Are you ready to impress your family with a delicious meal that cooks itself? My Slow Cooker Teriyaki Beef & Broccoli is packed with flavor and easy to make. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a sweet teriyaki sauce, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s perfect for busy days! Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this flavorful delight.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
Aromatics and Seasonings
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Additional Components
– 4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– Sesame seeds for garnish
– Cooked rice for serving
When I cook, I always start with quality ingredients. For this dish, beef chuck shines through. This cut is juicy and tender when cooked slowly. The soy sauce adds a salty kick, while honey brings sweetness. Rice vinegar balances the flavors perfectly.
Aromatics like ginger and garlic give depth. Minced ginger adds warmth, while garlic gives a strong flavor. Sesame oil introduces a nutty taste, and red pepper flakes can spice things up.
Broccoli adds a fresh crunch to this dish. It’s nice to use fresh, but frozen works too. Cornstarch thickens the sauce, giving it the right texture. Water helps mix it in smoothly.
Don’t forget sesame seeds for garnish! They add a lovely crunch. Serve everything over warm rice. This meal is both hearty and packed with flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Teriyaki Sauce
To start, grab a medium bowl. Whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. This sauce is the heart of your dish. It adds sweet and savory notes that make the beef shine.
Prepare the Beef
Next, take your cubed beef chuck and place it in the slow cooker. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the beef. Make sure each piece is well-coated. This step ensures that the beef absorbs all those tasty flavors as it cooks.
Cooking Process
Now it’s time to cook. Cover the slow cooker with its lid. You can choose to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. Either way, the beef will become tender and juicy.
Adding the Broccoli
About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker. Gently stir them in with the beef. This allows the broccoli to soak up some of that delicious teriyaki sauce while keeping its bright color.
Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a smooth slurry. Add this mixture to the slow cooker about 15 minutes before the dish is done. This step will thicken the sauce, making it rich and perfect for serving.
Serve and Garnish
Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to serve. Spoon the tender beef and broccoli over warm cooked rice. Don’t forget to garnish each bowl with sesame seeds. They add a nice crunch and look great on the plate.
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
When making teriyaki beef, the best cut of meat is beef chuck. It has enough fat, which makes it tender. Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes. This size helps it cook evenly. You can also use brisket or round, but chuck is my top choice for flavor and tenderness.
Perfecting the Teriyaki Flavor
To get the best teriyaki taste, balance the sweetness and tang. You can add more honey for sweetness. If you prefer a tangy flavor, increase the rice vinegar. Taste the sauce as you mix. Adjust it until you find your perfect blend. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick, too!
Cooking Broccoli to Perfection
Broccoli should stay bright and crispy. Add it to the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving. This timing helps the broccoli cook without becoming mushy. Stir it gently with the beef to mix the flavors. For extra color, you can use fresh broccoli florets instead of frozen. This keeps it vibrant and appealing.

Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can swap beef for chicken or tofu. Chicken thighs work well for a juicy bite. Simply cut them into pieces and follow the same steps. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm tofu. Press it to remove extra water, then cut it into cubes. Add the tofu to the slow cooker with the sauce. It will soak up the flavors nicely.
Vegetable Add-ins
While broccoli is a star, you can add other veggies too. Carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas pair great with teriyaki. Slice them thin for quick cooking. Add these vegetables about 30 minutes before the dish is done. This keeps them bright and crunchy.
Gluten-Free Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari as a soy sauce substitute. It has a similar taste without gluten. For thickening, arrowroot powder works instead of cornstarch. Mix it with water just like you would with cornstarch. This keeps the sauce thick and rich, just like you want!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To store leftovers safely, let the teriyaki beef and broccoli cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly. Store in the fridge for up to four days. When you are ready to eat, check for any signs of spoilage before reheating.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your teriyaki beef and broccoli, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to three months. For best results, label the container with the date. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Recommendations
Reheat the teriyaki beef and broccoli on the stove or in the microwave. If using the stove, warm it over medium heat in a pan. Stir often to keep it from burning. If you use the microwave, heat it in short bursts. Stir between intervals to ensure even warming. Add a splash of water if it looks too dry. This keeps the flavor and texture just right.
FAQs
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, use red pepper flakes. You can add one or two teaspoons based on your taste. If you want more spice, try fresh sliced chili peppers. You could also add a dash of hot sauce to the teriyaki sauce. Start with a small amount and taste as you mix. This way, you can control the spice level just right for you.
Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef. Just remember to thaw it first. This helps the meat cook evenly. Slow cooking frozen beef may take longer. It can lead to uneven cooking. Thawing ensures the beef absorbs all the teriyaki flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it from frozen. Just adjust the time. Cook on high for 4 to 5 hours instead.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Teriyaki Beef & Broccoli?
This dish pairs well with cooked rice. You can use either white or brown rice. For a twist, try serving it with noodles. A simple green salad also complements the flavors. You might like steamed dumplings as a side too. Just keep your sides light. This way, the teriyaki flavor shines through.
This recipe for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Beef & Broccoli is simple and delicious. We covered main ingredients, aromatic seasonings, and the cooking steps to make this dish shine. You learned tips to choose the best beef and adjust flavors. Also, we explored variations and smart storage methods.
Now it’s time to enjoy your tasty meal and impress family or friends. With these tips, you can make a dish that everyone will love!
