We skipped takeout and made this recipe instead, and it did not disappoint!

There's something magical about coming home to the smell of dinner already cooked - it's like the culinary equivalent of a warm hug! That's where my Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli steps into the spotlight. This dish is inspired by the traditional Chinese stir-fry that many of us order when we're craving takeout. But let's be real, life's hustle doesn't always allow for the leisure of whipping up stir-fry on a whim. So why not make this delightful combo of tender beef and vibrant broccoli at home with the convenience of a slow cooker? It's a weeknight lifesaver, packed with flavor, and let me tell you, your slow cooker is about to earn its keep!

I love serving this Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli over a bed of fluffy white rice – it's classic and always hits the spot. But, for those looking to keep it low carb, it's just as delish over cauliflower rice or even zucchini noodles for a veggie-packed twist. And if you're feeling extra, toss a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top with a few sliced green onions for that restaurant-finish flair.

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 1 1/2 pounds beef chuck roast, sliced into thin strips
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Optional garnish: toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions

Directions:

1. Place your thinly sliced beef in the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil until well combined. Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.

3. Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours, or until the beef is cooked through and tender.

4. About 30 minutes before serving, whisk together cornstarch and water in a small bowl until the cornstarch is dissolved. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker to help thicken the sauce.

5. Add the broccoli florets on top of the beef and sauce. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on low, or until the broccoli is cooked to your preferred tenderness.

6. Serve over white rice and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

Variations & Tips:

- Time-Saving Tip: Use frozen broccoli florets to skip the chopping, and add them right into the slow cooker.

- Sweetness Adjustments: If you like it a tad sweeter, feel free to adjust the brown sugar to taste. Conversely, for a less sweet version, start with less sugar and add more if it's needed.

- Protein Variations: Although I prefer beef chuck roast for its tenderness, you can also use flank steak or even pre-cut stir-fry beef to save some prep time.

- Spice it Up: A drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a lovely warm zing to the dish for those who like a bit of heat.

- Veggies Galore: Not a broccoli fan? Swap it out for snap peas, bell peppers, or baby carrots for an equally scrumptious veggie experience.

Nothing wins the evening like a thought-out meal that practically cooked itself while you were conquering the day. This Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli is a testament to set-it-and-forget-it magic, perfect for anyone wanting to dine well amidst a busy schedule. Now, go ahead, and relish the extra time you've just reclaimed!