When it comes to comfort food, there’s something special about a steaming bowl of beef broccoli. It’s hearty, it’s savory, and it doesn’t take much to make it.
Pair this dish with steamed white jasmine rice, and you’ve got a meal that warms the soul. Now, let’s dive into this slow cooker sensation that has captured the hearts of many.
What is Slow Cooker Beef Broccoli?
Slow cooker beef broccoli is a delightful dish featuring thinly sliced beef, tender broccoli, and a savory sauce, all simmered together for hours in a slow cooker. The beauty of this dish is that each ingredient melds together, creating a robust flavor that’s simply irresistible.
As a registered dietitian and passionate home cook, I take pride in sharing recipes that are not only delicious but also nutritious. Slow cooker beef broccoli is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal without skimping on taste.
Why This Recipe Works?
Effortless Preparation:
One of the biggest advantages of this dish is how simple it is to prepare. Everything goes into the slow cooker, and after a few hours, it’s ready to serve. This recipe frees up your time for other activities while the meal cooks itself.
Flavor Infusion:
Using a slow cooker allows for flavors to intensify. The beef absorbs the rich concoction of soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil, resulting in a tender, flavorful bite in every piece. You’ll be amazed at how much depth flavors gain after hours of slow cooking.
Versatile Ingredients:
I appreciate how adaptable this recipe is. You can customize the vegetables or substitute the beef for chicken or tofu. This dish aligns with various dietary preferences, making it suitable for different gatherings and guests.
Healthy and Satisfying:
Packed with protein from beef and fiber from broccoli, this meal is both filling and nutritious. It’s a great option for anyone looking to eat well without sacrificing taste. Plus, the slow cooking method allows for the retention of nutrients, especially if you’re using fresh veggies.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
- Steamed white jasmine rice, for serving
- 1 1/2 lb. thinly sliced flank steak or top round (approximately 1/4-inch-thick strips)
- 1/2 cup tamari or soy sauce
- 1/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp. dark toasted sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp. rice wine vinegar
- 1 tsp. freshly grated ginger root
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 1 Tbsp. arrowroot powder or cornstarch
- 1 12-ounce bag of broccoli florets, steamed or lightly blanched
- 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 Tbsp honey
- Sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and/or a drizzle of sriracha for garnish
How To Make This Slow Cooker Beef Broccoli
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all the ingredients. Slice the beef thinly against the grain. This will help the meat remain tender while cooking. Chop the ginger and garlic finely.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together tamari (or soy sauce), brown sugar, dark sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, black pepper, and honey. This sauce acts as a flavor bomb and sets the stage for the meat.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place the sliced beef in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the beef, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Sprinkle the broccoli florets on top. If desired, add the crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Step 4: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 4-6 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the beef will be.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Once the beef is tender, mix the arrowroot powder or cornstarch with a bit of water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker and allow it to cook for another 30 minutes on high to thicken the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Once done, serve the beef and broccoli over a bed of steaming jasmine rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. For those who enjoy heat, drizzle a little sriracha on top.
Tips & Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor. If you can, avoid using pre-minced versions.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding too much heat or sweetness. You can easily customize it according to your preference.
- Slice Against the Grain: This technique helps keep the beef tender and easier to chew.
- Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to mix in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to brighten up the dish.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is ideal for meal prep. Make a larger batch, portion it out, and enjoy it throughout the week.
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or return it to the slow cooker on low until warmed through.
What Sides Would Complement Slow Cooker Beef Broccoli?
Jasmine Rice: This dish shines when served on a bed of jasmine rice. The subtle flavor and fluffy texture absorb the savory sauce beautifully.
Steamed Dumplings: These delightful, bite-sized morsels can be the perfect addition. They add a fun element to the meal and balance the textures.
Simple Cucumber Salad: The refreshing crunch of cucumber salad can cut through the richness of the beef broccoli. Toss sliced cucumbers with a light soy sauce dressing for a crisp side.
Conclusion
Slow cooker beef broccoli is a comforting, versatile, and simple dish that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends. With flavor-packed ingredients, a straightforward cooking process, and the satisfaction that comes with home-cooked meals, it checks all the boxes.
The next time you’re looking for a meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, give this recipe a try. Your family—and your taste buds—will surely appreciate it. Bon appétit!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
- Beef Spare Ribs Slow Cooker Copycat Recipe
- How To Make Slow Cooker Beef Tips
- Best Slow Cooker Swedish Meatball Recipe
Slow Cooker Beef Broccoli Recipe – Easy Family Meal
Description
I’ve always loved meals that allow me to throw everything into one pot, set it, and forget it. That’s where my affinity for slow cookers began. I’ll admit, this recipe for slow cooker beef broccoli has become one of my go-to favorites.
It’s rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. You'll find yourself wanting to make it again and again.
Imagine coming home after a long day, to the comforting smell of tender beef and vibrant green broccoli wafting through your house. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
-
Begin by gathering all the ingredients. Slice the beef thinly against the grain. This will help the meat remain tender while cooking. Chop the ginger and garlic finely.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
-
In a bowl, mix together tamari (or soy sauce), brown sugar, dark sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, black pepper, and honey. This sauce acts as a flavor bomb and sets the stage for the meat.
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
-
Place the sliced beef in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the beef, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Sprinkle the broccoli florets on top. If desired, add the crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Step 4: Cook
-
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 4-6 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the beef will be.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
-
Once the beef is tender, mix the arrowroot powder or cornstarch with a bit of water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker and allow it to cook for another 30 minutes on high to thicken the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
-
Once done, serve the beef and broccoli over a bed of steaming jasmine rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. For those who enjoy heat, drizzle a little sriracha on top.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 322kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13.3g21%
- Saturated Fat 3.2g16%
- Trans Fat 0.2g
- Cholesterol 101mg34%
- Sodium 430mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 12g4%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 37g74%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor. If you can, avoid using pre-minced versions.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding too much heat or sweetness. You can easily customize it according to your preference.
- Slice Against the Grain: This technique helps keep the beef tender and easier to chew.
- Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to mix in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to brighten up the dish.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is ideal for meal prep. Make a larger batch, portion it out, and enjoy it throughout the week.
