If you crave a meal that feels like home without the fuss, this slow cooker sweet teriyaki beef is a game-changer. With just three simple ingredients—beef, teriyaki sauce, and brown sugar—you can create a tender, flavorful dish that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of slow-cooked goodness. Perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends, it’s a hands-off recipe that lets you set it and forget it while going about your day.
Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Sweet Teriyaki Beef Strips
Servings: 6
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef sirloin or round steak, cut into 1-inch strips | 2 pounds |
| Bottled teriyaki sauce | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar, packed | 1/2 cup |
Instructions
- Trim any excess fat and slice the beef into 1-inch strips to ensure even cooking and prevent greasy sauce.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce and brown sugar until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Place the beef strips evenly in the bottom of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker.
- Pour the sweet teriyaki mixture over the beef, stirring gently to coat all the strips.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the beef is tender and easy to shred with a fork.
- Once cooked, stir everything well. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more teriyaki sauce for saltiness or a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.
- Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles, spooning extra sauce over the top. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently before serving.
Variations & Tips
For extra depth, brown the beef strips in a skillet with a touch of oil before slow cooking; it adds a rich, roasted flavor. Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a mild kick. Stretch the dish by stirring in a bag of frozen stir-fry vegetables during the last hour of cooking. For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the slow cooker during the final 20–30 minutes on HIGH. For a lighter version, use low-sodium teriyaki sauce and reduce brown sugar to 1/3 cup. Leftovers make a delicious filling for tortillas, baked potatoes, or rice bowls.
