Easy Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Introduction and Quick Summary

Have you ever craved a dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor? Picture this: tender pieces of beef simmered slowly until they melt in your mouth, paired with vibrant green broccoli—all enveloped in a savory sauce that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This is what you get with Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli, a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings alike.

As the gentle heat of the slow cooker transforms the ingredients into a delightful meal, you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating each bite. Whether you’re serving it over fluffy rice or enjoying it on its own, this dish offers comfort and satisfaction. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep time required, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work.
• Flavorful Meal: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a rich flavor profile that enhances both the beef and broccoli.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and nutritious vegetables, this dish is a wholesome choice for any dinner.
• Versatile Serving: Serve it over rice for a hearty meal or enjoy it as part of a low-carb diet by pairing it with cauliflower rice.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Beef Flank Steak: Choose high-quality flank steak for optimal tenderness; slice it against the grain for best results.
• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Use bright green florets; they should be firm to the touch for maximum crunchiness when cooked.
• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish flavorful without being too salty.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic adds depth to the flavor; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
• Ginger Root: Freshly grated ginger gives an aromatic kick; dried ginger can be used in a pinch but fresh is preferred.

For the Sauce:

• Brown Sugar: This ingredient balances the saltiness of the soy sauce; adjust according to your sweet preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by slicing the flank steak into thin strips against the grain. This will ensure tenderness after cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional sesame oil. Stir well until smooth.

Step 3: Layer in Slow Cooker

Place sliced beef into the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour sauce over the beef evenly to coat all pieces.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker on low heat and cook for about six hours or on high heat for three hours until the beef is tender.

Step 5: Add Broccoli

In the last thirty minutes of cooking time, add fresh broccoli florets on top of the beef. Cover again to steam them perfectly.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once finished cooking, transfer everything onto plates or serve directly from the slow cooker. Drizzle any remaining sauce over top if desired.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Cut Against Grain: Always slice meat against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Add Cornstarch Slurry: For a thicker sauce texture at serving time, mix cornstarch with water before adding it during cooking.
• Stir Occasionally: If possible, gently stir halfway through cooking to distribute flavors evenly.

Mistakes to avoid

• Using Tough Cuts of Meat: When preparing Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli, using tough cuts of meat can lead to chewy and unpleasant results. Opt for cuts like flank steak or sirloin, which are more tender when slow-cooked. This choice allows the meat to absorb flavors from the sauce while becoming fork-tender as it cooks for hours in the slow cooker.
• Overcooking the Broccoli: One common mistake is adding broccoli too early in the cooking process. Broccoli cooks quickly, and overcooking can result in mushy vegetables that lose their vibrant color and nutrients. Add the broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure it remains crisp and flavorful in your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli dish.
• Skipping Marination: Failing to marinate the beef before cooking can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. A simple marinade with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger enhances the beef’s taste significantly. Allowing the meat to marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight will yield a more flavorful Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli that your family will love.

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed White Rice: The fluffy texture of steamed white rice complements the rich flavors of beef and broccoli. It absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying meal.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve this dish over cauliflower rice. It’s light yet filling, making it perfect for those watching their carbohydrate intake while still enjoying great flavor.
• Noodles: Pair your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli with noodles such as lo mein or udon. The noodles absorb the sauce well, adding another layer of texture to each bite.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli in Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?

Using frozen broccoli in your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is possible, but fresh broccoli yields the best results. Frozen broccoli can become mushy when cooked for long periods. If you prefer using frozen, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to maintain some crunch while still allowing it to absorb flavor.

What type of beef should I use for Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?

For this recipe, flank steak or sirloin are excellent choices for Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli. These cuts are tender yet flavorful, making them ideal for slow cooking. Avoid tougher cuts like chuck roast, as they may not provide the desired tenderness after long cooking times.

Can I make Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli ahead of time?

Absolutely. Preparing Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli ahead of time is convenient. You can assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Just remember to cook it on your preferred setting when you’re ready to enjoy a delicious dinner.

How do I store leftovers from Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?

To store leftovers from your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through before serving again.

Conclusion for Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is not only easy to prepare but also delivers incredible taste that pleases everyone at your table. By using quality beef cuts like flank steak or sirloin, you ensure tenderness with each bite. Pairing this dish with steamed rice or noodles enhances its flavor profile, making every meal memorable. Whether enjoyed fresh or as leftovers, this recipe proves versatile enough for any occasion. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a comforting meal that everyone will love.

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Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a mouthwatering dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine to your dinner table with minimal effort. Imagine tender strips of beef slowly simmered in a savory sauce, paired with fresh broccoli florets that retain their crispness. This easy recipe allows you to set it and forget it while your slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Serve it over fluffy rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner that brings everyone together.

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Ingredients

• Flank steak
• Fresh broccoli florets
• Low-sodium soy sauce
• Garlic cloves
• Ginger root
• Brown sugar

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Instructions

1. Slice flank steak into thin strips against the grain for optimal tenderness.
2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
3. Layer the sliced beef in the slow cooker and pour the sauce evenly over it.
4. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the beef is tender.
5. Add fresh broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking to steam perfectly.
6. Serve hot with any remaining sauce drizzled on top.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg