Easy Crockpot Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Recipe By:
Hannah Mitchell
Updated:

Crockpot Beef and Broccoli is the kind of dish that makes your mouth water just thinking about it. Imagine tender strips of beef bathed in a rich, savory sauce that smells like a warm hug on a chilly day. Paired with bright green broccoli that adds a pop of color and crunch, this dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Now picture this: You come home after a long day, and instead of facing a mountain of dishes or a cranky family waiting for dinner, you’re greeted by the irresistible aroma wafting through your home from your trusty crockpot. This meal practically cooks itself while you’re out conquering the world (or at least surviving your workday). Doesn’t that sound like heaven?

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This dish offers unbeatable convenience with minimal prep time required
  • The flavor profile is rich yet balanced, combining sweet and savory elements perfectly
  • Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, it looks as good as it tastes
  • It’s also versatile enough to pair with rice or noodles for different meals

Sometimes I serve this dish when I’m trying to impress guests. Let’s just say it’s never failed to turn my friends into instant fans.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

  • Beef Flank Steak: Opt for flank steak as it becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked; slice against the grain for best results.
  • Fresh Broccoli: Look for vibrant green florets; they should be crisp but not wilted for optimal flavor.
  • Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while still delivering that umami punch.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness; use dark brown sugar if you want deeper caramel notes.
  • Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic gives amazing flavor; crush them instead of mincing to release more oils.
  • Ginger Root: Fresh ginger brightens the dish; peel it easily using the edge of a spoon before grating.
  • Sesame Oil: A drizzle elevates the flavor; choose high-quality sesame oil for an authentic taste.
  • Cornstarch: This thickens the sauce beautifully; mix it with cold water before adding to avoid clumps.
  • Water or Beef Broth: For added depth of flavor; broth will give a richer taste compared to plain water.

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

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare yourself because we’re diving into an easy yet rewarding cooking experience!

Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by trimming any excess fat off the flank steak before thinly slicing it against the grain into bite-sized pieces. Chop your fresh broccoli into florets—aim for bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

Create Your Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and cornstarch mixed with water until smooth. This fragrant mixture will be our magical potion!

Combine Everything in the Crockpot: Add sliced beef and chopped broccoli into your crockpot. Pour your prepared sauce over everything evenly. Stir gently to coat all ingredients well.

Set It Up to Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it on low heat for 4-6 hours or high heat for 2-3 hours—until the beef is tender and cooked through.

Add Final Touches: Once done cooking, give everything a good stir to ensure it’s coated in that luscious sauce again. If it’s too thin for your liking, let it cook uncovered on high for another 30 minutes.

Strongly consider serving this delightful dish over fluffy white rice or noodles to soak up all that irresistible sauce!

Now you’ve got not just any meal but an incredible Crockpot Beef and Broccoli experience waiting for you! Enjoy every bite while basking in all those compliments you’ll receive from family or friends!

You Must Know

  • Cooking Crockpot Beef and Broccoli is a set-it-and-forget-it delight
  • The tender beef paired with vibrant broccoli delivers a symphony of flavors and aromas that waft through your home, making it feel like a five-star restaurant experience
  • Easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef in a skillet for extra flavor. Then, combine everything in the crockpot and let it cook low and slow for about 6 hours.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the broccoli for snow peas or add some bell peppers for a colorful twist. Experimenting with soy sauce alternatives can also create unique flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For an even richer flavor, marinate your beef overnight
  • Always slice against the grain for tenderness
  • Avoid overcooking broccoli; it should remain bright green and slightly crisp

Cooking this dish reminds me of when my mom made it for family gatherings. Everyone would gather around, and by the time dinner was served, we were all practically drooling.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen beef for Crockpot Beef and Broccoli?

Yes, but thaw it first for even cooking throughout.

What can I serve with Crockpot Beef and Broccoli?

Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal experience.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or chili sauce during cooking to kick up the heat!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Crockpot Beef and Broccoli is a mouthwatering dish featuring tender beef and vibrant broccoli simmered in a savory sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb beef flank steak
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
  • 1/2 cup water or beef broth

Instructions

  1. Trim excess fat from the flank steak and slice against the grain into bite-sized pieces. Cut broccoli into florets.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and cornstarch mixture until smooth.
  3. Add sliced beef and broccoli to the crockpot. Pour the sauce over them and stir gently to coat.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender.
  5. Stir well before serving; if the sauce is too thin, cook uncovered on high for an additional 30 minutes. Serve over rice or noodles.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4–6 hours
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star