Introduction and Quick Summary

Have you ever craved a meal that combines tender beef with vibrant vegetables in a savory sauce? Slow cooker beef and broccoli is the answer to that craving. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your home with delightful aromas as it cooks throughout the day. Imagine coming home to a warm bowl of steaming goodness that requires minimal effort.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The fusion of succulent strips of beef cooked to perfection alongside crunchy broccoli creates an irresistible experience for your senses. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that everyone will love. Get ready for an explosion of flavor with each bite.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

• Effortless Meal Prep: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. This recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the beef and nutrients from the broccoli, this dish strikes a balance between indulgence and health.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Beef Flank Steak: Choose high-quality flank steak for tenderness. Slice it thinly against the grain for optimal results.
• Fresh Broccoli Florets: Select bright green florets that are firm to the touch. Fresh broccoli adds texture and nutrition to the dish.
• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still providing rich flavor.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the overall taste; mince or chop them finely for maximum flavor infusion.
• Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness that balances out the saltiness of the soy sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

For the Sauce:

• Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to keep excess salt at bay while adding depth to your sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Slice your flank steak into thin strips against the grain. This ensures tenderness once cooked.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, and beef broth until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Place sliced beef into your slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the meat ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Step 4: Cook on Low Heat

Cover your slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low heat for about six hours or until the meat is tender.

Step 5: Add Broccoli

In the final hour of cooking, add fresh broccoli florets to your slow cooker. Stir gently to combine with other ingredients.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Transfer your slow-cooked beef and broccoli onto plates or bowls. Serve warm over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Pre-Slice Your Meat: For easier cooking later on, slice your meat before starting any preparations; it saves time when you’re ready to serve.
• Adjust Cooking Time: If you’re short on time, you can cook on high heat for about three hours instead of six on low.
• Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to experiment by adding bell peppers or snap peas for additional color and nutrition.

Mistakes to avoid

• Not Marinating the Beef: One common mistake is skipping the marination step for the beef. Marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness of your meat, making a significant difference in the final dish. A simple marinade can include soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Allowing the beef to soak up these flavors for at least 30 minutes before cooking will elevate your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli. Without this step, your dish may taste bland and unappealing.
• Choosing the Wrong Cut of Beef: Selecting an inappropriate cut of beef can lead to chewy and tough results. For a successful Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli, opt for cuts that are known for their tenderness when slow-cooked, such as flank steak or sirloin. Avoid using lean cuts like tenderloin or round steak, as they may not withstand long cooking times well. The right cut will ensure a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Overcooking the Broccoli: Broccoli cooks faster than beef in a slow cooker, making it easy to overcook if added too early. To prevent mushy broccoli, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This timing allows the broccoli to retain its vibrant color and crisp texture while still absorbing the delicious flavors from your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli sauce. Proper timing ensures that all components of the dish shine.

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, steamed rice absorbs the flavorful sauce from the beef and broccoli beautifully.
• Quinoa: For a healthier alternative, serve this dish over quinoa. It adds a nutty flavor that complements the savory beef.
• Noodles: Try serving it over rice noodles or udon for a delightful twist on traditional Asian cuisine.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?

Using frozen broccoli in your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli recipe is an option, but there are some considerations. While frozen broccoli is convenient, it tends to become mushy when cooked for extended periods. If you prefer using frozen vegetables, add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking to maintain their texture. Fresh broccoli provides a crispier bite and vibrant color, enhancing the overall appearance and taste of the dish.

How can I thicken the sauce in my Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?

If you find that your Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli has a thinner sauce than desired, there are simple ways to thicken it. One effective method is to create a cornstarch slurry by mixing equal parts cornstarch and cold water. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can remove some liquid at the end of cooking and reduce it on the stove until it thickens before adding it back to the dish.

Can I make Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli ahead of time?

Absolutely. Preparing Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli ahead of time can save you valuable minutes during busy evenings. You can assemble all ingredients in advance and store them in your refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. For maximum flavor, consider marinating the beef in soy sauce and garlic overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer everything to your slow cooker and let it do its magic.

What kind of beef is best for Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?

Choosing the right cut of beef is crucial for making delicious Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli. Flank steak or sirloin are popular choices due to their tenderness when cooked slowly. Both cuts absorb flavors well while maintaining their juiciness. Avoid using lean cuts like tenderloin as they may dry out during extended cooking times. Slicing against the grain will also help ensure each bite remains tender.

Conclusion for Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

In summary, Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines tender beef with fresh broccoli in a savory sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The adaptability of this recipe allows for various accompaniments such as steamed rice or quinoa. Additionally, understanding how to modify cooking methods or ingredients ensures that you achieve the best flavor every time you prepare it. Enjoy this easy-to-make meal that brings comfort food right to your table.

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Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

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• Author: Ann Foster
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish that perfectly marries tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. This effortless recipe requires minimal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. As the ingredients slow-cook together, your home will fill with mouthwatering aromas, promising a satisfying meal. Serve this hearty dish over steamed rice or noodles for a fulfilling dinner that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb beef flank steak
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth

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Instructions

1. Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain.
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, and beef broth until well combined.
3. Place sliced beef in the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over it, ensuring even coating.
4. Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours or until the beef is tender.
5. In the last hour of cooking, add fresh broccoli florets and stir gently to combine.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 360 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 80mg