Name: Quick and Easy P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef Fix in 15 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Flank Steak (Slice against the grain for tenderness.); 1/4 cup Cornstarch (For coating the beef.); 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (Low-Sodium) (Base for sauce.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Adjust sweetness to taste.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Minced.); 3 cloves Fresh Garlic (Minced.); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (High smoke point.)

Diving into my kitchen one busy weeknight, I realized that replicating my favorite restaurant dish at home was not only a game-changer but a soul-soothing escape. Craving P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef? A 15-Minute Fix! is a quick and delightful way to savor that savory-sweet harmony that keeps culinary daydreams alive. This recipe not only offers a swift 15-minute prep but also guarantees all the comfort of indulgent takeout without the hefty price tag. Picture tender beef, enveloped in a glossy soy-garlic glaze, transforming your dinner table into a vibrant gastronomic experience that will leave your loved ones in awe. Ready to impress with minimal fuss? Let’s whip up this easy copycat meal together and elevate your weeknight dining!

Craving P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef?

Quick, delicious solution: In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this restaurant-style favorite that’s impossible to resist. Savory-sweet perfection: The blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and fresh garlic creates a harmonious flavor explosion. Impressive dinner: Your family and friends will be thrilled with a dish that rivals the best takeout. Versatile options: Substitute proteins or toss in veggies like bell peppers for variety. Easy to master: This straightforward recipe makes cooking fun, even for busy weeknights. For more quick meals, check out our Minute Mein Amp or Mongolian Ground Beef.

Craving P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef?

Your perfect quick fix: Here’s everything you need to create this delicious meal at home without missing a beat!

For the Beef

Flank Steak – This main protein source is key for tenderness; ensure you slice it against the grain for the best results. You can substitute with sirloin steak if needed.

For the Coating

Cornstarch – Essential for a crispy texture on the beef; use it generously before frying.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce (Low-Sodium) – The flavorful base of your sauce; it balances the sweetness beautifully while keeping your sodium levels in check.
Brown Sugar – Provides the sweetness that balances the savory elements; swap with light or dark brown sugar for varied flavor depth.
Fresh Ginger – Adds warmth and aromatic complexity; don’t skip this ingredient for that authentic taste.
Fresh Garlic – Amplifies the dish’s flavor, bringing a wonderful aroma to your sauce.

For Frying

Vegetable Oil – Choose an oil with a high smoke point for frying to prevent burning; this will help you achieve that perfect crispy exterior.

With these simple ingredients lined up, you’ll be well on your way to satisfying your craving for P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Craving P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef? A 15-Minute Fix!

Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Begin by thinly slicing the flank steak against the grain into bite-sized pieces, which ensures tenderness. Once sliced, place the beef in a bowl and generously coat it with cornstarch, ensuring each piece is covered. This coating is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture when frying. Set the coated beef aside and let it rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, minced fresh ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk these ingredients together until the sugar completely dissolves, creating a smooth, glossy mixture. This sauce will impart the signature savory-sweet flavor of the P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef, so make sure everything is well blended before proceeding.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, pour in about two tablespoons of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when it shimmers and starts to slightly smoke, usually in about 2-3 minutes. It’s important to use oil with a high smoke point to achieve the ideal crispy beef texture without burning.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef
Add the seasoned beef to the hot skillet in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 2-3 minutes per side or until the beef pieces turn a deep, golden brown and develop a crispy exterior. Use tongs or a spatula to turn the beef for even cooking. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and repeat with the remaining batches.

Step 5: Combine Beef and Sauce
Once all of the beef is cooked, return it to the skillet and pour your prepared sauce over the top. Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to coat the beef evenly. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens and clings beautifully to the beef, creating that luscious finish reminiscent of restaurant quality.

Step 6: Serve Hot
Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately serve the Mongolian Beef while hot, garnished with optional green onions if desired. Pair this savory dish with fluffy steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy this quick and easy P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef fresh from your kitchen!

Craving P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef? Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and adapt it to your taste, ensuring a delicious family meal!

Dairy-Free: This dish is naturally dairy-free! Rest easy knowing everyone at the table can enjoy it.
Protein Swap: Try sirloin steak or chicken for a different flavor profile, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Sweetener Adjustment: Decrease the brown sugar or use honey to cater to your sweetness preference; it’s a delicious twist!
Veggie Boost: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for a boost of colorful nutrition and crunch that everyone will love.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a delightful kick that amplifies flavor.
Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free sauce without losing that salty kick!
Crispier Coating: Use potato starch instead of cornstarch for an even crispier texture on your beef, perfect for that restaurant-style experience.

