissolves.
Prepare the Crockpot: Place the flank steak in your slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture directly over the top. Ensure the beef is well-coated with that aromatic blend.
Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Let it work its magic until the beef is tender and infused with flavor.
Shred and Stir: Once finished cooking, use two forks to shred or cut the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the beef to the crockpot and gently stir it to combine with the sauce.
Serve: Ladle the delicious Slow Cooker Korean Beef over fluffy rice. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!

Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for a refreshing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Korean Beef

Quality Meat: Always choose a good quality flank steak to ensure tenderness and flavor absorption during cooking.
Thickening Dreams: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water to the slow cooker before the final hour of cooking.
Adjusting Spice: For those who like it spicier, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes gradually. Taste before serving to find your perfect balance!
Resting Time: Let the cooked meat sit in the sauce for an additional 15-30 minutes after shredding. This allows more flavor to penetrate the beef.
Satisfying Leftovers: This Slow Cooker Korean Beef tastes even better the next day! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, warming it gently before serving again.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Korean Beef?

Transform your dinner into a feast with delightful pairings that enhance the tender, flavorful beef.

Fluffy White Rice: This classic staple absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, offering a perfect canvas for each bite of Korean beef.
Steamed Broccoli: Crisp and vibrant, it adds freshness and a satisfying crunch, balancing the dish’s rich flavors with its lightness.
Sweet Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds a tangy crunch. The slight sweetness and creaminess make for a delightful contrast to the savory beef.
Kimchi Fried Rice: For those craving a flavor punch, this dish complements with its spicy and savory notes, enhancing the meal with exciting textures.
Sesame Green Beans: Stir-fried with garlic and sesame oil, they bring a nutty flavor and vibrant color, amplifying the dish’s refreshing elements wonderfully.
Spicy Pickles: Their zesty crunch provides a perfect, tangy contrast to the succulent beef, awakening your taste buds with each mouthful.
Mango Lassi: This creamy drink cools the palate and offers a sweet finish to the meal, balancing the dish’s savory richness beautifully.
Chocolate Molten Lava Cake: For dessert, this decadent treat brings a warm, gooey contrast for a satisfying end to your Korean-inspired feast.

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Korean Beef

Fridge: Store leftover Slow Cooker Korean Beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, place the beef in a freezer-safe container after it’s cooled. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your Slow Cooker Korean Beef again, reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick.

Thawing: Always thaw frozen beef in the refrigerator overnight for the safest and tastiest results before reheating.

Slow Cooker Korean Beef Variations

Feel free to personalize this comforting dish, making it even more delicious in ways your family will love!

Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor.
Sweet Heat: Add a tablespoon of gochujang or sriracha for an extra kick that intensifies the savory sweetness.
Veggie Boost: Toss in carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli into the crockpot during the last hour of cooking for a vibrant, nutritious twist!
Citrus Zing: Stir in the juice from one lime or orange before serving to add a refreshing, tangy layer that brightens the dish.
Honey Alternative: Swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness that’s equally delightful.
Savory Mushroom: Incorporate shiitake or portobello mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the rich sauce beautifully. Their tender texture enriches the overall experience.
Beer Baste: Use a light beer instead of some of the soy sauce for a unique depth of flavor that enhances the profile beautifully.
Slightly Smoky: Add a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce before cooking if you enjoy that intriguing, smoky undertone.

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Cooker Korean Beef preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal planning. You can prep the sauce by whisking together all the sauce ingredients (up to 3 days in advance) and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can also slice the flank steak and keep it sealed in a separate container for 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply add the steak to your crockpot, pour the prepped sauce over it, and let it cook as directed. This approach ensures your meal retains its rich flavors and tenderness, delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal effort on your busy weeknight!

Slow Cooker Korean Beef Recipe FAQs

What kind of flank steak should I choose?
When selecting flank steak, look for a cut that is deep red with thin veins of fat running through it. The fat will help keep the meat moist during cooking. Avoid pieces with dark spots or a grayish hue. Fresh meat usually has a nice sheen and is firm to the touch.

How should I store leftover Slow Cooker Korean Beef?
Absolutely! To store your leftover Slow Cooker Korean Beef, transfer it to an airtight container and let it cool completely first. This will help maintain its freshness. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure each portion is well-sealed to avoid any unwanted odors.

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Korean Beef?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooled beef in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty ziplock bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What if my sauce is too thin?
If you find your sauce isn’t thickening as you’d like after cooking, don’t worry! You can mix an extra tablespoon of cornstarch with a splash of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking, and it will help thicken the sauce nicely.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! This Slow Cooker Korean Beef contains soy sauce, which can be a concern for those with gluten sensitivities. You can substitute with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a similar flavor without the gluten. Additionally, always check the labels on condiments like sesame oil for potential allergens. If cooking for pets, keep the beef and sauces away from them, as many ingredients are not pet-friendly.