Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli is a quick and easy dinner that delivers tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful garlic soy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to enjoy a classic takeout favorite at home with minimal effort. The slow cooker ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while the broccoli stays crisp-tender.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless beef chuck roast, cut into ¼-inch strips
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ⅓ cup dark brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 (12-ounce) bag frozen broccoli florets (about 3 cups)

Instructions

• Whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, dark brown sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic in a medium bowl to make the sauce.
• Place the beef strips in a 4-7-quart slow cooker and pour the sauce over, tossing to coat the meat evenly.
• Cook on LOW for 2.5-3.5 hours.
• About 1 hour before the end of cooking, remove ¼ cup of the sauce and whisk with cornstarch in a small bowl, then stir back into the slow cooker.
• In the final 30 minutes, add the frozen broccoli florets and stir to combine. Cover and cook until broccoli is crisp-tender.
• Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired and serve with white rice.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli hot over steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. It can also be served with noodles for a hearty meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or beef broth if the sauce has thickened. This dish can also be frozen in portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations

1. Spicy Beef & Broccoli – Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
2. Honey Garlic Beef & Broccoli – Replace dark brown sugar with honey for a sweeter sauce.
3. Ginger Beef & Broccoli – Add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger to the sauce for extra flavor.
4. Low-Sodium Version – Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce additional salt.
5. Gluten-Free Option – Substitute soy sauce with tamari to make it gluten-free.
6. Vegetable Mix – Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots with the broccoli for a more colorful dish.
7. Stovetop Version – Cook beef and broccoli in a skillet for a faster meal instead of using the slow cooker.
8. Sesame Beef & Broccoli – Toast sesame seeds before sprinkling on top for added texture and flavor.
9. Meal Prep Friendly – Double the recipe and store in meal prep containers for the week.
10. Brown Rice or Quinoa Base – Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a fiber-rich option.
11. Teriyaki Style – Add 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce to the sauce mixture for a slightly different flavor.
12. Beef Tips – Use pre-cut beef tips instead of chuck roast for easier preparation.
13. Cheesy Beef & Broccoli – Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top before serving for a fusion twist.
14. Broccoli Slaw Addition – Mix shredded broccoli stems or cabbage for extra crunch.
15. Mushroom Addition – Add sliced mushrooms during the final 30 minutes for an earthy flavor enhancement.

FAQs

1. Can I use other cuts of beef? Yes, sirloin or ribeye strips work well too.
2. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen? Yes, add fresh broccoli in the last 15-20 minutes to avoid overcooking.
3. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble in the slow cooker and refrigerate overnight, then cook the next day.
4. How do I prevent the beef from getting tough? Slice against the grain and cook on low heat.
5. Can I double this recipe? Yes, just use a larger slow cooker and adjust cooking time if necessary.
6. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
7. Can I make this in an Instant Pot? Yes, sauté the beef first and cook under high pressure for 15-20 minutes.
8. How thick should the sauce be? It should coat the beef but remain pourable; adjust cornstarch as needed.
9. Can I omit the brown sugar? Yes, but the sauce will be less sweet and caramelized.
10. What is the best way to reheat this dish? Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

This Slow Cooker Beef & Broccoli recipe makes a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. With tender beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich garlic soy sauce, it’s a homemade version of a takeout favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish pairs beautifully with rice and keeps well for leftovers.

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