Savory Simplicity: How to Make Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

How to Make Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Thinly slice your beef against the grain to ensure it stays tender during cooking. If slicing is tricky, place the beef in the freezer for about 20 minutes to firm it up for easier cutting.

Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This savory-sweet combination is the heart of the dish.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Beef
Place the sliced beef in your Crockpot and pour the prepared sauce over it. Stir to coat the beef evenly. Cover the Crockpot and cook on low heat for 5–6 hours or high heat for 2–3 hours, until the beef is tender and infused with the sauce’s flavors.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Once the beef is cooked, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth and stir it into the slow cooker. Turn the heat to high and let it cook for an additional 20–30 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Cook the Broccoli
While the sauce is thickening, steam or microwave the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. Add the cooked broccoli to the slow cooker and gently toss to combine.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the beef and broccoli over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve warm and watch it disappear!

Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Chuck roast, flank steak, or sirloin work beautifully for this recipe. Just be sure to slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Control the Saltiness: Soy sauce can be salty, so opt for a low-sodium version if possible. You can also adjust the sauce by adding a splash of water or beef broth if you find it too strong.
Broccoli Tips: For the best texture, add the broccoli at the end of cooking. Overcooking it in the Crockpot can make it mushy, so steaming it separately is ideal.
Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Crockpot Beef and Broccoli stores well! Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain its tender texture.