Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooked Beef and Broccoli Recipe
When you immerse yourself in this slow-cooked beef and broccoli recipe, you’ll quickly discover why it’s a favorite. The rich, savory flavors meld together beautifully as the beef becomes tender and infused with teriyaki goodness.
I love how the slow cooker does all the work for me, allowing me to focus on other tasks or enjoy time with family. Plus, the vibrant broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition to the dish.
It’s a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy day. Serving it over fluffy rice makes it even better! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this recipe a regular part of your dinner rotation.
Ingredients of Slow Cooked Beef and Broccoli
When it comes to whipping up a delicious dinner that practically cooks itself, this Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli recipe is a total win. Seriously, the ingredients are simple, but the flavors are anything but basic. You’ve got tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and a savory teriyaki sauce that all come together in a slow cooker.
Just imagine walking into your home after a long day and being greeted by the mouthwatering aroma wafting through the air. It’s like a warm invitation to dinner. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to get started.
Here’s the ingredient list you’ll need for this delightful dish:
- 1 lb boneless beef top round steak, trimmed of fat and cut into cubes
- 1 (4 1/2 ounce) jar sliced mushrooms, drained
- 1 medium onion, cut into wedges
- 1/2 cup condensed beef broth
- 3 tablespoons purchased teriyaki baste and glaze
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon dark sesame oil (if desired)
- 2/3 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 1/3 cups water (for the beef mixture)
- 2 tablespoons water (for the cornstarch mixture)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 cups frozen broccoli, thawed
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a second. You might be wondering if you can swap out the beef for another protein, and the answer is yes! Chicken or tofu could work, too, but they might require different cooking times or adjustments in flavor.
And hey, if you’re not a fan of mushrooms, feel free to leave them out, although they really do add a nice earthy flavor. Always remember, cooking is a canvas for creativity, so don’t hesitate to make this dish your own! Just keep an eye on the cooking times if you make any substitutions.
Now, are you ready to turn on that slow cooker and plunge into some deliciousness?
How to Make Slow Cooked Beef and Broccoli
Let’s plunge into how to make this scrumptious Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli that practically cooks itself while you go about your day. First things first, grab your 1 lb of boneless beef top round steak, which you should have cut into tender cubes. Toss those little morsels into your slow cooker along with a 4 1/2-ounce jar of sliced mushrooms (which you’ve drained, of course—no one wants a soggy dish).
Next, add in your medium onion that you’ve cut into wedges. It’s like you’re building a flavor fortress, layer by layer. Now, pour in 1/2 cup of condensed beef broth, followed by 3 tablespoons of that delicious teriyaki baste and glaze. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds, and if you’re feeling fancy, a teaspoon of dark sesame oil. This oil adds a lovely depth to the dish, but if you don’t have it, no biggie—just keep calm and carry on.
Once all your ingredients are cozily sitting together in the slow cooker, give it a gentle stir to mix everything up. Cover that bad boy, set it to the Low setting, and let it work its magic for about 8 to 10 hours. Yes, you read that right. While you’re out conquering the world (or just binge-watching your favorite show), dinner is simmering away, filling your home with an irresistible aroma.
When you’re about 35 minutes from serving time, it’s time to cook your rice. Boil 1 1/3 cups of water with 2/3 cup of long-grain white rice, following the package directions.
Now, let’s not forget the finishing touches. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of water with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until it’s smooth. This is your secret weapon to thicken the sauce just right. Stir that cornstarch mixture and 2 cups of thawed frozen broccoli into the slow cooker, cover it again, and let it cook for another 30 minutes on Low until the broccoli is crisp-tender.
And there you have it—an easy and delightful dinner that’ll make you feel like a culinary genius. Serve everything over the fluffy rice, and you’re ready to dig in. Just be careful; the aroma might make you want to plunge in before it even hits the table. Enjoy the satisfaction of a meal well made.
Slow Cooked Beef and Broccoli Substitutions & Variations
While sticking to the classic recipe is always a good choice, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate your Slow Cooked Beef and Broccoli to new heights.
For instance, if you’re looking for a leaner option, try using chicken breast or turkey instead of beef. Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for a colorful twist.
I also love adding fresh ginger or garlic for extra flavor. If you’re vegan, using tofu and vegetable broth works beautifully.
For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha. Don’t hesitate to play around; each variation can lead to a delicious new favorite!
What to Serve with Slow Cooked Beef and Broccoli
To truly enjoy your Slow Cooked Beef and Broccoli, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal.
I love serving it over fluffy white rice, which absorbs all those delicious teriyaki flavors. If you want to add a revitalizing touch, some steamed edamame or a simple cucumber salad works wonders.
For a heartier option, consider some garlic fried rice or even quinoa, which complements the dish’s savory profile. A side of pickled vegetables can also bring a nice tanginess that balances the richness of the beef.
Finally, don’t forget a warm bowl of miso soup to complete the Asian-inspired experience. These sides not only enhance the meal but also make it feel more complete.
Additional Tips & Notes
Although preparing Slow Cooked Beef and Broccoli is straightforward, a few additional tips can help enhance your dish.
First, don’t skimp on marinating your beef in teriyaki sauce for a few hours before cooking—it really amps up the flavor. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
I also recommend using fresh broccoli instead of frozen for a crisper texture, though thawed works in a pinch. Be sure to check the meat toward the end of cooking; it should be fork-tender.
Finally, serving this over jasmine rice adds a lovely fragrance that complements the dish beautifully. Enjoy your cooking, and I hope your meal turns out delicious!