Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a delicious and easy recipe that brings a taste of Asian cuisine right into your kitchen. With the tender beef and fresh broccoli coated in a sweet and savory sauce, this dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. You can let the slow cooker do all the work while you spend time doing other things.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s simple to prepare. You can throw the ingredients together in the morning and come home to a hot meal. Second, it’s packed with flavor, combining the rich taste of beef with fresh broccoli in a tasty sauce. Finally, it’s a healthier alternative to takeout, allowing you to control what goes into your meal.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
Making Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is easy. Just follow these steps to create this delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef flank steak, thinly sliced (Strongly consider substituting 1.5 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes for better results with slow cooking)
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- (Implied: 1-2 tbsp cold water for cornstarch slurry if using)
Directions:
- Combine Beef and Sauce in Slow Cooker: Place the sliced beef in the slow cooker. In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, garlic, and ginger. Pour this sauce over the beef.
- Cook the Beef: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
- Add Broccoli and Thicken Sauce (Optional): If you’d like to thicken the sauce, mix the cornstarch with some cold water to make a slurry. About 30 minutes before cooking is done, add the broccoli and the cornstarch slurry to the slow cooker.
- Finish Cooking: Let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the beef and broccoli over rice. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a nice touch.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
Serve this dish hot over a bed of cooked rice to soak up all the savory sauce. You can add additional garnishes such as sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or a touch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
How to Store Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat using a microwave or stovetop.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
- Choose a good cut of beef: Flank steak and chuck roast are both great options.
- If you prefer a stronger sauce, feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce to your liking.
- Always check the doneness of the beef; it should be tender enough to break apart with a fork.
- For a bit of freshness, add some peanuts or cashews before serving.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. You can also switch the meat for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it during the last hour of cooking to prevent it from getting mushy.
2. How do I know when the beef is cooked?
The beef is done when it is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model.
3. Is it necessary to thicken the sauce?
No, thickening the sauce is optional. If you prefer a thinner sauce, feel free to skip the cornstarch step.
Enjoy your slow cooker beef and broccoli! This dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
