If you’re craving a delicious and easy dinner, look no further than this Crockpot Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry. This comforting dish combines tender beef with fresh broccoli, all infused with a savory soy sauce stir fry marinade. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. The slow cooking process not only makes the beef incredibly tender but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that is rich in taste and satisfying in every bite.

Ingredients

• For the beef:
  • 2 pounds flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain; this cut ensures that the beef remains tender and juicy once cooked.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch, which helps to thicken the sauce and coat the beef for better flavor absorption.
  • Salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• For the stir fry marinade:
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (use gluten-free soy sauce for gluten-free option); this forms the base of the marinade, giving a savory umami flavor.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar or honey, adding a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, providing acidity that brightens the overall flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced, which adds a fragrant aroma and depth to the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced, contributing a warm spice and additional complexity.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil, imparting a nutty flavor that enhances the stir fry experience.
• For the vegetables:
  • 4 cups broccoli florets, rich in vitamins and minerals, adding a vibrant green color to your dish.
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional); this can introduce a sweet crunch and a pop of color.
  • 1 cup carrots, sliced thinly, adding natural sweetness and a lovely texture contrast.
• For garnish:
  • Sesame seeds, which add a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness when sprinkled on top.
  • Green onions, sliced, for a fresh, sharp flavor that complements the rich ingredients.

Steps / Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the sliced flank steak with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix until the beef is evenly coated; this step ensures that the beef will not only be flavorful but also tender as it cooks.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to create the soy sauce stir fry marinade. This mixture should be smooth and well-combined, ensuring that all flavors are present.
3. Add the coated beef to the crockpot and pour the marinade over the top. Stir gently to ensure the beef is well-covered; this ensures every piece is infused with the marinade’s flavor.
4. Layer the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots on top of the beef in the crockpot. Do not stir; this helps maintain the texture of the vegetables and allows them to steam perfectly while cooking.
5. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked but not mushy. The cooking time may vary depending on your crockpot model, so check for doneness before serving.
6. Once cooked, stir the mixture gently to combine the flavors before serving, allowing the marinade to coat the vegetables and beef evenly for maximum flavor.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an added crunch, enhancing both the presentation and taste of the dish.

Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best results with your Crockpot Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry, consider these expert tips: You can learn more about this topic.

• Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality flank steak for the best flavor and tenderness. Look for well-marbled cuts, as this will produce the most flavorful and succulent beef.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the marinade in advance and marinate the beef overnight to deepen the flavor. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly, resulting in a richer taste.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave; avoid overheating to maintain texture.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the vegetables; they should retain some crispness. Adding them later in the cooking process can also help, or you can blanch them before mixing in.
• Pro Technique: For an extra layer of flavor, consider searing the beef in a hot skillet for a few minutes before adding it to the crockpot. This caramelization adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Variations

This recipe is versatile, allowing for many creative variations. Some ideas include: Check out our related guide for more tips.

• Vegan Option: Substitute beef with tofu or tempeh and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Ensure you press tofu to eliminate excess moisture before cooking.
• Different Vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables such as snap peas, bell peppers, or zucchini for a rainbow of flavors. Each vegetable adds unique textures and tastes to the dish.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or noodles to keep it low-carb. This option is not only healthier but also adds a nice texture to the meal.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Crockpot Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry, consider these serving ideas:

• Pair with fluffy white rice or brown rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
• Serve alongside a fresh cucumber salad or steamed rice for a balanced plate. The freshness of the salad contrasts nicely with the savory stir fry.
• For a complete Asian-inspired meal, offer dumplings or egg rolls as appetizers. These can complement the flavors of the stir fry and create a fun dining experience.

Print

Crockpot Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Recipe by Laila

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: Asian Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

− 4-6 +

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

8 hr

🔥

Calories

—

If you’re craving a delicious and easy dinner, look no further than this Crockpot Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry. This comforting dish combines tender beef with fresh broccoli, all infused with a savory soy sauce stir fry marinade.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 2 pounds flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar or honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)
• 1 cup carrots, sliced thinly
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Green onions, sliced for garnish

Directions

1.

In a bowl, combine the sliced flank steak with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Mix until the beef is evenly coated.

2.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to create the marinade.

3.

Add the coated beef to the crockpot and pour the marinade over the top. Stir gently.

4.

Layer the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots on top of the beef in the crockpot. Do not stir.

5.

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked but not mushy.

6.

Once cooked, stir the mixture gently to combine the flavors before serving.

7.

Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.