Incredible Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli

Craving simple comfort? This crock pot beef and broccoli is melt-in-your-mouth tender and SO easy. Ditch the takeaway – get my secret for a flavour-packed dish tonight!

Easy Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli: Better Than Takeout!

Alright, let's dive headfirst into this!

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a proper takeaway without the guilt? This crock pot beef and broccoli recipe is your answer. Honestly, it's like a hug in a bowl.

Brief Overview

This dish gives you tender beef and broccoli in a rich, savory sauce. this beauty is inspired by the chinese-american classic, ideal for busy weeknights.

It’s simpler than whipping up a jambalaya and tastes just as good.

Main Benefits

This recipe gives you a satisfying meal packed with protein. it's perfect when you are craving comfort food and a healthy crock pot meal.

What makes it special is the minimal effort with maximum flavour. you know?

Incredible Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli Recipe Card

Easy Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli: Better Than Takeout! Recipe Card
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Preparation time:15 Mins
Cooking time:04 Hrs
Servings:6 servings

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Why You'll Love This Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli

So, you're probably wondering why you should bother with this crockpot beef and broccoli , right? well, let me tell you, this ain't your average slow cooker dinner .

Honestly, once you try it, you will be converted. there's a stat for you: 9 out of 10 people prefer this crockpot dish to takeout! (okay, i made that up, but you get the point).

This version ticks all the boxes.

It's ridiculously easy crockpot dinners to make. it’s also cheaper and healthier than ordering in. this recipe uses simple ingredients you can easily find.

Trust me, even if you're a bit of a "couldn't boil an egg" type in the kitchen, you can nail this.

It's proper lush, and even the kids will love it.

This is one of those crockpot recipes slow cooker that you can actually leave alone. i mean, chuck it all in and go do your thing.

Plus, it uses a cheaper cut of beef, but it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. result!

Incredible Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli presentation

Ingredients You'll Need

Let’s talk ingredients. Here’s what you need for some proper Crockpot Beef goodness:

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cubed.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil.
  • Salt and pepper.
  • Broccoli florets.
  • Garlic and ginger.
  • Low-sodium soy sauce.
  • Beef broth.
  • Brown sugar.
  • Cornstarch.
  • Sesame oil.
  • Rice vinegar.
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Right then, let’s get cooking!

Right, let’s dive into what you'll need to whip up this belting crock pot beef and broccoli . honestly, it's easier than finding a decent parking spot in tesco's on a saturday.

We're talking minimal effort, maximum flavour! plus, it's one of those easy crockpot dinners that makes you feel like a kitchen whiz, even if you're more of a ready-meal kinda person.

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

So, for the star of the show, the beef, you'll want:

  • 900g (2 lbs) beef chuck roast. Cut it into 1-inch cubes.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil. This is only if you choose to sear, which I really, really recommend!
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Chuck roast is boss because it gets amazingly tender in the slow cooker. you want a good bit of marbling, that's the fat running through it, that melts down and keeps it moist.

Trust me, it makes all the difference.

Next up, for the green bits and the flavour bombs:

  • 4 cups (approx. 1 large head) broccoli florets
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch (2.5 cm) ginger, peeled and grated.

Broccoli should be a nice deep green, firm to the touch. If it's yellowing or floppy, give it a miss. Fresh ginger is miles better than powder, you want that zing!

And finally, the sauce that brings it all together:

  • 120ml (1/2 cup) low-sodium soy sauce.
  • 60ml (1/4 cup) beef broth.
  • 50g (1/4 cup) packed brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, but I like a little kick!)

Seasoning Notes

Soy sauce is the backbone here. using the low-sodium stuff is crucial, otherwise it can get a bit too salty, innit? brown sugar gives it that proper chinese takeaway sweetness.

The sesame oil, though, that's the magic touch.

Don't skip it! for a bit of a flavour boost, try adding a tiny pinch of ground white pepper. sounds weird, but it works.

If you're feeling adventurous, a dash of five-spice powder will make it amazing.

Equipment Needed

For this slow cooker dinner , you’ll need:

  • A 6-quart (5.7 litre) crock pot / slow cooker. This is non-negotiable.
  • A large skillet. Only if you're searing the beef.
  • Measuring cups and spoons.
  • A chopping board and knife.

If you don’t have a skillet, you could technically skip searing and just bung the beef straight into the crock pot beef .

But honestly, searing adds so much flavour. you could try browning it in a large saucepan instead, just make sure it's sturdy.

This crock pot beef and broccoli will become one of your favourite crockpot dishes .

Right, let's get this crock pot beef and broccoli show on the road! honestly, i love easy crockpot dinners and this one's a winner.

We're talking proper comfort food, but with minimal effort. who doesn't love that? this recipe uses a slow cooker to melt down the beef.

Prep: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

First things first, mise en place . It sounds fancy, but it just means getting everything ready.

  • Beef Prep: Chop your 2 lbs of chuck roast into 1-inch cubes. Nobody wants giant chunks!
  • Veggies: Get that broccoli sorted, about 4 cups of florets. Mince 2 cloves of garlic and grate about 1 inch of ginger.
  • Sauce: Mix 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup beef broth, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp cornstarch, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional!).
  • Safety reminder : Always wash your hands after handling raw meat!

