Growing up, dinner at our house was always a family affair. My mom would whip up delicious meals that brought us together, and one of our favorites was her Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli. It was a recipe that seemed to have a little bit of everything: tender meat, vibrant veggies, and a rich sauce that left you wanting more. As a busy mom myself, I appreciate recipes that are not only tasty but also easy to prepare. This dish checks all those boxes!
There’s something so comforting about coming home to the smell of beef and garlic wafting through the house. It reminds me of cozy family nights when we would gather around the table and share our day’s highlights. The best part? This recipe is incredibly simple, so even if you have a packed schedule, you can still whip up a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
The beauty of this Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli is that it’s versatile. Whether you’re serving it on a weekday or for a special occasion, it fits right in. Plus, you can make it as spicy or mild as you like! I often tweak the ingredients based on what I have on hand, which is a great way to reduce waste and save time. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s get started on a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
How to Make Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of thinly sliced sirloin steak or boneless chuck roast
- 1/2 cup of reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 Tablespoons of cornstarch
- 4 Tablespoons of water
- 12-ounce bag of frozen broccoli florets
- White rice, cooked (optional for serving)
Directions
Start by placing the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and chopped garlic in a 6-quart slow cooker. Use a whisk to mix everything thoroughly.
Add the sliced beef to the sauce mixture and stir until the meat is well coated. Secure the lid on the crock pot and set it to cook on low for about 5 hours, or until the beef becomes tender.
Once the beef is ready, prepare a slurry by mixing the cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine.
Add the frozen broccoli to the pot, stirring it into the beef and sauce. Cover the slow cooker again and let it cook for another 30 minutes, allowing the broccoli to heat through and the sauce to thicken.
When serving, ladle the beef and broccoli over a bed of freshly cooked white rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving again.
Cooking Tips
To enhance the flavor of this dish, consider marinating the beef in the soy sauce and garlic for an hour before cooking. You can also add a splash of rice vinegar for an extra zing. If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch in the slurry.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this beef and broccoli dish with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a delightful meal. You can also garnish it with sesame seeds or sliced green onions to add a pop of color and flavor. A side of crispy spring rolls or a light cucumber salad works well too!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have sirloin steak, you can substitute it with flank steak or even chicken for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, use tofu or tempeh instead of meat and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth can replace beef broth for a lighter option.
Seasonal Variations
In the spring, consider adding fresh asparagus or snap peas to the dish for a seasonal twist. In the fall, you can incorporate sliced mushrooms or butternut squash for a heartier meal. Adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose to include.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains common allergens like soy and gluten. To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. For those allergic to sesame, you can omit the sesame oil or replace it with olive oil. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and sauce a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it in the slow cooker on low when you’re ready to serve. Just add the broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a spicier dish, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. For a milder flavor, simply omit the spices or use sweet soy sauce.
What type of rice pairs best with this dish?
White rice is a classic choice, but jasmine or basmati rice adds a fragrant touch. Brown rice or cauliflower rice are great healthier alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of rice you choose.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli works beautifully! Just steam it for a few minutes before adding it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This ensures it remains vibrant and crisp.
What can I serve with Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli?
This dish pairs wonderfully with egg rolls, spring rolls, or even a simple cucumber salad. For a drink, serve it with iced green tea or a light soda to complement the meal.
Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
- 2 pounds thinly sliced sirloin steak or boneless chuck roast
- 1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 tablespoons water
- 12 ounce bag of frozen broccoli florets
- White rice, cooked optional for serving
Instructions
- In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Whisk until well mixed.
- Add the thinly sliced beef to the mixture, stirring to coat the meat evenly. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for about 5 hours until the beef is tender.
- When the meat is ready, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour it into the slow cooker, stirring gently to blend.
- Add the frozen broccoli to the beef mixture, stirring lightly to incorporate the broccoli into the sauce. Cover again and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes until the broccoli is hot and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the beef and broccoli over freshly cooked white rice. Enjoy your meal!
