Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

There’s something deeply satisfying about tender, slow-cooked beef. This Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli delivers just that. The succulent meat practically melts in your mouth. It’s coated in a rich, savory sauce. This dish truly warms the soul after a long day.

I often make this for busy weeknights. It’s a real lifesaver when time is short. My family absolutely devours it. Plus, it reheats beautifully for lunches the next day, making meal prep a breeze.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a true weeknight wonder! Here’s why it’s become a staple in my kitchen:

• Effortless Ease: Prep takes minutes!
• Incredible Flavor: Savory, sweet, and oh-so-good.
• Perfect for Busy Nights: Set it and forget it.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters love this Asian-inspired classic.

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli Ingredients

Gathering the ingredients for this Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is like assembling a dream team of pantry staples.

The magic happens when these simple items combine. They transform into a truly comforting meal.

• Flank Steak: This cut becomes wonderfully tender. It’s perfect for slow cooking. Thin slicing helps it cook evenly.
• Beef Broth: It forms the base of our savory sauce. This adds rich flavor depth.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce: This brings that classic umami taste. It’s essential for the Asian-inspired profile.
• Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the saltiness. It also helps create a lovely glaze.
• Sesame Oil: This adds a toasty, nutty aroma. It’s a small ingredient with a big impact.
• Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a pungent kick. It’s fundamental to the flavor.
• Red Chili Flakes (Optional): For those who like a bit of heat. These add a gentle warmth to the dish.
• Broccoli Florets: This is our vibrant green star. It offers a fresh crunch and healthy goodness.
• Cornstarch and Cold Water: These create a slurry. It’s used to thicken the delicious sauce beautifully.

Substitutions and Tips

Feel free to play with this recipe! If flank steak isn’t available, chuck roast or sirloin can work. Just slice them thinly against the grain. You can easily boost the flavor by adding a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger along with the garlic. For an extra spicy kick, add more red chili flakes! Don’t have sesame oil? A little extra olive oil will do, though it won’t have the same nutty notes. When it comes to broccoli, fresh is best, but frozen florets work in a pinch.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Let’s dive into making this fantastic Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli. It’s incredibly straightforward. You’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time. Follow these simple steps.

Prepare the Slow Cooker

First, give your slow cooker a quick grease. This stops the beef from sticking. It makes cleanup a breeze later.

Combine and Cook the Beef

Next, add the thinly sliced flank steak to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and soy sauce. Sprinkle in the brown sugar and sesame oil. Toss in the minced garlic. Add the red chili flakes now if you want some heat. Secure the lid tightly. Set your slow cooker. Cook on high for 2-3 hours. Or, choose low for 4-5 hours. This slow cooking method makes the beef incredibly tender.

Thicken the Sauce

Just before serving time, uncover your slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water. This makes a thickening slurry. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker. Stir it gently. The sauce will start to thicken. Cover it again. Let it cook for another 20-25 minutes. This step creates that yummy, glossy sauce.

Cook the Broccoli

Now, let’s get the broccoli ready while the sauce thickens. Place your broccoli florets in a large microwave-safe container. Add about a half-inch of water. Put the lid on. Leave it slightly ajar to let steam escape. Microwave on high for 3 minutes. The broccoli will be perfectly tender-crisp. Drain any excess water.

Combine and Serve

Stir the cooked broccoli directly into the slow cooker with the beef and sauce. Give everything a final, gentle stir. Your delicious Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is ready to serve! Dish it up warm. It’s wonderful served over rice.

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How to Store Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Leftover Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a welcome sight. This dish keeps well in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container. It should last for about 3 to 4 days. This makes it a fantastic candidate for meal prepping. You can easily portion it out for lunches. Or, reheat it for a quick dinner later in the week. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep its best quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips for Success

• Slice beef thinly. This helps it cook quickly.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry. It creates a luscious sauce.
• Adjust chili flakes to your spice preference.
• Broccoli cooks fast. Avoid overcooking it.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Slow Cooker: Your trusty kitchen workhorse. A 6-quart model is ideal.
• Knife: For slicing the flank steak thinly. Ensure it’s sharp!
• Cutting Board: A stable surface for prep work.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the cornstarch slurry.
• Whisk: To smoothly combine cornstarch and water.
• Microwave-Safe Container: For steaming the broccoli.

Serving Suggestions

This wonderful Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is fantastic on its own. It really shines with a few simple additions. Consider serving it over fluffy white or brown rice. Steamed or fried rice also makes a lovely base. A side of spring rolls complements the flavors beautifully. A crisp, fresh green salad adds a nice contrast. For a drink, a light lager or a crisp white wine works well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef for this Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?

Absolutely! While flank steak is my go-to, you can use chuck roast or sirloin. Just make sure to slice it thinly across the grain for maximum tenderness. These alternative cuts also cook up beautifully in the slow cooker, absorbing all those delicious flavors.

How can I make the broccoli more tender in this Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?

For extra tender broccoli, you can add it to the slow cooker during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, if you prefer it very soft, you can steam it a bit longer in the microwave or add it earlier in the cooking process. Just keep an eye on it to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Can I prepare this Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli ahead of time?

You sure can! You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate. Then, just start it in the morning. The cooked beef and sauce can also be made ahead and reheated gently. Add the broccoli just before serving for the best texture.

What are some ways to add more flavor to this Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?

You can easily boost the flavor by adding a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger with the garlic. A splash of rice vinegar in the final minutes adds a nice tang. Also, consider garnishing with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions just before serving for an extra layer of taste and texture.