Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
Try this Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli recipe, or contribute your own.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1/3 upbrown sugar
- 1-2 lbs boneless beef chuck roast cut into thin strips
- 1 cup beef broth (i used reduced sodium)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (i used reduced sodium)
- 3-4 cups fresh broccoli cut into bite-sized pieces
- hot cooked rice (could also use brown rice or quin
- Carbohydrate 2.56925000078281 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 3.38725000684777 g
- Fiber 0.0652499973851148 g
- Protein 0.14830000000223 g
- Saturated Fat 0.481432500972399 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -5 (15g)
- Sodium 0.858749999826756 mg
- Sugar 2.50400000339769 g
- Trans Fat 0.151897500301283 g
- Calories 41 calories
Step-by-step
- Spray slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place beef strips inside slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, mix beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and garlic cloves together.
- Pour over the beef strips in the crock pot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours (the beef will be so tender that it will fall apart when you touch it).
- In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and cold water.
- Mix in with the beef and liquid that is in the slow cooker.
- Add broccoli pieces to the slow cooker, put the lid back on, and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high heat.
- Stir, then serve over hot rice.
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner prep needs to be quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. That's why I've become a huge fan of slow cooker recipes – they practically cook themselves! And this Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a standout. It’s a perfect blend of savory and subtly sweet, with tender beef and crisp-tender broccoli. The best part? Minimal prep time and maximum flavor.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and come evening, you're greeted with a fragrant, ready-to-eat meal. No more frantic rushing around after work trying to get dinner on the table. This recipe is a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when I'm juggling work, kids' activities, and everything in between. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the beef to become incredibly tender.
I've experimented with different variations of this recipe, and I've found that using reduced-sodium soy sauce and beef broth helps to control the sodium content without sacrificing flavor. It's a healthier twist on a classic takeout favorite, and my family loves it. The combination of the rich, savory beef, the crisp broccoli florets, and the warm, fluffy rice is pure comfort food. It’s the kind of meal that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly easy to make.
Beyond the Weeknight: While this recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight, it's also adaptable for other occasions. Imagine serving this at a casual get-together with friends, or even a potluck. It's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The leftovers are fantastic too, making it an economical choice. Simply reheat and enjoy the delicious flavors all over again.
Tips and Variations:
- Beef Choice: While chuck roast is my go-to, you can also experiment with other cuts of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak. Just be sure to cut it into thin strips for even cooking.
- Broccoli Variations: Feel free to substitute other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or snap peas. You could even add some sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Rice Options: While white rice is a classic pairing, brown rice or quinoa would also be delicious.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently before serving.
More than just a meal; it’s a time-saver, a flavor bomb, and a testament to the magic of the slow cooker. Give it a try, and I'm confident it'll become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.
