Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

There is something incredibly satisfying about coming home to the aroma of a warm, slow-cooked meal. Beef and broccoli, a staple of Chinese-American cuisine, is the perfect dish to make at home because it combines tender, flavorful beef with fresh, crisp broccoli in a rich, savory sauce. The best part? This recipe is made in a slow cooker, which means minimal effort for maximum flavor.

This recipe is ideal for beginners because it requires just a few simple ingredients, no fancy techniques, and the slow cooker does all the hard work. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or looking for a no-fuss dinner, this slow cooker beef and broccoli recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Why This Recipe Is Special

• Effortless Cooking – Just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the work.
• Restaurant-Quality Flavor – The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar creates a rich, savory sauce that coats the beef beautifully.
• Healthier Than Takeout – No added preservatives or excessive oil, and you can control the sodium and sugar levels.
• Great for Meal Prep – This dish stores and reheats well, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients and Preparation

To make this slow cooker beef and broccoli, you will need a few key ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

• Beef chuck roast – A tender cut that becomes melt-in-your-mouth soft when slow-cooked. You can also use flank steak or sirloin if preferred.
• Beef broth – Adds depth of flavor and keeps the meat juicy. Low-sodium broth is a good choice for a healthier option.
• Soy sauce – Provides the umami-rich, slightly salty flavor that is key in this dish. Use low-sodium soy sauce if watching your salt intake.
• Brown sugar – A touch of sweetness balances the salty and savory flavors. Dark brown sugar adds a richer caramelized taste.
• Sesame oil – Gives the dish its signature nutty aroma and enhances the overall flavor.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic depth.
• Cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce, creating that classic glossy texture.
• Broccoli florets – Adds freshness and a bit of crunch to the dish. You can use frozen or fresh broccoli.
• White or brown rice – The perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredient Substitutes:

• Swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
• Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
• If you don’t have beef broth, vegetable broth or water with a dash of Worcestershire sauce can work as a substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. This will be your flavorful sauce.

Step 2: Place the thinly sliced beef in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it. Stir well to coat the beef evenly.

Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork. Be careful not to overcook, as the beef may become too soft.

Step 4: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of the sauce from the slow cooker in a small bowl. Stir well to create a slurry, then pour it back into the slow cooker. This will help thicken the sauce.

Step 5: Add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Cover and let cook for another 30 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still slightly crisp.

Step 6: Serve the beef and broccoli over steamed white or brown rice, and enjoy!

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Avoid Overcooking the Broccoli – Adding the broccoli too early can make it mushy. Always add it in the last 30 minutes.
• Thicker Sauce? – If you prefer a thicker sauce, use an additional tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water before adding it in.
• Cut Beef Against the Grain – This makes the meat more tender and prevents it from becoming too chewy.
• Short on Time? – You can use pre-cut beef stir-fry strips from the grocery store to save time.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Rice or Noodles – White rice, brown rice, or even quinoa works well with this dish. You can also serve it over lo mein or rice noodles for variety.
• Add Extra Veggies – Try bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added crunch and color.
• Garnish for Extra Flavor – Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving.

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Conclusion

This slow cooker beef and broccoli recipe is the perfect meal for anyone looking for an easy, flavorful, and beginner-friendly dish. With minimal prep and a set-it-and-forget-it cooking process, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Give it a try, and let us know in the comments how it turned out for you!

FAQ About Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

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