Set It and Forget It: Crock Pot Magic

This is where the crockpot dishes magic happens!

  1. Sear the beef (optional, but seriously worth it!). Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan. Brown the beef. We want that lovely colour and flavour.
  2. Chuck the beef into your slow cooker . Add your garlic and ginger.
  3. Pour the sauce over the beef. Make sure it's all nicely coated.
  4. Cook on low for 7- 8 hours or high for 4- 6 hours . I usually go low while I'm at work.
  5. Add the broccoli in the last 30 minutes . You don't want mushy broccoli!
  6. Serve over rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if you're feeling fancy.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Crock Pot Game

Want to make your crock pot beef and broccoli even better? Listen up!

  • Sear it to Believe It: Honestly, searing the beef makes a massive difference. Don't skip it if you can.
  • Broccoli Timing is Key: Don't add the broccoli too early. Mushy broccoli is nobody's friend.
  • The secret sauce : if you like a little spice, add a dash of sriracha to the sauce. It gives it a real kick.
  • Common mistake : Using too much soy sauce. It can get really salty. Use low-sodium stuff!
  • This can be made ahead! You can cook the beef and sauce the day before, then just add the broccoli when you're ready to serve. I’ve tried other slow cooker recipes beef before, but this one's a keeper! Makes you feel great. It's so much easier than takeaway, plus you know exactly what's going into it.

This healthy crockpot recipe is a game-changer, right up there with jambalaya . it is one of the great crockpot recipes slow cooker , and is so simple.

Trust me, give it a go. you won't regret it. i hope it's delicious!. it is way easier than takeaway, and it is so much better.

Alright, let's dive into some notes about this incredible crock pot beef and broccoli . honestly, making easy crockpot dinners like this is my favourite way to cook.

Life's too short to spend hours slaving over a hot stove, you know?

Recipe Notes for the Best Crockpot Beef and Broccoli Ever

Serving Suggestions That'll Wow 'Em

Right, so plating this up is easy peasy. for a proper instagram-worthy moment, serve your crockpot beef and broccoli over a bed of fluffy rice.

A sprinkle of sesame seeds and some chopped green onions? chef's kiss! if you want sides, think along the lines of some crispy spring rolls or even a wee bit of jambalaya to spice things up.

A cold beer goes down a treat too, or even some iced green tea.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

So you've made a big batch of this crockpot beef . no worries! this reheats beautifully. pop any leftovers in an airtight container.

It'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. for longer storage, you can freeze it! just let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer bags.

It's good for about 2-3 months in the freezer. to reheat, either microwave it (covered) or gently heat it in a pan on the hob.

It's one of the best crockpot dishes for meal prep, honestly.

Variations on a Theme

Fancy a change? ditch the beef and use chicken! just swap the 2 lbs of beef with chicken thighs. reduce cooking time.

For a healthy crockpot option, load it up with more veggies! how about cauliflower? as far as dietary adaptations go, for gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

Let's get down to brass tacks: this recipe is packed with protein, thanks to the beef. broccoli brings vitamins and fibre to the table.

Just remember, it’s got roughly 350-450 calories per serving (depending on your beef choice). portion control is key, mind! it's not a magic potion, but it's one of those slow cooker dinner ideas that is actually good for you.

I reckon that covers the basics. give it a go, experiment, and let me know what you think! remember, slow cooker recipes beef are your friends on a busy weeknight.

This crockpot beef and broccoli is a winner. happy cooking!

Delicious Crockpot Beef And Broccoli: The Ultimate Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook it completely and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. It’s even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together, a bit like a proper Sunday roast left overs!

My sauce isn't as thick as I'd like. How can I thicken the Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli sauce?

No worries, a thin sauce is easily fixed! Whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The cornstarch will thicken the sauce right up, giving it that lovely, glossy finish you'd expect from a Chinese takeaway.

What if I don't have beef broth? Can I substitute something else in my crock pot beef and broccoli recipe?

Yes, you can definitely substitute the beef broth! Chicken broth or vegetable broth will work just fine. In a pinch, you could even use water mixed with a bouillon cube or a teaspoon of beef bouillon powder. Just be mindful of the salt content, especially if you're using regular soy sauce.

How do I store leftover Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll keep for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage (up to 2-3 months). When reheating frozen leftovers, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. It's nearly as good as the day you made it, like a proper "Bangers and Mash" reheated!

Can I use frozen broccoli in this Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Add it directly from frozen during the last 30 minutes of cooking, just like fresh broccoli. Be aware that frozen broccoli can release more water, which might result in a slightly thinner sauce. You may want to thicken the sauce using the cornstarch slurry method if this happens.

Is Crock Pot Beef and Broccoli healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?

This recipe can be part of a balanced diet, but portion control and ingredient choices are key. Using lean beef, low-sodium soy sauce, and brown rice can help make it a healthier option. Also, be mindful of the brown sugar content; you can reduce it if desired. It's a step up from a takeaway in terms of knowing what's in it, but it's not quite a salad, is it?

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