Beef and broccoli. Just imagine the tender beef, perfectly cooked to melt in your mouth, surrounded by vibrant green broccoli that adds not just a pop of color but also a satisfying crunch. As you take a bite, the rich umami flavors dance on your palate, while the aroma wafts through your kitchen, making you feel like a chef in a five-star restaurant. perfect grilled cheese pairing This slow cooker beef and broccoli is a comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at dinner parties.
I remember the first time I made this dish; I had just moved into my first apartment and was eager to show off my culinary skills. Let’s just say that the smoke alarm got more action than I did that night! But once I nailed this recipe, it became my go-to for any occasion. Now, whenever I serve it up, friends and family can’t help but smile — it’s like a warm hug in bowl form! Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this slow cooker beef and broccoli will steal the show every time. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This slow cooker beef and broccoli is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy tender meat without standing over the stove.
- The flavor profile is a delightful blend of savory soy sauce and fresh ginger that transports your taste buds straight to flavor town.
- Visually, the dish is striking with its bright green broccoli against succulent beef pieces, making it an impressive centerpiece for any table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or even as a filling for wraps!
Ingredients for slow cooker beef and broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Chuck Roast: Go for well-marbled cuts; they break down beautifully in the slow cooker.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose vibrant green florets; they add both nutrition and crunch.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce works best to balance flavors without overwhelming saltiness.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives an aromatic punch; don’t skimp on this!
- Ginger: Fresh ginger enhances flavors with its zesty kick; use finely grated for better distribution.
- Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness to balance out the savory components; light or dark will work.
- Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil at the end infuses a nutty aroma that elevates the dish.
For the Sauce:
- Cornstarch: This thickener helps create that perfect glossy sauce; mix it with water before adding it in.
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 Your Beef
Start by slicing your beef chuck roast into thin strips against the grain. This ensures tenderness. Place them into your slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar, and sesame oil until well combined. Pour this heavenly mixture over your beef.
Step 3: Slow Cook Magic
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low heat for about six hours or high heat for about three hours. Go binge-watch your favorite show during this time!
Step 4: Broccoli Time
About thirty minutes before serving, add those fresh broccoli florets right into the slow cooker. This allows them to steam but still retain their bright color.
Step 5: Thicken It Up
To thicken your sauce before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir it into the slow cooker during the final minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer everything onto plates or bowls over rice or noodles of your choice. Drizzle with any leftover sauce from the slow cooker for that finishing touch!
This slow cooker beef and broccoli will leave you feeling like a culinary superstar while keeping things wonderfully simple — because who has time for complicated recipes? Enjoy every savory bite!
You Must Know
- This slow cooker beef and broccoli dish offers more than just flavor; it makes dinner time a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on your preference.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for busy weeknights but versatile enough for special occasions.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the beef in a hot skillet to seal in those delicious juices, then toss it into the slow cooker with your sauce and veggies. As everything simmers, cook some rice or noodles to soak up all that glorious goodness.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping out broccoli for snap peas or bell peppers if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also experiment with seasonings like ginger or garlic powder for an extra flavor kick. Want it spicy? Add some red pepper flakes!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover slow cooker beef and broccoli in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, use low heat in a skillet or microwave to keep the beef tender and the broccoli vibrant.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always choose flank or sirloin steak for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the overall taste significantly.
- Don’t skip the marinating step; it’s essential for deep flavor infusion!
Sometimes I whip up this slow cooker beef and broccoli when friends come over, and their eyes light up with joy as they dig in—it’s like cooking magic!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for slow cooker beef and broccoli?
To prepare slow cooker beef and broccoli, you will need several key ingredients. Start with 1 to 2 pounds of flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain. For the sauce, gather soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar to create a flavorful base. You will also need fresh broccoli florets. Optionally, add cornstarch for thickening and sesame oil for added richness. Finally, serve it over rice or noodles to complete the meal. These ingredients work together to create a delicious dish that is perfect for busy weeknights.
How long does it take to cook slow cooker beef and broccoli?
Cooking slow cooker beef and broccoli typically takes about 5 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the meat to become tender while absorbing all the flavors from the sauce. Be sure to check the beef towards the end of your cooking time; it should be fork-tender but not overcooked. Adding broccoli in the last half hour ensures it remains vibrant and crisp while soaking up those rich flavors. Adjust timings based on your slow cooker model for best results.
Can I make slow cooker beef and broccoli ahead of time?
Yes, you can easily prepare slow cooker beef and broccoli ahead of time! Simply slice the beef and mix your sauce ingredients together in a bowl. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready, place everything into the slow cooker in the morning for a hassle-free dinner later that day. This method not only saves time but also enhances flavor as the ingredients meld overnight. Just remember to add the broccoli during the last portion of cooking for optimal texture.
What can I serve with slow cooker beef and broccoli?
Slow cooker beef and broccoli pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Steamed jasmine or white rice is a classic option that soaks up the savory sauce beautifully. For a healthier alternative, consider serving it over quinoa or cauliflower rice. You could also add steamed vegetables like carrots or snap peas on the side for extra color and nutrition. If you enjoy noodles, try serving this dish over lo mein or rice noodles for a delightful twist.
Conclusion for slow cooker beef and broccoli :
In summary, slow cooker beef and broccoli is an easy-to-make dish that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. By using just a few simple ingredients like beef, soy sauce, garlic, and fresh broccoli, you can create a meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Cooking it low and slow allows flavors to develop while making sure your meat turns tender. hearty meatball soup slow cooker chicken soup Don’t forget to serve it with rice or noodles to enjoy every drop of that delicious sauce! Try this recipe today for a satisfying family dinner that everyone will love!
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Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a delightful, comforting dish that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen. Tender beef chuck roast simmers in a savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, complemented by vibrant broccoli florets. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this easy recipe guarantees a satisfying meal without any hassle. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete dish that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, sliced against the grain
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Slice the beef chuck roast into thin strips against the grain and place them in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, and sesame oil until combined. Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker.
- To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch with water until smooth and stir into the slow cooker during the final minutes of cooking.
- Serve over rice or noodles and drizzle with remaining sauce.
Notes
For added depth of flavor, consider searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker. You can swap broccoli for snap peas or bell peppers for a different twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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