As a busy home cook, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both quick and delicious. Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my favorite slow cooker recipes: Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, requiring minimal prep time and effort while delivering a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to please everyone in the family.
Why You’ll Love It
- Easy Prep: This recipe requires just a few minutes of hands-on time. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the magic.
- Tender Beef: The slow cooking process ensures that the beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Healthy Meal: With lean beef and plenty of broccoli, this dish is a nutritious choice for a family dinner.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Serving Size: 4-6 people
Ingredients
- 2 pounds round steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 broccoli crown, cut into bite-sized florets
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Add Beef to Slow Cooker: Place the steak pieces in the slow cooker.
- Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and garlic. Pour the sauce over the beef.
- Cook Beef: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3 hours until the beef is tender.
- Thicken Sauce: Whisk cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the slow cooker.
- Add Broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve: Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Rice: Serve over white or brown rice for a classic combination.
- Noodles: Try serving with noodles for a change of pace.
- Vegetables: Add some steamed mixed vegetables on the side for extra nutrition.
Tips for Customization
- Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herbs: Mix in some fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for added flavor.
- Protein Swap: Use chicken or pork if you prefer.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 369 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 1038mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze the beef and sauce, but it’s best to add fresh broccoli when reheating to maintain its texture.
Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thin?
A: Make sure to whisk the cornstarch thoroughly with cold water before adding it to the slow cooker. If the sauce still doesn’t thicken, you can simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli recipe is a staple for any busy home cook. It’s easy, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Give it a try and enjoy the convenience of a slow-cooked meal that’s ready when you are!
