Slow Cooker Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli
A Flavor-Packed Asian-Inspired Dinner Made Easy
This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dinner. Tender slices of slow-cooked beef soak up a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce, and fresh broccoli florets are added at the end for the perfect touch of crunch. Whether served over fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or noodles, this dish is always a family favorite.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total Time: Approx. 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Course: Dinner, Main
Ingredients
- 3 lb beef chuck roast, thinly sliced (or use flank steak, top sirloin, or skirt steak)
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
Instructions
- Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Set aside. - Layer the Beef:
Slice the chuck roast into thin strips and place them into the bottom of your slow cooker. - Combine:
Pour the teriyaki sauce over the beef. Add the minced garlic and gently mix to coat all the meat evenly. - Slow Cook:
- Low setting: Cook for 6–8 hours
- High setting: Cook for 3–4 hours
Until the beef is tender and flavorful.
- Thicken the Sauce:
About 30 minutes before serving, mix 6 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of water or some of the cooking liquid to make a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker, turn the heat to high if not already, and let it cook uncovered for 30 minutes until the sauce thickens. - Add Broccoli:
Stir in the broccoli florets during the final 20–30 minutes of cooking. Cover and continue cooking until the broccoli is crisp-tender (or longer if you prefer it softer). - Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon the beef and broccoli over your choice of white rice, mashed potatoes, or cooked noodles for a complete, comforting meal.
Tips and Variations
- Alternative Proteins: This recipe also works well with chicken thighs or tofu if you’re looking for a variation.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Bell peppers, snap peas, or water chestnuts make great additions.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
- Prep Ahead: You can slice the beef and mix the sauce the night before to save time in the morning.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 591 kcal
- Protein: 29 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Sugar: 11 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 737 mg
(Nutrition may vary based on exact ingredients and serving size.)
This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli is not only deeply flavorful and hearty but also surprisingly easy to pull off. It’s perfect for busy weekdays, lazy Sundays, or any time you crave a satisfying homemade meal without hovering over the stove.