Irresistible Crockpot Beef and Broccoli – A Flavor-Packed, Easy Weeknight Dinner
If you're looking for a restaurant-quality meal that requires minimal effort, this Crockpot Beef and Broccoli recipe is a must-try! Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef is slow-cooked in a rich, savory-sweet sauce, then paired with crisp-tender broccoli and served over fluffy rice. It's the perfect combination of flavors and textures—just like your favorite takeout, but healthier and homemade.
This dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights because the crockpot does all the work while you go about your day. Plus, the deep umami flavors from the soy sauce and beef broth create an incredibly satisfying meal the whole family will love. Let's dive into the details of this must-have crockpot recipe!
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Ingredients & Their Roles
Each ingredient in this Beef and Broccoli recipe serves a crucial purpose, enhancing the dish’s overall taste and texture:
For the Beef & Sauce:
1 ½ pounds beef chuck roast, sliced into thin strips – This cut becomes incredibly tender after slow cooking, making it perfect for this dish.
1 cup beef consommé or beef broth – Adds depth of flavor and helps create a rich, umami-packed sauce.
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce – The key ingredient for a deep, savory taste without overpowering the dish.
⅓ cup dark brown sugar – Balances the saltiness with a touch of caramelized sweetness.
1 tablespoon sesame oil – Infuses the sauce with a toasty, nutty aroma that enhances the Asian-inspired flavors.
3 garlic cloves, minced – Adds a pungent, aromatic kick that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
¼ cup cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings perfectly to the beef and broccoli.
For the Vegetables & Serving:
3 cups frozen broccoli florets (one 14 oz bag) – Adds freshness, crunch, and color to the dish.
Cooked white or brown rice – A neutral base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, dark brown sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. This flavorful mixture will marinate the beef as it slow-cooks, making it incredibly juicy and tender.
2. Add the Beef to the Crockpot
Lay the thinly sliced beef strips in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them. Toss gently to ensure even coating.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low heat for 5–6 hours. This allows the beef to absorb all the savory, sweet, and umami flavors, making it fall-apart tender.
4. Thicken the Sauce
One hour before the cooking time is up, take ¼ cup of the sauce from the crockpot and whisk it with cornstarch in a small bowl. Slowly stir this mixture back into the crockpot to create a silky, rich sauce.
5. Add the Broccoli
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen broccoli florets. This ensures they stay bright green and slightly crisp, instead of turning mushy.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Scoop the tender beef and broccoli over a bowl of steaming white or brown rice. Drizzle extra sauce over the top for maximum flavor.
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Why This Crockpot Beef and Broccoli Recipe Is Loved
Easy & Hands-Free Cooking – Just toss everything in the crockpot, and let it work its magic!
Better Than Takeout – No preservatives, no MSG—just pure, fresh flavors.
Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable ingredients to create a gourmet meal.
Meal-Prep Friendly – Leftovers taste even better the next day!
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Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Beef and Broccoli
Use the Right Cut of Beef: Chuck roast is ideal, but flank steak or sirloin also work well.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Add it in the last 30 minutes to maintain a crisp texture.
For Extra Flavor: Add a dash of oyster sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick!
Want a Thicker Sauce? Use an extra tablespoon of cornstarch for a richer consistency.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a classic pairing.
Try it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Pair with a side of egg rolls or wonton soup for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
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Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Beef and Broccoli is an absolute winner when it comes to flavor, ease, and comfort. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you get a dish that’s better than takeout, packed with rich flavors, and guaranteed to impress.
Make this tonight and enjoy a stress-fr
ee, delicious dinner that the whole family will love! Don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow food lovers!
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