The aroma of tender beef simmering in a savory sauce combined with crisp broccoli is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Imagine walking into your home after a long day to find this delightful scent welcoming you like a warm hug. That’s exactly what you get when you make crockpot beef and broccoli.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with nostalgia, reminding me of cozy family dinners where everyone gathers around the table, eager to dig in. Whether it’s a rainy Sunday or a hectic Tuesday evening, this recipe promises satisfaction with every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious dish takes only minutes to prepare with its simple ingredients
- The flavors meld beautifully in the crockpot while you relax or tackle chores
- It looks vibrant on the plate, making it perfect for entertaining guests
- Ideal for busy weekdays but fancy enough for special occasions!
I remember one time when I served this at a family gathering; everyone was so impressed that they forgot about dessert (which never happens).
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Flank Steak: Tender cuts are key here; look for well-marbled pieces for extra flavor.
- Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets without yellowing for best texture and taste.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs a punch; chop them finely to release their aromatic goodness.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium to control saltiness; balance is essential in this dish.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness that complements the soy sauce beautifully; don’t skip it!
- Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle brings an authentic Asian flavor; it’s worth the effort!
- Cornstarch: This will help thicken your sauce; mix it with water before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Onion: Use yellow onions for sweetness; they’ll caramelize nicely during cooking.
- Ginger Root: Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth; grate or finely chop it before use.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare your ingredients: Start by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain; this ensures tenderness after cooking. Chop your broccoli into bite-sized florets while enjoying their bright green hue.
Create the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil until combined. The sweet-savory aroma will have you dreaming of take-out nights!
Add everything to the crockpot: Layer sliced beef at the bottom of your slow cooker followed by chopped onion and broccoli florets. Pour your sauce over them evenly; don’t be shy—make sure everything is coated!
Cook low & slow: Set your crockpot on low heat and let it work its magic for 6-8 hours. Your kitchen will start smelling like an Asian bistro as all those flavors meld together.
Thicken the sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water into a slurry. Stir it into your crockpot mixture to achieve that luscious glaze we all crave.
Serve hot: Ladle generous portions over fluffy rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if you’re feeling fancy—it just elevates everything!
Now sit back and watch as everyone devours every last morsel from their plates!
This crockpot beef and broccoli recipe brings joy not only through its deliciousness but also through shared moments around the dinner table. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This Crockpot Beef and Broccoli recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights
- The tender beef combined with savory sauce and vibrant broccoli creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing on your dinner table
- Plus, it practically cooks itself!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the beef to lock in flavors, then add broccoli during the last hour for perfect tenderness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or microwave to preserve texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use flank steak for tenderness; it absorbs flavors beautifully
- Don’t rush the cooking time, as low and slow ensures melt-in-your-mouth beef
- Adjust soy sauce based on salt preference; it can be overpowering if overused
Sharing this recipe reminds me of the time my family gathered around the table, raving about how they’d never enjoyed broccoli so much—it was a proud moment!
FAQ
Can I use frozen beef for this Crockpot Beef and Broccoli?
Yes, but thawing beforehand helps achieve better flavor absorption during cooking.
How long should I cook the dish in a crockpot?
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for tender results.
What can I serve with Crockpot Beef and Broccoli?
Serve over rice or noodles to soak up that delicious sauce perfectly.
Crockpot Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crockpot Beef and Broccoli is a savory, comforting dish featuring tender beef and crisp broccoli simmered in a mouthwatering sauce, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Beef flank steak
- Fresh broccoli
- Garlic cloves
- Low-sodium soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Sesame oil
- Cornstarch
- Onion
- Ginger root
Instructions
- Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil until well combined.
- Layer sliced beef at the bottom of the crockpot, followed by onion and broccoli. Pour sauce evenly over the mixture.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is tender. About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water and stir into the crockpot to thicken the sauce.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
