A warm aroma fills the kitchen as the slow cooker works its magic, transforming sliced beef and tender broccoli into a rich, flavorful dish. This Crockpot Beef and Broccoli not only takes about 7 hours to cook but also ensures the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender. The secret lies in the slow cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a comforting weeknight meal. It’s ideal for cozy evenings or meal prepping, as you can store leftovers for quick lunches.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The beef becomes incredibly tender after slow cooking for hours.
- Broccoli retains its crunch while absorbing the delicious sauce.
- It’s an effortless one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup.
- The sauce is perfectly balanced with sweet and savory notes.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for a successful dish.
For the Beef
- 1.5 lbs beef (flank steak or sirloin), sliced into thin strips
For the Sauce
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
For the Broccoli
- 4 cups broccoli florets
For Thickening
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For Serving
- Cooked rice for serving
Substitution note: Flank steak can be replaced with sirloin.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Soy sauce can be substituted with tamari for gluten-free.
- Brown sugar can be replaced with honey for different sweetness.
- Fresh ginger can be swapped with ground ginger in a pinch.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create this delicious dish.
Combine ingredients
In a slow cooker, combine soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
Add beef
Add the sliced beef to the mixture and stir to coat.
Cook
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
Add broccoli
About 30 minutes before serving, add broccoli florets to the slow cooker.
Thicken sauce
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry, then stir into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
Serve
Serve hot over cooked rice.
How to Store It
Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, broccoli may become mushy.
Reheat: Microwave on medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Slice the beef against the grain for tenderness.
- Use fresh broccoli for the best texture.
- Adjust the brown sugar based on your sweetness preference.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over a fluffy bed of jasmine or basmati rice.
- Pair with steamed dumplings for a complete meal.
- Enjoy with a side of sautéed snap peas for added crunch.
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