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Slow Cooker Teriyaki Beef: A Sweet and Savory Comfort Classic


  • Author: Martha

Description

Nothing says comfort like a slow-cooked meal with rich flavors that deepen over hours. Teriyaki beef in the slow cooker is one of those dishes: it’s deeply savory, with a gentle sweetness from pineapple and honey that perfectly balances the salty soy sauce. This meal is ideal for busy days because the slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with fork-tender, juicy beef coated in a delicious, thickened sauce by dinnertime. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to meal prep, this Teriyaki Beef delivers.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast – The perfect cut for slow cooking, becoming tender and easy to shred.
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce – Adds that classic umami base to the sauce without being overly salty.
  • 1/4 cup honey – Naturally sweetens the sauce and caramelizes during cooking.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar – For a deeper sweetness that pairs well with the savory notes.
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice – Adds a slight tang and tenderizes the beef.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic brings warmth and depth to the dish.
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated – Complements the garlic and adds a bit of zing.
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar – Balances the sweet flavors with a hint of acidity.
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch + 1/4 cup water – Thickens the sauce to a luscious, pourable consistency.
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil – Enhances the flavor with a toasty nuttiness.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper – For subtle seasoning.
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish) – Adds a nice crunch and visual appeal.
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish) – Fresh and bright for a finishing touch.

Instructions

  • Prepare the Beef
    Cut the beef chuck roast into large, manageable chunks. Season with a light sprinkle of black pepper. This will help infuse a bit of extra flavor into the beef before slow cooking.
  • Make the Teriyaki Sauce
    In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Make sure everything is well-combined; this flavorful mixture will become the sauce that tenderizes and flavors the beef as it cooks.
  • Set Up the Slow Cooker
    Place the beef chunks in the slow cooker. Pour the teriyaki sauce evenly over the beef, ensuring it’s all covered. Cover the slow cooker with the lid, set it to low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The low-and-slow method is ideal for the most tender results, but the high setting will also produce excellent results if you’re short on time.
  • Thicken the Sauce
    About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth, forming a slurry. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and stir gently. This will thicken the sauce as it continues to cook, transforming it into a rich, glossy coating for the beef.
  • Shred and Serve
    Once the beef is tender enough to shred with a fork, use two forks to pull the beef apart directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded beef into the thickened sauce until it’s all nicely coated. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
  • Serve It Up
    Spoon the Teriyaki Beef over fluffy white rice or noodles, and consider adding a side of steamed broccoli or stir-fried veggies to round out the meal.

Notes

  • Serving Suggestions: Try serving this teriyaki beef over a bed of rice or noodles for a filling meal, or make it into a teriyaki beef bowl with cooked quinoa and stir-fried veggies.
  • Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Using a low-sodium soy sauce is recommended, as it prevents the dish from becoming overly salty after slow cooking.