Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

by
Print PDF eBook

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Description

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a comforting and flavorful dish inspired by the classic Chinese takeout favorite. Tender slices of beef are slow-cooked in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar until they become incredibly juicy and rich in flavor. Fresh broccoli is added toward the end of cooking to maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture. Served over a bowl of fluffy rice, this easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

 Ingredients

  • 1 pound beef (flank steak or sirloin), sliced thin

  • 2 cups broccoli florets

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

  • ⅓ cup brown sugar

  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

  • 2 tablespoons water

  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional garnish)

  • 2 cups cooked white rice for serving

Instructions

  1. Place the thinly sliced beef into the slow cooker.

  2. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.

  3. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.

  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the beef becomes tender.

  5. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.

  6. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.

  7. Add the broccoli florets and cook for another 20–30 minutes until tender.

  8. Serve the beef and broccoli over steamed rice and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.

 Notes

  • Slice beef against the grain to make it more tender.

  • Fresh broccoli provides the best texture, but frozen broccoli can also be used.

  • If using frozen broccoli, add it during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Tips

✔ Marinate the beef in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking for deeper flavor.
✔ Add red pepper flakes or chili sauce for a spicy version.
✔ For extra vegetables, add carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas.
✔ Serve with brown rice or noodles for variety.

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 320 kcal

  • Protein: 28 g

  • Carbohydrates: 24 g

  • Fat: 12 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sugar: 14 g

  • Sodium: 780 mg

 Health Benefits

Broccoli:

  • Rich in vitamins C, K, and antioxidants

  • Supports immune health and digestion

Beef:

  • High in protein and iron

  • Helps build muscle and support energy levels

Garlic & Ginger:

  • Anti-inflammatory properties

  • Supports heart health and digestion

Q & A

Q1: What is the best cut of beef for this recipe?

Flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak are ideal because they become tender when slow cooked.

Q2: Can I cook this recipe faster?

Yes, cook on HIGH for 2–3 hours instead of low.

Q3: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Replace soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.

Q4: Can I store leftovers?

Yes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

Q5: Can this recipe be frozen?

Yes. The cooked beef and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Add fresh broccoli when reheating for the best texture.

 Servings

4 servings

Leave a Comment