When it comes to weeknight dinners that can make even the busiest parents swoon with delight, few dishes compare to the heavenly aroma of Crockpot Beef and Broccoli wafting through the house. Imagine this: tender pieces of beef swimming in a savory sauce, mingling effortlessly with vibrant green broccoli florets that seem to dance in delight. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that warms the heart and fills the belly.
I remember the first time I made this dish; my kids thought they were dining at a fancy restaurant instead of our cozy kitchen. We all sat at the table, forks poised as they eagerly anticipated what was bubbling away in the crockpot. Spoiler alert: there were no leftovers that night!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crockpot Beef and Broccoli is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its rich flavors and tender textures will leave your taste buds dancing with joy
- The vibrant colors also add visual appeal to your dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for meal prep or entertaining guests!
I’ll never forget how my best friend declared herself “the queen of leftovers” after trying this recipe; she couldn’t believe how well it reheated.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Chuck Roast: A well-marbled cut ensures tenderness during long cooking; you could also use flank steak if preferred.
- Broccoli Florets: Fresh is best here; frozen works but may be slightly mushy.
- Garlic: Use fresh cloves for an aromatic kick; minced garlic brings a punch of flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels without sacrificing taste.
- Brown Sugar: Balances the saltiness of soy sauce beautifully for a sweet-savory delight.
- Beef Broth: Adds depth to the sauce; you can substitute with water if necessary.
- Cornstarch: Thicken up that luscious sauce at the end; don’t skip this step!
- Sesame Oil: A drizzle adds a nutty flavor that elevates this dish from good to extraordinary.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. Let’s break it down into simple steps so you can impress everyone at dinner without breaking a sweat.
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by trimming excess fat off your beef chuck roast and cutting it into bite-sized pieces. This helps ensure even cooking throughout.
Add Ingredients to the Crockpot: Toss your beef chunks into the crockpot along with broccoli florets, minced garlic cloves, soy sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Stir gently until combined.
Cover and Cook Low & Slow: Set your crockpot on low heat for 6-8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when your home smells like an Asian bistro on a Friday night!
Create Your Sauce Thickener: About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into your crockpot—watch as your sauce thickens magically!
Add Sesame Oil Last: Just before serving, drizzle sesame oil over the top for an extra layer of flavor. Trust me; this step is non-negotiable!
This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice or noodles—need I say more?
With each bite of this delightful Crockpot Beef and Broccoli recipe, you’ll find yourself transported back to those cherished family dinners where laughter filled every corner of the room. So grab your crockpot and get cooking!
You Must Know
- This delightful crockpot beef and broccoli dish combines tender beef with vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce
- Perfect for a busy weeknight, it fills your home with mouthwatering aromas that make everyone eager for dinner
- Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, sear the beef first for flavor, then add broccoli halfway through cooking to keep it crisp.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for snap peas or bell peppers and add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
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 to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender beef, slice against the grain and use well-marbled cuts like chuck roast
- Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning as needed
- Don’t forget to thicken the sauce at the end for that perfect glaze!
Cooking this crockpot beef and broccoli became a family tradition when my kids begged for more after just one bite—now it’s a staple at our gatherings!
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli in my crockpot beef and broccoli?
Absolutely! Just add it during the last hour of cooking to prevent mushiness.
What can I serve with crockpot beef and broccoli?
Serve it over rice, quinoa, or toss with noodles for a satisfying meal.
How do I prevent my beef from becoming tough?
Choose well-marbled cuts and avoid overcooking; slow cooking keeps it tender.
Crockpot Beef and Broccoli
Crockpot Beef and Broccoli is a savory delight that combines tender beef with fresh broccoli in a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it will please the whole family.
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4 - 6
Ingredients
- Beef Chuck Roast
- Broccoli Florets
- Garlic
- Soy Sauce
- Brown Sugar
- Beef Broth
- Cornstarch
- Sesame Oil
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the beef chuck roast and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- In the crockpot, combine beef, broccoli florets, minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Stir gently.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth; stir into the crockpot to thicken the sauce.
- Just before serving, drizzle sesame oil over the top for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 - 8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
