Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Honey Garlic Beef is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a no-fuss meal. The combination of tender beef, sweet honey, savory garlic, and soy sauce creates an irresistible sauce that infuses every bite with flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you can let the slow cooker do all the work for you.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast (cut into large chunks)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Place the beef chuck roast chunks in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Pour the honey garlic mixture over the beef, making sure all the pieces are coated evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and easily falls apart with a fork.
- Stir the beef occasionally if possible to ensure even cooking and that all pieces are coated in the sauce.
Step 3: Shred and Serve
- Once the beef is tender, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker.
- Stir the shredded beef to ensure it is evenly coated with the honey garlic sauce.
- Serve the honey garlic beef over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside your favorite vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Beef Cut: Chuck roast is recommended for its tenderness after slow cooking, but you can also use brisket or stewing beef if preferred.
- Soy Sauce: Using low sodium soy sauce is recommended to keep the dish from being too salty. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor, but you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.
Variations
Spicy Honey Garlic Beef
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or 1 tablespoon of Sriracha to the honey garlic mixture for a spicy kick that balances well with the sweetness of the honey.
Honey Garlic Beef with Vegetables
- Add sliced bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to the slow cooker during the last 1-2 hours of cooking for a complete meal with vegetables included.
Ginger Honey Garlic Beef
- Add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger to the honey garlic mixture for a slightly different flavor profile that adds warmth and complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Yes, you can use other types of meat, such as pork shoulder or even chicken thighs, for this recipe. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the cut and type of meat used.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover honey garlic beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Honey Garlic Beef?
Yes, this beef freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Honey Garlic Beef is a delicious, easy meal that requires minimal prep and delivers big flavor. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements the tender beef. Serve it over rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy. Try adding vegetables or spices to customize it to your taste and enjoy this comforting, simple dish.
Happy cooking, and enjoy every tender, flavorful bite of this Honey Garlic Beef!