Beef and broccoli is a classic dish, loved for its rich, savory flavors and tender texture. When combined with the ease and convenience of a slow cooker, it becomes a perfect weeknight meal. The slow cooking process tenderizes the beef, infuses the flavors of the sauce into every bite, and brings out the natural sweetness of the broccoli. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also ideal for busy families who want a hearty meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli recipe that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients
Before we get started, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions
1. Preparing the Beef
The first step in this recipe is to prepare the beef. Select a tender cut, such as beef sirloin or flank steak, for the best results. The key is to slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure the meat stays tender when cooked.
Once sliced, add the beef to your slow cooker. To add more flavor to the beef, season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. However, keep in mind that the soy sauce in the marinade will already provide plenty of seasoning.
2. Creating the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the following ingredients: soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, sesame oil, garlic, and grated ginger. This combination of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy elements will create a rich sauce that coats the beef and broccoli during the cooking process. The brown sugar will help caramelize the beef, making it incredibly tender, while the soy sauce and sesame oil will infuse the dish with deep, umami flavors.
Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker, ensuring all the beef slices are evenly coated. Give it a quick stir to evenly distribute the sauce.
3. Cooking the Beef
Cover the slow cooker and cook the beef on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. During this time, the beef will absorb all the flavors from the sauce, becoming tender and melt-in-your-mouth. The slow cooker will work its magic, allowing the beef to simmer in the savory sauce without drying out.
4. Preparing the Broccoli
Once the beef is fully cooked and tender, it’s time to add the broccoli. If you’re using fresh broccoli, chop it into florets. Frozen broccoli works just as well if you don’t have fresh on hand. Add the broccoli florets directly to the slow cooker, stirring them into the beef and sauce mixture.
If you’re looking to add some heat, now is the time to sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. This step is optional but highly recommended for those who enjoy a little kick to their meals.
5. Cooking the Broccoli
Cover the slow cooker and cook the broccoli on high heat for an additional 30 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender yet still vibrant and green. The broccoli will absorb the flavors of the sauce, becoming tender yet not overcooked.
6. Optional Thickening Step
If you prefer a thicker sauce, this is where the cornstarch comes in. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker about 20 minutes before serving. The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce, creating a silky, glossy finish that clings to the beef and broccoli.
7. Serve the Dish
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to serve your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli. Serve it hot over a bed of steamed white or brown rice. The rice will absorb the savory sauce, creating a perfect base for the beef and broccoli. You can garnish the dish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of sesame oil for an added layer of flavor.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Days
The slow cooker is a lifesaver when you need a flavorful, home-cooked meal without the fuss. With this Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli recipe, you can prep everything in the morning, let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day, and come home to a hot, delicious meal.
The beauty of slow cooking is that it allows the flavors to develop gradually, resulting in a rich, deeply satisfying dish. The beef turns incredibly tender, and the broccoli is perfectly cooked without being mushy. Plus, the sauce becomes thick and luscious, creating a flavorful coating for both the beef and the broccoli.
Tips and Variations
- Meat Choice: While flank steak or sirloin works well in this dish, you can also use stew meat or chuck roast. These cuts become tender when slow-cooked and absorb the flavor of the sauce beautifully.
- Vegetable Add-ins: If you like more vegetables in your beef and broccoli, consider adding sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Spice Level: For those who enjoy spicier food, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha sauce for some heat.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a must-try dish that’s not only packed with flavor but also easy to prepare. The combination of tender beef, perfectly cooked broccoli, and a savory sauce makes it a meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish to meal prep for the week, as it reheats beautifully.
With minimal hands-on time and maximum flavor, this slow cooker recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing for a weekend family meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli with a steaming bowl of rice, and don’t forget to relish the deep, savory flavors in every bite!