Slow-Cooked Sticky Orange Beef Bowls
January 3, 2026
An easy slow cooker dinner inspired by your favorite takeout orange beef!
If orange beef is one of your go-to takeout favorites, this slow cooker version is about to earn a regular spot in your dinner rotation. Everything simmers together until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens naturally into that sticky, citrusy glaze that clings to every bite. Serve it bowl-style with rice and broccoli for a comforting, flavorful dinner that fits easily into a busy week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold orange flavor with that sweet-savory balance
- Tender beef that stays juicy and spoonable
- A naturally thickened glaze without extra steps
- Takeout-inspired bowls that feel comforting and craveable
- Great for meal prep or casual family dinners
Ingredient Notes
- Beef stew meat: This cut becomes incredibly tender in the slow cooker and holds onto the glaze beautifully.
- Orange sauce: Panda Express Orange Sauce brings that recognizable citrus flavor without needing multiple sauces or zesting.
- Soy sauce: Adds depth and keeps the sweetness balanced.
- Brown sugar: Helps the sauce caramelize and cling to the beef.
- Ginger: A small amount adds warmth without overpowering the citrus.
Quick Prep Notes
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes. Chuck roast cut into chunks works just as well and becomes extra tender.
Do I need to thicken the sauce separately?
No. Shredding a small portion of the beef directly in the slow cooker thickens the sauce naturally.
Is this very sweet?
It’s balanced. The soy sauce and ginger keep the orange flavor from being overly sugary.
Slow-Cooked Sticky Orange Beef Bowls
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- ¾ cup Panda Express Orange Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Steamed broccoli, for serving
Instructions
- Add the beef to the crockpot, then pour in the orange sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
- Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
- Once cooked, use a fork to lightly shred a few pieces of beef directly in the pot, leaving the rest chunky. This naturally thickens the sauce and gives it that sticky, glossy texture without extra steps.
- If you want an even deeper glaze, crack the lid slightly and cook on HIGH for 10–15 more minutes, letting the sauce tighten up just a bit.
- Spoon the citrus-glazed beef over warm rice and finish with steamed broccoli for balance.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It reheats beautifully and the flavor deepens after sitting overnight.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
What can I serve besides rice?
It’s great over noodles, cauliflower rice, or even tucked into lettuce cups.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
You can add bell peppers or snap peas during the last 30 minutes so they stay crisp.
Is this spicy?
No, but you can add red pepper flakes or chili crisp if you want heat.
Sprinkle of Fun
This is a great recipe for a slow, easy weekend night. Big bowls of sticky orange beef, a game on the table, and a comfort show playing in the background is all you need.
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