Make easy Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli! This simple recipe features tender beef and broccoli in a savory-sweet sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish with minimal effort. You’ll love how the flavors meld together, making it a family favorite on any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a mouthwatering sauce that complements the beef perfectly.
Healthy Option: Packed with broccoli, this meal offers a nutritious balance of protein and vegetables.
Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete dinner that suits any palate.
Budget-Friendly: Use affordable cuts of beef and fresh ingredients to keep costs low.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essentials for an easy experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: This appliance allows for hands-free cooking, ensuring your meal is perfectly tender without constant attention.
Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides safety and stability when slicing ingredients.
Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes quick work of slicing beef and chopping vegetables, saving you time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Make easy Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli! This simple recipe features tender beef and broccoli in a savory-sweet sauce.

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)

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping all your ingredients so that you can easily add them to the slow cooker.

Thinly slice the beef flank steak or cube the beef chuck as desired.
Mince the garlic cloves and grate the ginger.
Cut the broccoli into florets if not pre-packaged.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, combine all ingredients to create a flavorful base.

Add the sliced beef to the slow cooker.
Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook

Set your slow cooker to low heat and let it work its magic.

Cover and cook for about 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high until the beef is tender.

Step 4: Thicken Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, follow these steps during the last hour of cooking.

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry.
Stir this mixture into the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.

Step 5: Add Broccoli

During the final hour of cooking, it’s time to add some green!

Add broccoli florets to the slow cooker about an hour before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked, serve your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli hot over rice.

Garnish with sesame seeds before serving for an extra touch of flavor.
Enjoy your meal with family or friends!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Serving Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its savory flavors.

Serve it over Rice

White rice: A classic choice that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Brown rice: Adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Quinoa: A protein-packed alternative for a healthier option.

Garnish with Sesame Seeds

Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle these on top for added crunch and a nutty taste.
Chopped green onions: Freshens up the dish and adds a pop of color.

Pair with Noodles

Rice noodles: Light and delicate, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Lo mein: Chewy noodles that complement the beef and broccoli well.

Wrap it Up

Lettuce wraps: Create fresh wraps using lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
Tortillas: Serve in soft tortillas for a delicious twist on tacos.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

To ensure your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

Slice beef thinly: Thin slices cook evenly and absorb more flavor from the sauce.
Use fresh broccoli: Fresh florets retain their crunch better than frozen ones when cooked slowly.
Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving; feel free to add more soy sauce or sugar if needed.
Thicken the sauce: For a richer texture, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the slow cooker.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli can enhance the meal. Here are some great options to consider.

Steamed Vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies like carrots or snap peas add nutrition and balance to your plate.
Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice can be an excellent companion, making your meal even heartier.
Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender beef.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the dish.
Miso Soup: Warm miso soup can start your meal on a comforting note, enhancing traditional flavors.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This quick side is easy to prepare and offers a crunchy texture alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Not slicing beef correctly: Thick slices of beef can become tough. Always thinly slice your beef flank steak for tenderness.
Skipping the marinade: Marinating your beef enhances flavor. Take time to let it soak in the sauce before cooking.
Overcooking broccoli: Adding broccoli too early can make it mushy. Add it during the last hour of cooking for a tender-crisp texture.
Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every soy sauce brand is different. Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed for optimal flavor.
Using low-quality ingredients: The quality of your soy sauce and beef matters. Opt for good-quality ingredients for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in intervals, stirring as needed.
Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions commonly asked about Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli.

Can I use other cuts of beef for Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?

Yes, you can use cuts like chuck roast or brisket. These cuts benefit from slow cooking, becoming tender over time.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Adjust the sauce by adding more garlic or using different seasonings to suit your taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a wonderful meal that combines convenience with delicious flavors. It’s versatile enough to allow for many customizations based on your preferences. Give it a try; you might discover a new favorite!

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Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish that effortlessly brings the flavors of tender beef and vibrant broccoli together in a savory-sweet sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to set it and forget it while the slow cooker works its magic. With minimal preparation, you’ll soon be enjoying a hearty meal that can easily satisfy the entire family. Whether served over rice or noodles, this dish is both comforting and nutritious, making it a favorite at any gathering. The best part? It’s budget-friendly and allows for easy customization based on your preferences!

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs beef flank steak (or beef chuck, cut into cubes)
4 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup beef broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, grated
Cooked rice for serving
Sesame seeds for garnish

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Instructions

Thinly slice the beef or cube it if using chuck.
Mince garlic and grate ginger.
In the slow cooker, combine beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, broth, garlic, and ginger; stir to coat.
Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until tender.
Add broccoli during the last hour of cooking.
Serve over rice and garnish with sesame seeds.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Main
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Asian