Need a quick weeknight dinner solution? Try this easy crockpot beef and broccoli recipe, a homemade family favorite made with tender beef and steamed broccoli, save for later

Crockpot Beef And Broccoli

Introduction

Crockpot Beef And Broccoli is a dish that embodies the perfect blend of ease, flavor, and creativity, all while utilizing everyday ingredients that are likely sitting in your pantry. This recipe is a staple for any home cook looking to prepare a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort. The slow-cooked beef and broccoli in a rich, savory sauce is a match made in heaven, and the best part is that it’s incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re a busy professional or an avid home cook, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The beauty of using a crockpot lies in its ability to transform tougher cuts of meat into tender, fall-apart pieces, all while infusing them with deep, satisfying flavors. So, if you’re looking for a dish that’s both impressive and effortless, look no further than Crockpot Beef And Broccoli.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes the perfect balance between salty, sweet, and savory flavors, and it does so using ingredients that are easily found in most grocery stores.
Ease of preparation: The beauty of a crockpot recipe is that it requires minimal preparation and effort. Simply throw all the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the ease of preparation, this recipe yields impressive results that are sure to wow your family and friends. The slow-cooked beef and broccoli are tender and flavorful, and the sauce is rich and savory.

Key Ingredients

The key ingredients in this recipe are beef (such as chuck or round), broccoli, onion, garlic, soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and sesame oil. You can also add other ingredients to customize the recipe to your taste, such as red pepper flakes for some heat or sliced bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. For a gluten-free option, be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce. If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute it with olive or avocado oil, although keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preparing the ingredients. Chop the onion and garlic, and slice the beef into thin strips. Cut the broccoli into florets and set aside.
Step 2: In the crockpot, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Add the sliced beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Stir to combine, then cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Step 3: About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli florets to the crockpot. Stir to combine, then cover and continue cooking until the broccoli is tender.
Step 4: Serve the beef and broccoli hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. You can serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own.

Handy Tips

Be sure to slice the beef against the grain for the most tender results.
If using frozen broccoli, thaw it first and squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to the crockpot.
For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the crockpot 30 minutes before serving.

Heat Control

The beauty of a crockpot is that it does the work for you, cooking the ingredients at a low and steady heat. If you prefer your beef more well-done, cook it on high for 4 hours. If you prefer it more rare, cook it on low for 6 hours. The broccoli will be tender and cooked through after 30 minutes of cooking time.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this recipe comes from the broccoli and the sesame seeds used as a garnish. To achieve the perfect crunch, be sure not to overcook the broccoli. It should be tender but still crisp. You can also add other crunchy ingredients, such as sliced bell peppers or water chestnuts, to the crockpot for added texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

For a deeper flavor, brown the beef in a pan before adding it to the crockpot.
Use a slow cooker liner to make cleanup a breeze.
Experiment with different seasonings, such as five-spice powder or red pepper flakes, to add unique flavors to the dish.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot and steaming.
Freeze the cooked beef and broccoli in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen, adding a little water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This recipe is perfect for gifting to friends and family, especially during the holidays. Consider packaging the cooked beef and broccoli in a decorative jar or container, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. You can also include a bag of rice or noodles and a few seasonings, such as soy sauce and sesame oil, to make it a complete gift.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Add some heat with red pepper flakes or sliced jalapenos.
🌟 Experiment with different seasonings, such as five-spice powder or curry powder, for a unique flavor.
🌟 Swap out the beef for chicken or pork for a different twist on the recipe.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the beef is tough, it may be due to overcooking. Try cooking it for a shorter amount of time or using a more tender cut of meat.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute it with olive or avocado oil. If you don’t have soy sauce, you can use coconut aminos or tamari as a gluten-free alternative.
Over/undercooking signs: If the broccoli is overcooked, it will be mushy and unappetizing. If it’s undercooked, it will be crunchy and raw-tasting. Aim for a tender but still crisp texture.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef and broccoli for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen, adding a little water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce. Be sure to check the labels of all the ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe if you need to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply all the ingredients by two and cook in a larger crockpot or Dutch oven.

Conclusion

Crockpot Beef And Broccoli is a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household. It’s easy to prepare, flavorful, and comforting, making it the perfect dish for a busy weeknight or a special occasion. With its rich, savory sauce and tender beef and broccoli, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors and textures that it has to offer. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own, and be sure to share your creations with others. Happy cooking!

Easy Crockpot Beef And Broccoli Stew