Don’t forget, if you’re looking for a quick and tasty follow-up, check out our Minute Mein Amp or the flavorful Mongolian Ground Beef. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

These P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the flank steak and coat it with cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sauce can also be prepared ahead of time, and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just whisk it before adding to the cooked beef to ensure a smooth consistency. When ready to serve, simply heat vegetable oil in the skillet and stir-fry the prepped beef batches until they’re crispy (about 2-3 minutes each side). Finish by tossing the beef with the sauce, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully, saving you time in the kitchen while delivering restaurant-quality results!

How to Store and Freeze P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef

Room Temperature: For safety and quality, it’s best to avoid leaving your Mongolian Beef at room temperature for longer than 2 hours; refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze the Mongolian Beef, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture. Heat gently on the stovetop to maintain the crispy coating.

What to Serve with Copycat P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef?

Transform your dinner table into a delightful feast with perfect pairings that complement every bite of this savory dish.

Fluffy Steamed Rice: The classic pairing absorbs the flavorful sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crisp veggies like bell peppers and snap peas add color, texture, and nutrients to your meal.
Garlic Noodles: A luscious side dish that brings a comforting, flavorful punch, perfectly contrasting the Mongolian Beef.
Asian Slaw: A light, refreshing slaw with crispy cabbage and a zesty dressing balances the rich flavors beautifully.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup enhances the meal, providing umami flavors that harmonize well with the beef.
Brewed Green Tea: Refreshing and slightly grassy, this tea is a perfect companion to cleanse your palate.
Chilled Sake: For a more festive touch, serve chilled sake to elevate the dining experience and highlight rich flavors.
Mango Sticky Rice: As a sweet ending, this dessert contrasts with the savory beef, offering a delightful finish to your meal.
Coconut Sorbet: A scoop of this light dessert can cleanse your palate after the savory indulgence of Mongolian Beef.
Chocolate Spring Rolls: Creative and fun, these sweet treats can be a fantastic way to wrap up your meal with a hint of crunch.

By serving these sides, you can create an impressive and satisfying meal experience that everyone will cherish!

Expert Tips for P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef

Slice Judiciously: Always slice flank steak against the grain to ensure each piece is tender and delightful to chew.
Coat Evenly: Avoid clumping the cornstarch on the beef; a thorough even coat ensures a perfectly crispy texture when frying.
Batch Frying: Don’t overcrowd the skillet; frying in batches prevents steaming, helping your beef achieve that signature restaurant-quality crispiness.
Sauce Timing: Add the sauce once the beef is fully cooked; this preserves its flavor while preventing overcooking and keeps the beef juicy and tender.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar to your taste. For a natural sweetener, consider using honey in your sauce.

Craving P. F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef? Recipe FAQs

How should I select the best flank steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing flank steak, look for cuts that are bright red with minimal visible fat. The beef should feel firm to the touch without any dark spots or an off smell. By slicing against the grain, you’ll ensure the most tender bites, making the dish even more enjoyable!

What are the best storage methods for leftovers?
Very good question! Store your Mongolian Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you notice the sauce thickening, add a splash of water when reheating to bring it back to that luscious, clinging consistency. For optimal flavor and texture, always consume reheated leftovers promptly.

Can I freeze Mongolian Beef? What’s the best way to do so?
Certainly! To freeze your Mongolian Beef, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and then place it in an airtight freezer bag. This can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the beef overnight in the refrigerator, then gently warm it on the stovetop. This helps preserve that lovely crispy texture while avoiding sogginess.

What if my beef isn’t getting crispy while frying?
No worries! If your beef isn’t crisping up, it’s likely due to overcrowding in the pan. Make sure to cook in batches and leave ample space between the pieces so they fry steadily. Additionally, if the oil isn’t hot enough, the beef will steam instead of fry. Aim for shimmering oil over medium-high heat before adding the beef to achieve that perfect crispy exterior.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re serving this dish to someone with soy allergies, consider using coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative, which can provide a similar umami flavor. Always make sure to check the labels on sauces for hidden allergens. If making for pets, the dish should be free from ingredients like garlic, which can be harmful.