There’s nothing better than a hearty meal that practically makes itself.

This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Beef is tender, saucy, and packed with flavor, simmered low and slow until melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

It’s an easy dinner recipe that feels like takeout but made right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beef cooks until fork-tender, soaking up all the sweet and savory teriyaki flavors.

It’s a true set-it-and-forget-it meal—your slow cooker does all the work.

The sauce thickens into a glossy glaze that clings to every bite.

It pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Beef stew meat works best here—it becomes tender after hours of slow cooking.

Soy sauce brings the savory umami backbone of the dish.

Brown sugar and white sugar balance with sweetness for a classic teriyaki glaze.

Cider vinegar adds brightness to cut through the richness.

Garlic and ginger paste provide warmth and depth of flavor.

Cornstarch slurry ensures the sauce becomes thick and glossy.

Green onions and sesame seeds make the perfect garnish.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Trim excess fat from stew meat for the best texture.

Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry—it’s what turns the sauce into that irresistible glaze.

For deeper flavor, sear the beef in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker.

If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the white sugar by a couple tablespoons.

How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Beef

Step 1 – Prepare the sauce

In your slow cooker, whisk together white sugar, brown sugar, soy sauce, cider vinegar, garlic, ginger paste, and black pepper.

Step 2 – Add the beef

Stir in the stew meat, making sure all pieces are coated in the sauce.

Step 3 – Cook until tender

Cover and cook on high for 4–5 hours, checking for doneness with about an hour left.

Step 4 – Thicken the sauce

Whisk together cornstarch and water in a small bowl.

Stir this slurry into the slow cooker, then continue cooking until the sauce thickens and the beef is tender.

Step 5 – Garnish and serve

Serve over rice, sprinkle with green onion and sesame seeds, and enjoy.

What to Serve It With

Steamed jasmine or brown rice is a classic pairing.

Try it with lo mein or udon noodles for an Asian-inspired twist.

Serve with stir-fried veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for balance.

Variations / Substitutions

Swap beef stew meat for thinly sliced flank steak or short ribs.

Use honey instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness.

Make it spicy with chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.

Sub rice vinegar for cider vinegar if that’s what you have.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this on low heat instead of high?
Yes, cook on low for 7–8 hours until the beef is tender.

Do I need to brown the beef first?
It’s optional—browning adds flavor but isn’t required.

What kind of beef should I use?
Beef stew meat works best, but chuck roast cut into cubes also works well.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure you use a large enough slow cooker.

How do I make it less sweet?
Cut the sugar by 2–3 tablespoons or use low-sodium soy sauce to balance.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be swapped in—just adjust cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Beef is the perfect mix of convenience and comfort.

It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Once you try it, it’ll quickly become part of your regular rotation.