Craving a delicious, takeout-style meal that’s easy to make at home? This Crockpot Beef and Broccoli recipe is a perfect choice! With tender slices of beef, savory sauce, and crisp broccoli, this dish is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it do the work! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal with little prep time. Let’s dive into this tasty and easy recipe!
Ingredients
For the Beef and Sauce:
- Beef sirloin, flank steak, or chuck roast (1 ½ lbs, thinly sliced against the grain)
- Beef broth (1 cup)
- Low-sodium soy sauce (½ cup)
- Brown sugar (¼ cup)
- Sesame oil (2 tbsp)
- Rice vinegar (2 tbsp)
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Fresh ginger (1 tbsp, grated)
- Red pepper flakes (¼ tsp, optional, for a bit of heat)
For Thickening and Adding Broccoli:
- Cornstarch (2 tbsp)
- Water (2 tbsp)
- Broccoli florets (4 cups, fresh or frozen)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce and Beef
In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 2: Add the Ingredients to the Crockpot
Place the sliced beef in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef, ensuring all the slices are coated.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the beef is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker, mixing well to combine with the sauce. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Add the Broccoli
While the sauce is thickening, steam or microwave the broccoli florets until they are crisp-tender. Add the cooked broccoli to the slow cooker, stirring gently to coat with the sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the beef and broccoli hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Helpful Notes
- For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of hoisin sauce or oyster sauce to the mixture.
- If you prefer softer broccoli, add it directly to the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
Ming Tsai suggests using a mix of light and dark soy sauce for a more complex flavor profile.
Rachael Ray recommends adding a dash of fish sauce for an umami boost.
Guy Fieri advises marinating the beef slices in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, flank steak, sirloin, or chuck roast work well for this recipe. Just ensure the beef is sliced thinly against the grain for tenderness.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes, a splash of sriracha, or diced chili peppers for extra heat.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Add it directly to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
You can substitute with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil, but sesame oil adds a unique nutty flavor.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, use the “Sauté” function to brown the beef, then cook on “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” for 15 minutes, followed by a quick release. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for a few minutes until thickened.
How do I keep the broccoli from getting mushy?
To keep the broccoli crisp-tender, steam or microwave it separately and add it to the slow cooker just before serving.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, snow peas, carrots, or mushrooms make great additions.
What can I serve with beef and broccoli?
Serve with rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat gently in a covered skillet over medium heat, or microwave in short intervals with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients, but ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.
Enjoy this Crockpot Beef and Broccoli—a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings the taste of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen!
